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Take a trip to Franschhoek and check out this chic guesthouse

The Belmont guesthouse is now open and is the perfect weekend winelands escape

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By House & Garden South Africa | March 6, 2023 | Travel Leisure

Owned by CJ & Jean-Marie Stander, The Belmont is walking distance from the center of the famous Franschhoek village - home to an array of world class restaurants, wine bars and cafés. Booked together, The Belmont's 7 suites provide the ideal setting for large family or friend gatherings and celebrations, or individually, for quiet getaways to the beautiful Franschhoek Valley, fittingly referred to as the "food and wine capital" of South Africa.

All of the interior design and decoration was handled by the internationally acclaimed Tammy Holmes, owner of Ivy Decor and Design - a designer who has used bold colours, textures and accessories to create beautiful, livable spaces for guests to enjoy.

“Having the opportunity to completely overhaul a historical building with such incredible bones, structure and detail such as original hardwood floors, arches, and high ceilings, is a dream for most designers. Couple this with having open-minded, trusting clients with great taste, and the results are better than any of us dreamed” says Tammy Holmes.

At The Belmont you will see lots and lots of fun colours, prints, patterns and textures. “We wanted to create rooms that feel welcoming but chic, with a slight departure from what guests may have in their own homes by way of bold colours and patterns. I also love the idea of guests being able to visit The Belmont 7 times before having to stay in the same room, as each one has its own distinct personality and feeling about it.” she explains.

For co-owner Jean-Marié, stepping into this house was like stepping back in time, into a familiar space filled with memories and the unlocking of their lives together!

Following CJ’s retirement in 2021, they moved back to South Africa, leaving behind friends, memories and a chapter of their lives that had been written at 10 Belmont Hill. “When we stepped through the front door for the very first time, we saw the same hardwood floors, high ceilings and dado rail mouldings that had adorned our Irish abode. She only needed a bit of TLC to restore her to her former glory.” says CJ Stander.

“We knew we wanted to name her in honour of our Castleconnell home. And so, for the second time, we start a new chapter together in a familiar yet different setting, and we look forward to welcoming you to our guesthouse, The Belmont - an extension of who we are and where we come from!”

The Belmont's location offers guests the opportunity to enjoy all that the main street and surrounding wine farms are famous for, but with all the quiet, privacy and charm of a restored grand dame.

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