The Farmhouse at Mission Estate

The lockbox made check-in easy, and we liked being left in peace on our holiday. Marine parade is a short drive away, with plenty of shopping nearby. We had no trouble with the free wifi, and the TV picture was very clear. You can sign in to Netflix or another streaming service, though we weren’t there to spend our time watching TV. We came with my adult children and all loved the place. The scenery outside added a lot to the atmosphere, and my kids went up the hill behind the Mission estate restaurant to catch the sunrise. The rooms are nicely equipped, each with an ensuite and a few carefully chosen toiletries. The kitchen had plenty of basics, including a coffee machine and pods. There are separate bins for sorting rubbish, which is a great sustainable touch. I didn’t try the hot tub, but my daughters said it was lovely and hot. It’s tucked into a discreet spot. There’s also a gas fireplace, with a wall switch to its right, controls on the left side, or a remote.

A tidy, modern house with a great outdoor area, in a lovely spot. The Mission restaurant is an easy short walk away, and it’s divine too. We loved the fireplace and spa in winter, and will definitely try the place in summer.

The spa was A+++, and the tech was great too. Fast wifi, plus a Bluetooth entertainment centre that I connected to for my own music. This was a business trip, and I regretted that my wife couldn’t join me. I picked “Couples” for the stay. It feels like a luxurious little escape on the edge of Taradale, so don’t come alone unless you want your partner to be in trouble with you. There are three well-appointed bedrooms, each with an ensuite, which would suit couples travelling together or a family.

Very neat and clean, with a lovely vineyard view. Still, I don’t think the stay is worth the price.