DeKraal Country Lodge has amazing gardens and is set in the beautiful countryside just outside Stellenbosch. We stayed for 2 nights and liked it a lot but the accommodation was slightly strange. We had a decent sized and comfortable lounge and kitchen area with a bedroom upstairs slightly on the small side but the downside was the bathroom which was downstairs and felt like it was in the basement! The other unfortunate thing which the lodge can obviously do nothing about is the road. DeKraal Country Lodge is off the main Stellenbosch to Franschhoek road and it is VERY noisey. Having said that we would still recommend this place. The staff are frendly and helpful, hot breakfasts are cooked to order and the location is brilliant for visiting the wine estates and Stellenbosch itself.

DeKraal is one of those rare places where one generally gets more than expected. Stunning surroundings with beautiful gardens. Hearty breakfast served until 10:30. Buildings architecturally pleasing, with such European details as double glazed windows (a rarity for South Africa) and classy accent lighting throughout the unit. Furnishings and interior design also pleasing and upmarket.

Minus points (not all that serious, but improving these aspects could make a meaningful difference to improve an already very pleasant stay):

- No bath in the Lemon Tree unit where I stayed, although the bathroom is otherwise very well equipped (incl washing machine and tumble dryer).
- Bedding seemed inadequate for the time of year with only a very thin duvet supplied. At my request three throws were supplied, which were very heavy but not really warm. I ended up sleeping the first night with the air-con set at a high temperature. The next day a much more substantial duvet was supplied, although for a single bed, while my bedroom contained a double bed.
- The satellite TV was a budget setup with very few channels, which seems to be the norm in SA for this type of establishment, but nevertheless a nuisance.
- WiFi internet is limited to 50Mb which did not last me very long during my 3 day stay.
- The kitchen in this self catering unit seemed to lack a number of items, among others a dry rack for dishes, dish cloths, etc. At my request dish cloths were supplied.

We stayed for 2 nights. Excellent room and the grounds are wonderful. Fabulous views or the surrounding mountains and a very relaxing stay.
All the staff were very helpfull and reception organised an excellent wine tour for us.
Would love to go back.

Stayed for two nights with a friend, and each had our own one bedroom suite, both of which had been very tastefully refurbished. (I believe we were the first guests to occupy the rooms since they were done up). The new owner and his wife were very welcoming, and it is clear that they are making huge efforts to make sure that high standards are met and guests made to feel very welcome. Our very spacious rooms were absolutely gorgeous, and furnished very much in keeping with African style and the surroundings, and very comfortable beds.

The gardens are an absolute delight to walk through. It is a fairly steep climb to the top, but well worth the effort for the magnificent view of the surrounding mountains. There are ponds, water features, gazebos, swing seats, a swing bridge, beautiful tennis court and restful pool area, all beautifully situated.

Breakfast was very good, and on the second morning cooked to order.

Speaking to the new owner, it is clear he is working very hard to ensure that de Kraal will maintain very high standards, and I am sure future reviews will reflect his hard efforts.

Next door is Hillcrest Berry Orchards & tea shop, which should not be missed. For a luxury dining experience amid spectacular views and eclectic artwork, nearby Delaire is simply perfect.

Would love to have stayed longer.