Welcome to Mont Rochelle, a stunning 26-bedroom hotel and vineyard just under an hour’s drive from Cape Town in the town of Franschhoek in South Africa. Franschhoek is a traditional vineyard town in the Western Cape Province famously known as the French Corner of the Cape and is considered to be the food and wine capital of South Africa.
Escape to this picturesque corner of South Africa at the foot of the Klein Dassenberg Mountain Range for relaxation and a superb culinary experience accompanied by some outstanding wines.
Special Interests: Cycling, Flora, Golf, Gourmet, Hiking, History & Culture, Indigenous Culture / Art, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Wine
There are four Shiraz Rooms with king-size beds and all feature courtyard or valley views. All beds can be made up with twin beds on request. The Shiraz rooms can be found in the Garden wing and Manor house wing of the hotel.
What to expect to find in the room? Africology branded bathroom amenities, flat screen TV, mini speakers for streaming music, tea and coffee facilities, a notepad and pen, postcards with stamps, laundry bag, a safety deposit box, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, plug adaptor and umbrella. For heating and air conditioning there are split units in the room to keep one warm or cool so regardless of the season, all of the bathrooms also have underfloor heating. At Mont Rochelle there are no sneaky minibar charges so everything in the in room minibar is complimentary!
The six Merlot Rooms which are larger than the Shiraz Rooms can be found in the Garden wing and Manor house wing of the hotel, and also boast king-size beds with valley views. All beds can be made up with twin beds on request.
What to expect to find in the room? Africology branded bathroom amenities, flat screen TV, mini speakers for streaming music, tea and coffee facilities, a notepad and pen, postcards with stamps, laundry bag, a safety deposit box, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, plug adaptor and umbrella. For heating and air conditioning there are split units in the room to keep one warm or cool so regardless of the season, all of the bathrooms also have underfloor heating. At Mont Rochelle there are no sneaky minibar charges so everything in the in room minibar is complimentary!
The six Cabernet Rooms include a private terrace overlooking the valley. Located in the Vineyard wing of the hotel. All rooms have king-size beds which can be made up with twin beds on request.
What to expect to find in the room? Africology branded bathroom amenities, flat-screen TV, mini speakers for streaming music, tea and coffee facilities, a notepad and pen, postcards with stamps, laundry bag, a safety deposit box, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, plug adaptor and umbrella. For heating and air conditioning there are split units in the room to keep one warm or cool so regardless of the season, all of the bathrooms also have underfloor heating. At Mont Rochelle, there are no sneaky minibar charges so everything in the in-room minibar is complimentary!
There are also four even more spacious Pinotage Suites which each feature a separate lounge and fantastic views. Located in the Garden wing and Manor House wing of the hotel, all suites have king-size beds which can be made up with twin beds on request.
What to expect to find in the room? Africology branded bathroom amenities, flat screen TV, mini speakers for streaming music, tea and coffee facilities, a notepad and pen, postcards with stamps, laundry bag, a safety deposit box, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, plug adaptor and umbrella. For heating and air conditioning there are split units in the room to keep one warm or cool so regardless of the season, all of the bathrooms also have underfloor heating. At Mont Rochelle there are no sneaky minibar charges so everything in the in room minibar is complimentary!
The Cap Classique Suites, are the two largest rooms, enjoy a separate lounge area, a private terrace and a heated plunge pool. Located in the Vineyard wing of the hotel, all suites have king-size beds which can be made up with twin beds on request.
What to expect to find in the room? Africology branded bathroom amenities, flat screen TV, mini speakers for streaming music, tea and coffee facilities, a notepad and pen, postcards with stamps, laundry bag, a safety deposit box, hairdryer, bathrobe, slippers, plug adaptor and umbrella. For heating and air conditioning there are split units in the room to keep one warm or cool so regardless of the season, all of the bathrooms also have underfloor heating. At Mont Rochelle there are no sneaky minibar charges so everything in the in room minibar is complimentary!
Manor House
Just a short walk from the main hotel building and a stone’s throw from our winery, the Manor House is the newest addition to Mont Rochelle. The beautiful four-bedroom villa with a bunkroom can be booked for exclusive use and is ideal for families or small groups looking to escape to the winelands.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Gym, Gym (nearby), Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Malaria Free, Meal on Request, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Room Facilities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, En-Suite, Hair Dryer, Heated Towel Rails, Internet Access (Complimentary), Iron / Ironing Board, Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Safe, Satellite / Cable Television, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Television, Underfloor Heating, Verandah
Here at Mont Rochelle wine tasting isn’t just a special event – it’s an everyday occurrence. Wine tastings can be organised in a variety of locations, including in Miko Restaurant, at our bar, at the Country Kitchen and in our wine cellar (as you might expect!).
The 150 year old wine cellar was previously used as a fruit packing shed for the early settlers. Since being converted to a traditional wine cellar Mont Rochelle can now process close to 150 tons of grapes in a season, and these smaller volumes afford more concentration on quality rather than quantity. Stainless steel tanks aid in the making of the crisp clean whites, while barrels are favoured for the red wine making. Wines are available to purchase.
Cellar and Winery Tours - Monday - Friday at 11h00 - complimentary (pre-booking required)
Premium Winery Tours are also available on a Monday / Wednesday / Friday at 11h00 with Mont Rochelle’s very own Wine Maker. This is a true winery experience lasting approximately 20 minutes where you’ll be taken around Mont Rochelle’s winery and cellar, ending with a Wine tasting (pre-booking required)
Take a dip and relax in the main outdoor heated swimming pool at Mont Rochelle - there are some fantastic views of the Franschhoek Mountains. Bar service is available around the pool and fresh pool towels are available.
What could be more relaxing than a spa treatment during your stay? Mont Rochelle has two dedicated spa treatment rooms as well as a Hammam. We use the eco-friendly Africology ‘Authentic’ range of products which are made from 100% essential oils and natural plant extracts. Resident guests are welcome to make use of the Hammam at their leisure as long as it’s not in use for a scheduled treatment.
There are some wonderful routes that make it easy to explore the surrounding area on bike. We can arrange rentals with a local company, just let us know and we can book these for you.
Enjoy a hike through the hills, valleys and vineyards surrounding the hotel, as well as in local reserves. The Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve on the opposite side of the valley offers superb views of
the wine valley and on a clear day you can even see Table Mountain and the ocean! The walks vary in length from 3 to 8 hours and are of moderate intensity. One will need to acquire a 1 day permit that
costs R30 per person and a map that costs R15. Guests are welcome to take walks through the farm and the only request is that you stay on the walkways, thus preserving the fragile vines that produce our splendid wines.
A great way to discover the Franschhoek Valley is by the famous wine tram! This is a hop-on, hop-off service offering picturesque vineyards, beautiful scenery, fine wines, and world class cuisine as you travel. Here guests will have the chance to visit some of South Africa’s oldest and most distinguished wine estates travelling on an open air tram. Mont Rochelle is a stop on one of the Wine Tram Routes, so guests can book the other route to sample more of the area’s vineyards.
MIKO is our flagship restaurant with impeccable 180-degree views over the Franschhoek valley and a stunning terrace surrounded by glass doors, giving guests the feeling of an alfresco dining experience all year round. MIKO’s cuisine is best described as a taster to South African favourites - with a twist. Each dish tells a story, meaning guests can experience a little slice of our South African memories
The Country Kitchen is Mont Rochelle's informal restaurant located just a short walk or a quick drive from the main hotel building and adjacent to our wine cellar. If you’re visiting the Country Kitchen for lunch, a picnic, or if you’re off to the wine cellar just let us know and we’ll take you over in one of our vehicles.
For Country Kitchen reservations call +27 (0) 21 876 2770. Daytime hours: 10h00 – 18h00 every day
Mashatu Lodge | Mashatu Game Reserve
14 luxury suites situated on the eastern fringes of the Kalahari Desert and water is its most precious resource.
Each of the air-conditioned suites at Mashatu Lodge is tastefully decorated and includes impressive black and white prints of Africa’s most beautiful animals. A double bed and an extra-large single bed, together with a seating area that includes a single day bed, comfortably accommodates families. The ample en-suite bathroom with both bath and shower facilities and a separate W.C. complete the well-appointed suites.
Two large swimming pools are a focal point to cool down and relax between game activities.
Meals are a sumptuous celebration of traditional African Cuisine – flavoursome but lacking in ostentation. Fresh fruits, vegetables, home-made breads and pies, succulent meat dishes and delicious desserts will appeal to a guest who appreciates home cooking at its best.
With a fully stock curio shop for retail therapy, a Discovery Room offering a glimpse into another world with ancient relics that will amaze, and on on-site spa offering luxurious and relaxing treatments – Mashatu Lodge has something for everyone in the family.
Information
Rooms
Facilities
Activities and Services
Restaurants
Your Stay
4 Nights
Full Board Plus - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast, Lunch and Activities
All Local Brands (Spirits, Wine and Beers) Included
Special Interests: Adventure, Birding, Cycling, Flora, Hiking, History & Culture, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Shopping, Star Gazing, Wildlife
Luxury Suite
14 luxury suites, each air-conditioned and tastefully decorated with impressive black and white prints of Africa’s most beautiful animals.
A double bed and an extra-large single bed, together with a seating area that includes a single day bed, comfortably accommodates families. The ample en-suite bathroom with both bath and shower facilities and a separate W.C. complete the well-appointed suites.
Property Facilities
24-hour Security, Bar, Barbeque Facilities, Business Centre, Communal Dining, Conference Centre, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Available), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle Available, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, TV Room
Discover the heart of Mashatu Game Reserve through exhilarating safari game drives. Traverse the 31,000-hectare wilderness, following the well-worn trails of over 1000 elephants that call this haven home. These paths, created by breeding herds and their playful calves, offer a unique vantage point for unforgettable encounters with Africa’s majestic wildlife. Guided by seasoned rangers, embark on open four-wheel drive vehicles and venture off-road to witness the raw beauty of lions, cheetahs, leopards, and hyenas, alongside the diverse range of giraffes, zebras, and antelope that populate the reserve. As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the enigmatic world of nocturnal creatures during captivating night drives, guided by powerful spotlights. In the company of expert guides, get up close to over 366 bird species, marvel at the breathtaking scenery, and capture stunning photographic moments. Mashatu Lodge even offers exclusive private vehicle options upon request, allowing you to tailor your adventure. These Tswana guides, steeped in local knowledge, provide invaluable insights into the intricate web of nature, enriching your experience with depth and meaning. Your journey not only connects you with the wild but also supports responsible travel and conservation efforts. Join us in preserving this remarkable ecosystem and creating lasting memories in the heart of Africa.
WalkMashatu is an intimate look and exploration into the daily lives of Mashatu’s inhabitants and wilderness area. By interacting closely with some of our enigmatic, remarkable and powerful wildlife characters and following paths, WalkMashatu provides the opportunity to peek into the natural world and how the ecosystem of Mashatu thrives, from the smallest of insects to the largest of creatures. WalkMashatu allows you to immerse yourself in nature, become grounded and feel the rhythm and wonder of Africa’s wilderness. WalkMashatu is a life event. WalkMashatu is a not a race, survival or endurance test. Walks are to explore, experience and enjoy the ancient African landscapes. To contribute to your tailored experience, our walking guides are handpicked and have years of experience walking in wilderness areas. They are passionate about walking and exploring smaller and normally overlooked aspects of the African Bushveld, striving to make your experience interactive and informative.
Horizon Horseback Mashatu is honoured with the reputation of having the finest schooled horses on the African continent.
A horseback safari at Mashatu guarantees unforgettable memories and a deep connection with the African wilderness. Book your adventure in advance to secure your place on this extraordinary journey. Note that children under the age of 12 are not permitted, and those under the age of 18 need to be accompanied by an experienced rider. Traverse natural ditches and leap over logs as you explore the perfect riding terrain. Encounter a breathtaking array of wildlife, from iconic elephants and elusive cats to wild dogs, antelopes, and more. Witness the beauty of giraffes and zebras as you canter across the plains. Choose from a morning or afternoon ride at Mashatu Euphorbia Villas, Mashatu Lodge, or Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu. Experience the fast-paced exhilaration of advanced riding. For skilled riders, the ‘camp wild’ journey offers a 7-day horse safari adventure on Mashatu. Safety is paramount. A riding test ensures that riders are experienced and comfortable. Non-riders can explore Mashatu’s wonders through game drives, photographic hides, walking safaris, and cycling adventures while riders tailor their private rides from the stables. Book your adventure in advance to secure your place on this extraordinary journey. For experienced riders only.
With the famous sunken, underground hide, a dedicated photographic vehicle, and knowledgeable photography professionals who guide you in making incredible images, the PhotoMashatu experience is not to be missed by photography enthusiasts or professionals.
The award-winning sunken hide at Mashatu has been designed specifically for photographers who want to get up close and personal to wildlife. The hide’s location is at an exceptionally busy watering hole, that is frequented by a variety of animals and birds. The highlights are the elephants - who come en-masse to the hide. Imagine being 2m away from a herd of elephants, whilst at ground level! In one session you can expect to be thrilled by a variety of antelope, birdlife, elephants and occasionally predators too. Importantly, non-photographers enjoy a visit to the hide just as much - here it is all about the animals coming towards you.
Our PhotoMashatu vehicle was designed with the photographer in mind. It has ample space for your equipment, gimbal arms, soft boxes in which to store your cameras whilst driving around and a special low-level floor from which to get eye level images. The vehicle has been lauded as one of the most comfortable photo vehicles in Africa – giving you that extra advantage of getting the best images possible whilst you are out in the field.
With over 11 years’ experience providing photographic support in Mashatu Game Reserve, the PhotoMashatu team offers you complete photographic support during your visit.
Embark on a thrilling cycle adventure. For those seeking a new dimension of exploration, guests staying at Mashatu Euphorbia, Mashatu Lodge, Tuli Safari Lodge Mashatu, or Mashatu Tent Camp can embark on an exhilarating mountain bike safari. Prepare to witness the bush from an entirely unique perspective as you pedal your way through the untamed wilderness. Accompanied by experienced rangers, venture along ancient elephant paths for an awe-inspiring journey amidst the “Giants of Mashatu.” Cycling through this breathtaking landscape is a rare and unforgettable experience, tailored to the fitness and strength of the riders. Mountain bike safaris take place in the early morning and late afternoon, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surroundings during the most enchanting hours. Discover a world of adventure with mountain bikes, cycling helmets, and water bottles readily available at Mashatu – your gateway to a thrilling exploration of the wild.
The Discovery Room, situated at Mashatu Lodge, is a museum of all things Mashatu past and present, and is the perfect activity to keep the little ones engaged. The educational side of Mashatu, our Discovery Room presents a number of interesting displays of our Reserve and provides an opportunity to browse through during periods of relaxation between game drives. You can expect fish aquaria of the some of the local species, archaeological artefacts, collection of Boer War remains found on Mashatu, reconstructed skeletons, findings of the predator and elephant research that has been conducted on Mashatu.
Indulge in our lavish spa treatments from the tranquil ambiance of Mashatu Lodge. Serokolo, a bespoke spa with tranquil facilities at Mashatu Lodge, has skilled therapists ready to pamper you with rejuvenating therapies and quality products using local and natural ingredients that reflect our commitment to both luxury and well-being.
The perfect way to wind down, whether it be a sunrise or post private game drive spa session.
Night under the Stars offers a one-of-a-kind experience, with uniquely designed tents positioned in surprise locations, making you one with the surrounding wildlife of Mashatu. Enjoy fireside chats with fellow nature lovers, hear the laughs of hyena passing by, and gaze up at the twinkly night sky from the comfort of your tent. Romantic, intimate, and indescribable.
This is booked as an additional activity and is offered throughout the year. The rate is for max 6 pax. No children under 12 years permitted. Children aged 12 to 18 must be accompanied by a parent. Guests will depart the lodge they are booked at after dinner (approximately 9pm), with an overnight bag. They will be taken on a night drive to explore the nocturnal activities happening in the reserve (approximately 2hrs). The night drive will end at the WalkMashatu Fly Camp, where they may participate in night photography, a night walk and/or fireside stories with drinks and snacks, before sleeping under the stars. The next morning, guests will have a light early morning breakfast before departing on morning game drive at around 6am and then back to camp, or back to camp first and then game drive.
Restaurant and Boma
Meals are a sumptuous celebration of traditional African Cuisine - flavoursome and homely. Fresh fruits, vegetables, home-made breads and pies, succulent meat dishes and delicious desserts will appeal to a guest who appreciates informal cuisine at its best.
Morning pre-game drive snacks, brunch and high tea are served on the shaded terrace overlooking the waterhole.
Dinners are served around a blazing fire in the reed-enclosed boma (African structure), exposing diners to the glorious night sky above.
