Grand Roche, in the heart of Western Cape’s Paarl, is a 5 star luxury hotel favorited by world travellers and locals alike. With many residents choosing the historical monument as a wedding venue, Grand Roche is also popular for mini-breaks, for enjoying a special occasion meal or as a trusted holiday destination for visitors.
With it’s old world charm, coupled with first class service, the Grand Roche is one of Paarl’s most well-known wineland destinations.
After Hours at Grand Roche
The Terrace Suites are grouped together in sections of three and scattered around the farm. Our suite overlooks a lush vineyard, sloping towards the expansive Paarl Valley. Considering the hotels close proximity to town, it’s remarkably quiet for its central location.
Entering the shadow of Skaamrose, a break in the afternoon heat of the Boland district, we were kindly shown our room’s amenities by our hostess.
One of 18 Terrace Suites, the cottage includes a king-sized bed (and free little Sudoku puzzle pamphlet, which I loved completing before bed), a stand alone bathroom with shower, bath & his/her sinks as well as small lounge with television, punchy Protea lined wall paper and complimentary tea, coffee, biscuits and a bottle of wine.
Having taken a moment to listen to the sounds of the birds and the bugs, we decided to delay our dinner time in exchange for more audio bliss. What were we doing exactly? Nothing. Simply listening. So often we have ambitious plans to wrap up a few hours of work while away, but once the soundtrack of nature begins to play it’s very difficult to find the motivation to put our work hats on and continue grinding away. This is South Africa’s hidden weapon – the integration of nature in beautiful locations.
Dinner for Two
Having known there’s a restaurant at Grand Roche, we weren’t up to speed with the new chef. This resulted in the meal far exceeding our expectations! After the amuse bouche looked suspiciously well constructed, the first course (terrine) hinted at some serious skills. This motivated a quick Google search, only to discover this quote from late 2022:
“Chef Kevin’s impressive resume includes running the kitchen at Jan-Hendrik van der Westhuizen’s Michelin starred JAN in Nice, France; Head Chef position at Delaire Graff outside Stellenbosch and a stint at Le Petit Manoir restaurant and guest house in Franschhoek, amongst others.”
Restaurants.co.za
That would explain why I could practically see my face in the sheen of the exquisite main course jus! My husband had the plain steak dish, while I had the pork belly and corn 4 ways (puree, baby corn, grilled corn off the cob and corn puree). The combination of sweet, smooth corn offset with Asian flavour, crackling and jus, the dish was delicious.
A Night’s Rest & Morning Smile
Returning to our room down the still garden path, the immaculately clean bathroom satisfied my attention for detail. While the lounge offered an easy spot to relax in front of TV before bed time (with a small bouquet of channels), it was the blackout curtains, a large bed with soft linen and air conditioning that ensured a flawless night’s sleep. Paarl can be exceptionally warm so aircon is a must.
While we went to bed reasonably early, it was only the thought of missing breakfast that disrupted our rest. Breakfast is small, yet adequate; served on the porch overlooking the Grand Roche Hotels’ manicured gardens. As a five star hotel, they do have gluten-free options and are happy to cater to any other dietary requirements (preferably noted on check in so that the kitchen can prep).
Old World Luxury
We met some interesting world travellers during our stay at Grand Roche Hotel. Swallows who consistently stay at the hotel due to its high quality service and food, quiet surroundings, easy access to golf estates in the wine district and conservative environment.
Grand Roche Hotel caters to couples who are looking to relax and explore the vine speckled estate, spa, rely on excellent food in-house, smoker’s lounge and bar area, as well as young families who make use of the large outdoor pool and easy access to town. The rooms are located across the property, which means each visitor can enjoy a room most suited to their needs.
Direct Booking Special
With so many accommodation sites available, Grand Roche Hotel is offering a special bundle for those who book directly on their website. This includes:
- Complimentary Bottle of Wine
- Complimentary Room Upgrade *subject to availability
- 5% Discount on any treatment **if requested during reservation process
- Order a three or four course meal from our Chef’s Menu, and receive an additional course from Chef Kevin at no additional cost **if requested during reservation process
