CLEOPATRA MOUNTAIN FARMHOUSE | THE PERFECT MOUNTAIN GETAWAY

Ever thought of going on a romantic gourmet getaway? Finding a beautiful hotel is one thing, but being able to combine that with outstanding food is most certainly a rare find. Cleopatra is a charming mountain farmhouse nestled in the beautiful Kamberg Mountains in Kwa-Zulu Natal. This past weekend, we had the absolute pleasure of staying in the most romantic setting surrounded by the countryside, eating phenomenal french inspired cuisine and spending much needed quality time out of the city.

Upon our arrival we were greeted personally by name by the most friendly staff, who welcomed us to our suite, which in fact was an entire cottage and the original farmhouse. In our cottage we had two lounges, a dining area as well as a spacious bedroom with a beautiful country styled en suite bathroom. The entire hotel is of course country inspired but the attention to detail that the hotel has put into every room is gorgeous. It is a cozy environment and a place that makes you not want to leave at all.

A unique and beautiful trait about Cleopatra is the attention to detail and intimacy the hotel provides its guests. Not only is Richard Poynton the owner of Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse, he is the man behind the amazing food that is served at the hotel. The evening of our arrival we enjoyed a phenomenal 5 course dinner inspired by Richard's love for french cuisine, along with our choice of wine from a extremely well stocked wine cellar. Not only is the food and wine delicious, the experience of the dinner is educational as well. The staff know every wine and the history that goes with it. Each dish that is served is explained in detail, making the experience as a whole one to remember.

The following morning Marc and I decided to go for an hour hike around the farm in an attempt to burn off the night before's dinner.

Over indulging is an understatement, but most certainly worth the calories. After our hike we enjoyed a beautiful set up farm style breakfast buffet as well as a three course breakfast consisting of fruit, eggs Benedict and smoked haddock which was outstanding. There is plenty activities to do at the Cleopatra other than just indulging in divine food. The hotel has recently opened it's own spa called Copper Pot, which I think is a great additional treat for guests. One can go hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing and horse back riding in the area. A breakfast picnic hike is also offered to guests who want a bit of a change of scenery.