My lovely wife has found some absolute gems on our travels. This is a pure cut Princess Diamond.

This stunning property is located just over 1Km outside Franschhoek on the road to the left of the Memorial, in one of the finest local wine valleys. Secluded, in a private estate with walled gardens and a private pool, this is a wonderful getaway for singles or couples, with a maximum of two occupants.

I have been lucky enough to stay at some of the finest hotels in the world, as part of one of my previous occupations, and a private suite with facilities and space that this location has, would cost a fortune. There is everything here for self-catering, a fully equipped kitchen, a bathroom that is beyond realisation for a self-catering cottage, and a lounge which reflects the true meaning of lounge. You could play hide and seek in this cottage! (The pictures on the internet do not do this cottage justice!)There is an excellent information station with things to do, local amenities, and even flora and fauna information. The cottage is ideally situated for the Franschhoek Pass, providing access to the Eastern Cape, the Stellenbosch and Paarl wine routes are accessible from the main road through Franschhoek, and Cape Town is around one hours drive if you drive at Pick's speed which is within the speed limit!

The owners live on the estate in an unobtrusive location. The cottage and the pool are serviced daily.

This is the best self-catering venue that we have visited in Africa and Europe - we tend not to do self-catering elsewhere. OK there is no restaurant, and no room service - but just along the road is one of the finest culinary experiences in South Africa - Franschhoek. Fine wine, fine dining. Woolworths opened just before Christmas, and there is are two Pick n Pay's and several high quality wine shops in the village.

Why will my Wife kill me? - because she wants to keep it all to herself! We have of course booked to go again in April.

Trust me - you will love it here!

Saddlebrook cottage has all the ingredients for the perfect rural retreat, and takes self catering to a whole new level.
As seasoned travelers of over 25 years, my partner and I have not found better.
The cottage is really lovely, sheer elegance in a rural setting, superbly furnished and equipped for two.
The private walled garden and pool are set within a much larger park like garden, with magnificent mountain views. We were completely secluded, yet within minutes of the busy village centre.
We were welcomed by John with genuine enthusiasm. Both he and Russell are warm charming and attentive hosts, and will not miss a detail to make your stay memorable.
Thanks also to Hannock for keeping the cottage immaculate throughout our visit - always smiling.
Our weeks stay wasn't enough, we will return for longer next time.

On arrival, a basket of fruit, a card and some chilled wine set the tone for a wonderful stay in such a stunning area.

The cottage is done to perfection with every little touch covered, a comfy bed, private pool and a great amount of space.

Russell and John have done an amazing job in making us feel very welcome and offered a great stay.

Without any hesitation, I would stay here again and recommend.

I don't think it is possible to find a nicer, more private, more luxurious place to stay in all of Franschhoek. This is the perfect place for a couple or single traveler. Very large and elegantly furnished private cottage with private pool and the most expansive uninterrupted views of the spectacular mountains surrounding Franschhoek. Spacious and finely appointed spa bathroom, very comfortable high end furnishings, fully equipped kitchen, and a most comfortable bed. The outdoor patio by the pool is equally large and comfortably, tastefully furnished. Easy access to all that Franschhoek has to offer yet providing the utmost in privacy. Hosts John and Russell are extremely gracious and are most helpful in recommending things to do and places to eat in Franschhoek and surrounding area. Treat yourself and stay here.

We knew from the moment we arrived that this was going to be a special place.
A chilled bottle of wine and 2 glasses were already on the terrace awaiting us.
The cottage although just for 2 people is huge and beautifully furnished. Most comfortable bed ever. The housekeeper Hannock did a daily tidy and changed linens etc. whilst we were out, he was charming & very discrete. The private garden was lovely with our own heated pool. Lots of special touches like the picnic hamper provided and welcome bowl of fruit.
There are several wine estates within walking distance, as is the village.
On an adjoining farm we found an exceptional restaurant called "Cafe Bon Bon" which was much more than just a cafe! - we had breakfast, lunch and dinner there during our weeks stay, it was very handy.
The owners Russell & John are really friendly, & so helpful in many ways.
We felt truly privileged to stay here & guarantee you won't want to leave, we didn't!

This is a really luxurious, very safe, and very comfortable cottage one could ever desire. It is furnished with care and quality to create a most relaxing cottage which once stayed in few would ever wish to leave! We have visited South Africa every year for extended stays since 2004 and in that time have hired many cottages and apartments, we have almost invariably been happy with our choices but Saddlebrook comes into a category all of its own. The fittings in the kitched are magnificent quality, the private pool and wonderful outdoor seating and relaxing area are all anyone could wish for. The bed is of superior comfort and all of the other furnishings and soft fittings are of equally high standards and outstandingly tasteful. The owners are nearby and are very welcoming, reliable and helpful. It is possible to say that this is in a class by itself and to recommend it without hesitation or qualification. It deserves six stars!