Accommodation Banhoek Valley

The advent calendars, Michael Bublé, and festive fanfare have all reminded us that Christmas was coming for the last three months, but in the Banhoek Valley we're releasing our advent calendar today. Instead of opening thin chocolates leading up to Christmas Day, we're offering far more tempting and indulgent treats in and around De Zeven. So even if you aren't currently with us, these are the things you can look forward to 'opening' during your stay.

The last few months have made us appreciate more than we could ever have imagined, for no longer will we spend this year's winter months surrounded by guests as they make unforgettable memories. No longer will we casually go for a hike and look down at De Zeven from new heights, and no longer will we hear the sounds of wine glasses and "cheers" and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee permeating through our lodge. Times have changed, and while this time indoors is temporary, it has shaped a new way of thinking amongst us all as we learn to appreciate the simple moments in life.

The Stellenbosch and Franschhoek vineyards are turning into captivating shades of red signalling the time to move away from the crisp Sauvignon Blancs and open a bottle of Merlot instead. This change of season brings with it long weekends. They would usually entice us with promises of relaxation with family and friends who we have neglected, and suspend the demands of life just for a bit.

Richard Holmes recently wrote an article about De Zeven for the distinguished Stellenbosch Visio Magazine and it got us thinking about the changes we've seen in the first year of De Zeven, especially in the expansion of our garden. We dug around in the archives and discovered a few pictures from when we started and compared it to where we are today.

Sunrises carry a certain mystery; the promise of new beginnings and clean slates. At De Zeven we have the privilege of witnessing exquisite sunrises, whether the weather is warm and clear or cool and unpredictable. We recently captured a few snaps of the sun breaking over the Banhoek valley on a crisp spring morning and it inspired us to investigate sunrises a little deeper.