Franschhoek6th March 202216th August 2022

Loft Mini Breaks at Rickety Bridge’s Basse Provence

“Ahhhh! Is this not so joyful? Delicious cheese, sweet figs, cold meats, fresh fruits and *clink* a glass of Rickety Bridge Chardonnay; pure bliss!” The dripping ice bucket is no match for the anticipation I have when entering the pool in the 35 degree day. The hot wind, passing over the land, has increased the need for a late afternoon swim and the pond-shaped pool at Basse Provence couldn’t be more enticing.

A little spout feeds water into the circular pool via a small, gable-shaped wall. Surrounded by greenery, the slurping sounds of the creepy crawly and the hot summer sun moving towards the mountain side, it’s quiet and peaceful, just what we need for a weekend away from the city.

Basse Provence is Rickety Bridge’s sister accommodation just 3 km’s away on the esteemed estate (even closer if you drive through the farm). The property is housed in two old farm houses, both inspired by Cape Dutch architecture, and allows guests access to the main tasting room and their services (hence how we ordered our cheese boards).

We stayed in the Elizabeth room, which begun by entering via a rather short door! The classic beams and thatched roof of the Cape Dutch style house immediately drew our eyes upwards, with light spilling into the room by sky light and a secondary doory. Proteas inspired fresh linen and artwork reinforced the heritage and proudly South African nature of Rickety Bridge, while a corner bath, shower and en suite bathroom provided the luxury one needs to feel far from home.

Surprisingly, the room was very well sealed. With an extra door, I had anticipated a lot of noise from the summer winds of the Western Cape, but this was not the case. Passing traffic on the main road can be heard, but not to a level where it interferes with your stay. The room was very cosy (with aircon and soft carpets) allowing us to sleep very well and enjoy our time in the lofty suite.

In the morning, we tottered over to the neighbouring Cape Dutch style house for breakfast. Guests are welcome to sit indoors or on the porch; we opted for the latter since the wind had died down and the blue skies were too beautiful to resist. A simple, but sufficient menu, we opted for an English breakfast which is also served with fresh juice and muffins, cheese and butter as a “starter” course.

The 4 star, Basse Provence ha 6 rooms split over 2 hours and would be an excellent location to rent out as a whole for a family wedding or guest weekend away. There are on-site braai facilities, which can only be used if the house is booked out exclusively.

Imaging having a late afternoon braai in the warm air, swimming in the pool while indulging in delicious Rickety Bridge wine. Views from the porch towards the Franschhoek hills offers indoor-outdoor experience – the perfect version of a South African holiday when guests have a little more time to spare.