I’d been to Greyton before, actually I walked there once from McGregor along the Boesmanskloof Trail which winds 14km through the Riviersonderend Mountains that separate the two villages.
A fine achievement I felt, as I spent that very evening sipping on a glass of Lismore Viognier while taking in the calm ambiance of this special place, wondering why on earth I was doing the walk in reverse the following day. After that, I’d taken up any opportunity to drive through for lunch or even a weekend that would have me soaking up the bottled charm of Greyton.
Each time falling more into the pace of life that exists in this picturesque village, making discoveries and leaving me coveting a life that involved tree-lined avenues, backyard orchards, horses in the street and rose gardens which are celebrated at the annual Greyton Rose Fair.
This meant that when Graeme Forbes of HYPE invited me to visit Greyton with him and experience an overnight at the historically significant The Post House, I jumped at the opportunity. I’d enjoyed meals there before but never stayed. I was in for a treat. As background, Greyton is situated just 90 minutes from Cape Town in the beautiful Overberg region and accessible by a scenic drive off the N2 highway.
The Post House is one of the oldest buildings in Greyton and was originally constructed in 1860 and served as Greyton’s post office, a trading post and a lodge for weary travellers. The building was proclaimed a National Monument in December 1993 and has been nurtured through the ages as a landmark property in the village. Today you find a balance of old-world charm and modern convenience here, with the rooms and restaurant recently refurbished and the Post House never more ready to welcome guests for weekend getaways, midweek conferences and intimate country weddings.
The garden area with the rooms located around the green lawns and chairs carefully placed for relaxed chats and enjoyment.
Succulents on Roses. Every table has it’s own mini succulent garden. One of many touches found throughout this charming property.
The pool is discreetly tucked away behind a wall ensuring privacy to guests. Actually, I had to ask for it, I like that.
The Post House hotel offers guests a choice of six Standard Suites and seven Luxury Suites, three with Victorian baths and four with spacious showers. There is also a Honeymoon Suite and a Family Suite which has all the amenities of a home away from home including a television.
All of the rooms are en-suite and tastefully decorated in countryside comfort with neutral tones. Each room has a patio with seating overlooking the garden. The rooms do not have televisions, as the purpose here is an escape from the city. Although there is a TV in the bar for must-watch sports games. A well-stocked bookshelf in the Manor House has plenty to offer anybody wanting to get stuck into a good read.
My beautiful room with Victorian bath and Healing Earth environmentally friendly products, also a lovely welcome note and some locally produced Von Geusau chocolates as a treat.
Chef Grant Lynott who some may remember from his days at Thornton Whites at the bottom of Cape Town’s Bree Street, has relocated to Greyton and opted for the quiet country life.
One that inspires as he grows and forages for much of his own fresh produce in the surrounding land. What a pleasure to talk to him, his enthusiasm for life in Greyton and the wonderful food he produces is infectious. For dinner I had a delicious wild mushroom risotto which followed a starter of lightly spiced carrot and sweet potato soup, a decadent mix of chocolate and meringue dessert brought the wonderful meal to an end.
Grant seems to have found his culinary haven at The Post House where he is bringing a strong foodie element to the much loved establishment. Breakfast was a spread of fruits, cereals, pastries and home-baked breads with a cooked breakfast to order. I ordered the Shakshuka spiced tomato with poached eggs, which was amazing. Outside visitors are welcome in the restaurant, so if your first visit to Greyton is just for a day, this is the place to enjoy breakfast or lunch.
The detail on the tiles outside the door to the garden.
Over and above the accommodation and restaurant, the Post House lends itself to intimate weddings either indoors or in the garden. There are also conference facilities available and events are offered. Make sure you stay for at least two nights, you’ll just be getting into the mood of the village by then and really won’t want to leave. Thank you, Sam, Chef Grant and Graeme for the warmth and most wonderful stay.
When planning your visit have a look at my Things to Do In Greyton. My Guide.
For further encouragement to visit, see The Post House website and connect with them on Facebook and Twitter. For a full album on my The Incidental Facebook page, see here. The Post House. 20-22 Main Road, Greyton. 7233. Tel: +27 282549995 Mail: reservations@theposthouse.co.za.
** I was hosted by The Post House for Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast.
