Our pool area is a jewel of vibrancy and colour, and the perfect place to soak up the sun and cool off in the summer months. Winter sunny days are a secret joy – may we suggest you head here with a book and a blanket for some Vitamin D and me-time? The pool and pool area are exclusive to hotel guests. All pool use is at guests' own risk.

More than a backdrop at Zomerlust, the gardens are integral to any stay at our luxury boutique hotel. Wander shaded paths beneath heritage trees, pause at restored stone features, and find pockets of stillness where time slows down.

The gardens are an ever-changing canvas, underpinned by beautiful specimens such as the Magnolia grandiflora, certainly one of the biggest in Paarl, a Cape chestnut, a coral tree known for its brilliant winter blooms, and liquidambar trees along the terracing.

The restoration was led by Jann Kirkby, a Paarl-based landscape designer experienced in heritage properties. Her approach was to work with what existed rather than start from scratch. Before planting began, a tree surgeon assessed the significant trees with preservation in mind. Throughout, the focus was to repurpose rather than replace.

During clearing, original garden features were uncovered, including granite benches, a stone bird bath, original sleepers and slabs. These have been restored and repositioned throughout the garden. The main archway is an original structure, familiar to visitors over the decades. It was rebuilt and will once again be draped with grapevines, as it always was.

The planting palette draws on species suited to Paarl’s climate: heat-tolerant, wind-resistant, and largely established before the restoration began.