Arriving in Swellendam as part of a Garden Route road-trip is like turning back the clock: the pace slows down, the streets broaden and Schoone Oordt Country House stands like a bastion of good taste and gracious living. A large Victorian home, it has been thoroughly refurbished to add modern necessities like underfloor heating, a swimming pool and Wi-Fi while losing nothing of its past grandeur. Fountains, wrought-iron ‘broekie lace’ and a fragrant rose garden complete the picture.

Couples, honeymooners and small families all have suitable accommodation options in either the original manor house or coach house. The airy Conservatory is the perfect place to savour meals, with the chef widely considered to be the best in town.