Just outside Wellington, at the foot of the Bain’s Kloof Pass, you’ll find the enchanting 5 Mountains Lodge and Spa. The name, which alludes to the surrounding mountains, hints at a far larger establishment, but the country house’s charm actually lies in its exclusivity.

In total, the lodge sleeps a maximum of 15 – 13 in the four garden cottages and two in the luxury master suite. The quaint garden cottages, which each have a private veranda, look out over a small vineyard and the carefully tended garden. The wooden cottages are light and airy, with whitewashed wood, pretty four-poster beds, and remarkably large en-suite bathrooms, complete with Victorian-style baths and double washbasins. While the exteriors of the cottages could do with a fresh lick of paint – perhaps thanks to recent heavy rains – the interiors are beautifully maintained.

As the name suggests, there is also a small Balinese-style spa, which offers a range of treatments in a tranquil environment. The Spa Garden, which features a Koi pond, a spa bath and a plunge pool, is a delightful addition to the lodge’s gardens.

The lodge has its own intimate garden restaurant, Grove Restaurant, which serves light lunches. However, this need not be your only option – a short drive will take you into town or to one of the nearby wine farms. If you ask, Carole, the manager, is happy to share her knowledge of the best spots in the area.

The lodge is essentially a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life, but there is still plenty to do in the area. The wine farms in the region are famous for their chocolaty pinotages, and right next door to the lodge you will find two fantastic brandy producers: Oude Wellington Estate and Napier Winery. If you feel up for a little exercise, the winding Bain’s Kloof Pass will take you to some lovely hiking trails and swimming spots.