Blouberg Manor

The pool was dirty, there was no hot water, and the TV didn't work. There was only one towel in the room for two people.

The beds were comfortable, and it's a lovely building close to the beach. But our family room was dated, and we were only given two towels. The bathroom door wouldn't close, as if it had swollen and no longer fit the frame. The bathroom itself was in a sad state, with mould on the ceiling and in the grout, and the shower was terrible. Cars parked right outside our window, so every time one started, it sounded as if it were in the room with us. I can see why some reviewers love the place, so maybe it depends on the room. We didn't have breakfast or use the pool, so perhaps those are wonderful. Still, it was marketed as a luxury boutique hotel, while it felt more like a hostel to us. It was okay overall, but poor value for money.

The room itself is comfortable, but there’s plenty that could be improved. Doors kept opening and closing all night, and the hallway echo made the noise carry. On top of that, the next-door guest smoked a lot of weed, leaving the place reeking. It made us want to pack up and leave, and not return.

Linda is a wonderful, hands-on host, and her staff are great too. The outside area is spacious, with a sparkling clean pool and a braai spot. Inside, there’s a huge, homely dining room and lounge, plus a large conference room and a kitchen with what you need to cook a meal. Linda is also adding two self-catering units downstairs, each with its own kitchen and a loft for kids and others. The manor is a distinctive old two-storey building with a vintage feel and plenty of space. There are seven rooms upstairs and seven downstairs. Upstairs, two rooms have king beds plus a three-quarter bed for an extra guest, three are especially spacious with king beds and good-sized bathrooms, and two smaller ones have queen beds. Four rooms have balconies. The rooms have lovely beds, very clean linen, a warm blanket if needed, and a TV, bar fridge, kettle, tea, coffee and sugar. One of the best guesthouses I’ve stayed in. I’d happily come back.