Basse Provence Country House

Basse Provence Country House, nestled in the picturesque Franschhoek Valley, offers a luxurious escape that has earned it a selection in the Michelin Guide. This historic property, a refurbished 1855 thatched Cape Dutch Manor house and country house, beautifully blends traditional Huguenot heritage with stylish modern luxury, providing guests with an experience often described as "heaven on earth".

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

Basse Provence Country House consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback, with a "wonderful" rating of 9.1 based on over 400 reviews. Guests frequently describe their stays as "exceptional and unforgettable" and express a strong desire to return. The sentiment is one of tranquility, luxury, and outstanding hospitality, set against a backdrop of stunning vineyard and mountain views.

2. Key Highlights

Guests particularly praise several aspects of Basse Provence:

• Exceptional Service: The staff are consistently highlighted for being friendly, welcoming, helpful, and going "above and beyond" to ensure a special and unforgettable stay.
• Stunning Location & Grounds: The property's setting on a historic vineyard, beneath 300-year-old oak trees, with views of vine-green valleys and mountains, is a major draw. The beautiful, well-maintained gardens and buildings are frequently mentioned.
• Delicious Breakfast: The breakfast is consistently described as "amazing," "absolutely delicious," "wonderful, fresh and so well presented and prepared".
• Charming Design & Ambiance: The tastefully renovated old house, blending traditional and modern styles, creates a charming and cozy atmosphere.
• Amenities: Guests appreciate the outdoor swimming pool, complimentary wine tasting at the adjacent Rickety Bridge Winery, and free Wi-Fi.

3. Room Quality

The rooms at Basse Provence Country House are described as large, clean, spacious, and beautifully decorated in a mix of traditional and modern styles, with a "winecountry decor". They are equipped with air-conditioning, mini-bar fridges, tea and coffee making facilities, and flat-screen TVs with selected DStv channels. Many rooms feature large, en-suite bathrooms, some with Victorian-style tubs, and underfloor heating. Guests have specifically praised the "super comfy" beds and modern, clean bedrooms. Some rooms, like the De Villiers, also feature a cozy fireplace. The Country Cottage offers a private two-bedroom option with a kitchenette and private terrace, ideal for families or small groups.

4. Dining Experience

The breakfast experience is a standout, consistently receiving high praise for being "absolutely delicious," "wonderful, fresh and so well presented and prepared". It is served in the breakfast room or, weather permitting, in a gorgeous breakfast courtyard or garden terrace. While the breakfast menu might be the same daily, its quality is not diminished. Guests have also mentioned enjoying tasty food at Paulina's, a restaurant within the estate. Complimentary wine tasting at Rickety Bridge Winery, where Basse Provence is managed, is another appreciated dining-related amenity.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Basse Provence Country House are consistently lauded as "exceptional". Guests frequently comment on the staff being "friendly, helpful and efficient", "welcoming and provided exceptional service". Specific mentions include staff members like Leonie and Mitchell for being helpful and kind. The wine ambassadors at Rickety Bridge are also noted for being knowledgeable and attentive. This dedication to hospitality contributes significantly to the "heaven on earth" experience guests describe.

6. Location & Accessibility

Basse Provence Country House boasts an "amazing location" just 5 minutes drive from the center of Franschhoek. Situated on a historic vineyard, it offers a tranquil and quiet setting with spectacular views of the Franschhoek mountain range and vineyards. Franschhoek itself is a renowned wine region, popular for its vineyards, wine routes, sightseeing, cycling, hiking, and restaurants. The property offers easy access to attractions like the Franschhoek Village Market, Huguenot Monument, and the Wine Tram. Getting around is easy with cabs readily available from the stay. Free private parking is also available on-site.

7. Value & Pricing

While offering a luxurious experience, Basse Provence Country House is considered to provide "exceptional value for money". Average prices per room have been noted around $111 to $153, which is considerably lower than the city's average room rate. This suggests that guests perceive a high return on their investment for the level of luxury, service, and amenities provided.

8. Common Complaints

While reviews are overwhelmingly positive, a few minor criticisms have been noted:

• Breakfast Repetition: Some guests mentioned that the breakfast is the same day-over-day, though still delicious.
• Semi-Open Plan Bathrooms: One guest found a semi-open plan bathroom not ideal when traveling with friends.
• Complimentary Wine Tasting: One review suggested the complimentary wine tasting was "not very generous and a bit disappointing".
• Room Renovation (Isolated): An older review (from 2025) indicated that one specific room might benefit from renovation and maintenance, contrasting with the general praise for freshly renovated and stunning rooms.

Sources

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