In The Heart of Hartford House

Mel Martin – Cafe Couch

Living on a farm myself, I love that ‘country feeling’. The no rush, fast way of city life… it calms you. Like no worries in the World!

We were greeted by the GM, Maretha Langenhoven who doesn’t stop smiling and we went straight to the Hartford House breakfast area… and again just stunning. The last time I was here, was about 14 years ago and I can see a huge change to the Estate and House. When entering Hartford House it seems brighter and more open. The furnishings are beautiful and elegant. You immediately get a warm feeling. Fresh Flowers in most of the rooms, and the staff are happy and friendly.

I think if I had taken a book I would have spent the day on the veranda reading and taking in the beauty of this venue! Breakfast was first on the agenda, and I got to meet their Chef Mathew Armbruster. Mathew is young and talented and already changed the menu offering amazing cuisine. Nothing is a problem, as I heard him designing a vegan menu for a guest! (That’s Service!)

Breakfast for me was the Salmon and I could not fault the dish… it was light and the flavours amazing! Who would have thought peas and egg could gel! After breakfast Maretha and I wondered around the gardens. Even though it is Winter and most of the trees are brown or bare, the gardens just remind me of the book I read as a kid “The Secret Garden”. In Spring/Summer it must be breathtaking!

They do have a Spa on the Estate. I would say though that I feel it should be available for last minute bookings, I did once phone about a Couple’s Massage included in our Lunch but no one was available. If you are like me, and were spending a weekend at this amazing Estate, there are always those days you just wake up and feel like a spoil, a massage is always on my list! Send the men and kids out to visit the Paddocks while you get pampered! (Heaven.)

The Spa is situated opposite the pool which makes it more inviting… Book Club Ladies, it is a MUST!! I also heard but didn’t go see it, a self-catering house on the property that sleeps 8 – imagine a Country Weekend away with the girls or friends! (Regarding the Spa, they suggest when you phone to book a lunch or weekend ,inquire or make a booking then to confirm).

I visited the Tea House (Tijnhuis) which seats 30 and is surrounded by a gorgeous garden of ponds, fish and Flowers, it really is beautiful. Afternoon Tea’s or small functions would be stunning here in the glass Tea House!

Weddings – Well if you want luxury and beauty then Hartford House offers it all! From a quaint chapel to a breath-taking reception area, and dining in style… you will not go wrong! Every bride’s dream venue. After the tour Maretha and I chatted some more, and I learnt that in the future we could be spending a lot more time here… and sharing this venue with you. Look out for their Wine-Tasting, High Teas and Ladies Lunches in the future!

I look forward to sharing more about Hartford House and please if you visit, email me your thoughts and pictures.

Thanks Maretha and Hartford House for having us, we will be back and knowing that you have changed your policy and children are allowed is a bonus for us being all about family #MartinFamdamily #Martinfamdamilytravel

In the Heart of Hartford House – Cafe Couch