Hawklee Country House: Your Unforgettable Howick Escape (South Africa)
Hawklee Country House: My Honest (and Slightly Rambling) Howick Escape Review
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea on Hawklee Country House. This isn't your typical, sterile hotel review. This is the real deal, warts and all, because let's be honest, who actually trusts those perfect, airbrushed reviews anyway? I've just spent a few days at Hawklee, nestled in the heart of Howick, South Africa, and let me tell you, it was an experience.
First Impressions & Accessibility (or Lack Thereof, Sometimes):
Finding Hawklee wasn't exactly a breeze. GPS kept trying to send me through someone's backyard. But hey, adventure, right? The initial feeling was one of… well, charming disarray. Think overgrown gardens, a slightly wonky sign, and a general air of relaxed elegance. It's not the slick, corporate hotel vibe, which, frankly, I appreciated.
Accessibility, though… that's a mixed bag. Wheelchair accessibility? Let's just say it's present, but not fully embraced. There's an elevator, which is a huge plus, and some rooms are more accessible than others. Definitely call ahead and clarify your needs – I saw some steps, and the terrain around the property is a bit… undulating. I'd say it's trying to be inclusive, but could definitely improve.
Rooms & Comfort: My Personal Sanctuary (Mostly):
My room? Ah, my room. It was… spacious. Really spacious. And the bed? Oh, the bed. It was like sinking into a cloud of marshmallow fluff. Extra long bed? Check! Blackout curtains? Thank the heavens, yes! I’m a light sleeper, and those things are a lifesaver. They also had a desk and laptop workspace, which was crucial because, you know, work never really stops.
The bathroom was… functional. Clean, yes. Well-stocked with toiletries (they even had a hair dryer, thank the gods!), but not exactly spa-like. The bathtub was a nice touch, though, and I absolutely took advantage of that! The air conditioning was a godsend, especially since I visited in summer. The only downside? The soundproofing wasn't perfect. I could sometimes hear the… let's call them "enthusiastic" conversations of my neighbors.
The "Stuff": Amenities and Services (The Good, The Okay, and the "Wait, What?"):
- Internet: Okay, so the Wi-Fi is free in all rooms! Hallelujah! And it actually worked! The internet access – LAN was also there if you needed it.
- Dining/Drinking: The restaurants are a highlight. The Asian cuisine was surprisingly good, and the Western breakfast was a solid start to the day. There's a bar, a poolside bar, and a coffee shop, so you're covered for all your caffeine and cocktail needs. I loved having the option of breakfast in room a couple of mornings.
- Relaxation & Recreation: The pool with a view is gorgeous. Seriously, Instagram-worthy. I spent a lot of time just lounging there. They also have a fitness center and a Spa. I indulged in a massage – and it was heavenly. They had a Steamroom and a Sauna. It was amazing.
- Things to do: They also had a Gym/fitness.
- Services: The concierge was super helpful, and the daily housekeeping kept things spick and span. They offer laundry service, which is a lifesaver.
- For the Kids: They are a family/child friendly hotel. They even had a babysitting service.
- Safety: They had CCTV in common areas and Security [24-hour].
- Getting around: They had a car park [free of charge], taxi service, and airport transfer.
The Quirks (Because Life Isn't Perfect):
Okay, let's get real. Hawklee isn't perfect. There were a few hiccups.
- The signage could be better. I swear, I got lost inside the hotel once.
- The service, while generally friendly, could be a little… slow at times. Patience is a virtue, right?
- The "convenience store" was more of a "slightly stocked cupboard." Don't expect a full-blown grocery shop.
The Food: A Love Story (Mostly):
The food was… surprisingly good. The buffet breakfast was a feast of delights. Eggs, bacon, fruit, pastries… it was a glorious carb-fest. I went back for seconds (and maybe thirds) most mornings. The restaurants offered a good range of options, from a la carte to buffet. The Asian cuisine was a standout – seriously, the sushi was incredible. I also loved the desserts in restaurant.
My "Unforgettable Howick Escape" Moment:
Okay, here's the real story. One afternoon, after a particularly grueling hike (more on that later), I decided to treat myself to the Spa. I booked a massage and wandered over. The setting was serene, all hushed tones and calming music.
Now, I'm not usually a spa person. I'm more of a "rough and tumble" kind of gal. But this… this was different. The masseuse, bless her heart, was a goddess. She worked out all the knots and kinks, and I swear, I almost fell asleep on the table. Afterwards, I floated back to my room, feeling like a new person. It was pure bliss.
The Verdict: Should You Go?
Absolutely! Hawklee Country House is a charming, slightly quirky, and ultimately delightful place to stay. It's not the most polished hotel in the world, but it makes up for it with its charm, its stunning setting, and its genuinely friendly staff. It's the kind of place where you can truly relax and escape the everyday grind.
My Honest-to-Goodness Recommendation:
If you're looking for a cookie-cutter hotel experience, Hawklee might not be for you. But if you want a unique, memorable stay, with a touch of adventure and a whole lot of charm, book it. You won't regret it. Just be prepared for a few unexpected moments, embrace the imperfections, and enjoy the ride.
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Why Choose Hawklee?
- Stunning Location: Nestled in the heart of Howick, surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
- Relaxation & Rejuvenation: Indulge in our spa, pool with a view, and comfortable rooms.
- Delicious Dining: Savor the flavors of our restaurants, from Asian cuisine to hearty breakfasts.
- Unforgettable Experiences: Explore the Midlands Meander, hike to waterfalls, and discover the local culture.
- Free Wi-Fi: Stay connected with free Wi-Fi in all rooms!
- Convenient Amenities: Enjoy our fitness center, car park, and helpful staff.
Don't miss out! Visit our website or call us today to book your Howick escape!
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Ephesus Awaits: Uncover the Magic of Hotel Cenka Selçuk
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's meticulously planned itinerary. This is Hawklee Country House, Howick, South Africa, through the lens of someone who’s probably going to spill coffee on the pristine linen. And possibly burst into spontaneous interpretive dance. Let’s do this… (deep breath, tries to sound organized, fails spectacularly).
Hawklee Country House: My Chaotic South African Adventure (AKA, Surviving with Charm)
Day 1: Arrival and a Whole Lotta “Wow”
- Morning (ish): Land at King Shaka International Airport (Durban). Okay, so maybe I didn’t land gracefully. Let's just say the baggage carousel and I had a brief, awkward encounter. Found my rental car. It’s called “Brenda” (don’t ask). Navigating the left-hand side of the road is a trip, let me tell you. More like a terrifying, exhilarating, possibly illegal dance.
- Mid-Morning/Early Afternoon: Drive to Hawklee. The scenery… holy moly. The rolling hills, the vibrant green, the sheer vastness of it all. I almost drove off the road twice just gaping. Brenda handled the winding roads surprisingly well, considering my questionable driving skills.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Hawklee. Immediately, I'm in love. This place is straight out of a fairytale. The stone buildings, the gardens… it’s like stepping into a different world. Check in, immediately drop my bags (more like fling them) and just wander around, mouth agape. The staff are lovely, but I'm so overwhelmed by the beauty, I probably mumbled something incoherent.
- Late Afternoon: Explore the grounds. Found the pool. Seriously considered jumping in fully clothed. Restrained myself (mostly). Sat on the veranda, drinking a local beer (can't remember the name, blame the sun). Watched the sunset. Almost cried. It was that beautiful.
- Evening: Dinner at the Hawklee restaurant. The food… chef's kiss. I ordered the lamb shank (because, South Africa!), and it was so tender, I almost wept again. The wine pairing was divine. Okay, maybe I had two glasses. Or three. The waiter's smile was the best part of the meal.
Day 2: Horses, Hiking, and Humbling Discoveries
- Morning: Horseback riding. This was a mistake. I'm not exactly a natural equestrian. I spent the first ten minutes clinging for dear life, convinced I was going to be flung into a bush. The horse, bless his soul, was incredibly patient. Eventually, I relaxed (a little), and we actually had a lovely ride through the countryside. The views were incredible, but I was mostly focused on not falling off.
- Mid-Morning: Hiking. Hawklee has some amazing trails. Chose a moderate one, thinking I was in decent shape. Wrong. It was uphill. The sun was relentless. I was panting like a dog. But the views from the top were worth it. Absolutely breathtaking. Felt a surge of pride, followed by a desperate need for a nap.
- Afternoon: Trying to embrace the relaxation. Lounging by the pool. Reading a book (which I promptly dropped in the water). The sun is hot, but the breeze is perfect. Life is good.
- Late Afternoon: EXPLORING HOWICK! I decided to venture outside the safety of Hawklee. I'm a bit of a history buff, so I headed to the Howick Museum. It's small, but charming, and I learned a lot about the area's history. Then it was time for a more somber visit to the Nelson Mandela Capture Site. Seeing the monument, standing where such a pivotal moment in history took place, was incredibly moving. It's the sort of experience that makes you re-evaluate everything. I honestly didn't expect to have an emotional reaction. I was wrong. I left feeling humbled and thoughtful. I think about how this man had to suffer.
- Evening: Another delicious dinner, this time with a different local wine. Trying to be more adventurous with the menu. Successfully avoided any major spills. Feeling like a pro now.
Day 3: The Falls, the Food, and Farewell (sob!)
- Morning: Breakfast. The eggs benedict were perfection. Seriously, I could eat that every day. Refueled for what I knew would be a busy day.
- Mid-Morning: Visit to Howick Falls. The falls themselves are impressive, of course, but it's the feeling of being there that gets you. The raw power of the water, the mist on your face, the sheer scale of it all… it’s awe-inspiring. I stood there for ages, just staring. Almost forgot to take photos. (Note to self: take more photos!)
- Late Morning: Shopping at a local craft market. Found some beautiful, handcrafted items. Bought way too much stuff, mostly things I don’t need, but I don’t care! Supporting local artisans is a good cause, right? Plus, the bright colors and unique designs were irresistible.
- Afternoon: Cooking class at Hawklee. This was the highlight. I'm not the world's best cook, but the chef was incredibly patient and the food we made was incredible. We learned how to make a traditional South African dish (I can’t remember the name, but it involved lots of spices and slow cooking). The smells, the flavors… pure bliss. I even managed to not set anything on fire! (Mostly.)
- Late Afternoon: Last swim in the pool. Said goodbye to the beautiful view.
- Evening: Final dinner. Tears. Okay, maybe not full-on sobbing, but there was definitely a lump in my throat. This place… it’s magical. Said goodbye to the incredibly kind staff. Promised to return.
- Night: Packing. Or, attempting to pack. My suitcase looks like a bomb went off in a clothing store. Probably going to have to buy a new one. Reflecting on the trip. Feeling incredibly grateful for the experience. And already planning my return.
Day 4: Departure
- Morning: Brenda and I say our final goodbyes. Another slightly scary drive to the airport.
- Afternoon: Departure from Durban.
- Evening: Contemplating the magic of Hawklee, and starting to plan my return. The memories will last a lifetime.
Imperfections and Rambles (because that's life, right?)
- I got lost. Several times. Brenda and I had some… discussions about directions.
- I forgot to pack sunscreen. Regret.
- I ate too much. No regrets.
- I took approximately 5,000 photos. (Will probably delete half of them.)
- I learned that I’m not as coordinated as I thought I was.
- I learned that South Africa is a country that will steal your heart.
Final Thoughts:
Hawklee Country House is more than just a place to stay; it's an experience. It's a place to unwind, to explore, to learn, and to be utterly captivated by beauty. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the moment and find yourself at the same time. It's a place I will never forget. And, yes, I’m already dreaming of going back. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to find a bottle of that South African wine… and start planning my next adventure. Cheers!
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Hawklee Country House: Your Unforgettable Howick Escape - The Unfiltered FAQs
So, what *actually* makes Hawklee worth the schlep to Howick? I mean, besides the photos looking all idyllic?
Okay, let's be real. The photos? They're gorgeous. But trust me, they *underplay* the magic. It's not just about the perfectly manicured lawns (which, admittedly, are pretty damn perfect). It's the *feeling*. The moment you drive through those gates, you exhale. Like, a deep, soul-cleansing exhale. I remember the first time, after a week of battling deadlines and screaming traffic, I felt my shoulders *literally* drop.
It's the quiet. The absolute, glorious quiet. Except for the birds. They're a noisy bunch, but in the best way. I once spent a whole afternoon just watching a pair of them build a nest in a tree outside my room. I swear, they were judging my choice of reading material. (It was a trashy romance novel, don't judge me!)
And the food... Oh, the food! Forget your diet. You're in Hawklee, you *eat*. The breakfasts are legendary. I'm still dreaming about the French toast with berries and that *amazing* homemade granola. I'm not even a granola person, usually! And the dinners? Proper, hearty, home-cooked meals. One night, they served this incredible lamb shank that I'm pretty sure I licked the plate clean. Don't judge me again!
Okay, okay, sounds good. But what if something goes wrong? I'm a worrier. What's the "worst case scenario" at Hawklee?
Alright, let's address the elephant in the room: perfection is a myth. And while Hawklee is pretty darn close, it's not a sterile, faultless hotel. Things *can* go wrong. For instance, the Wi-Fi in my room was a bit patchy. And I'm a person who needs Wi-Fi to survive, I'm basically powered by cat videos and online shopping. The horror!
But here's the thing: the staff are *genuinely* lovely. They're not just going through the motions. They actually *care*. When I mentioned the Wi-Fi issue, it was fixed immediately. And they were so apologetic, even though it was hardly a disaster.
The absolute worst thing that happened to me? I ate too much dessert. And then felt slightly ill. That's it. That's the worst-case scenario. And even that was my fault. So, breathe. You'll be fine. Maybe pack some indigestion tablets, just in case.
What about the rooms? Are they all the same? Which one should I beg for?
The rooms are all charming, but they definitely have their own personalities. I've stayed in a few, and each one is unique. Some have fireplaces (romantic!), some have balconies overlooking the gardens (bliss!), and some have these enormous bathtubs that practically beg you to take a long, luxurious soak.
Honestly, I’m not sure which room is the *best* because it depends on what you're after. If you're looking for privacy and romance, request one of the cottages. If you want stunning views, go for a room overlooking the valley. But honestly, they're all good. They're all comfortable. They're all decorated with a kind of understated elegance that makes you feel immediately at home. I once got a room with a tiny, slightly wonky window frame, and I still adored it. It just added character, you know?
My advice? Don't stress too much. You'll love whatever room you get. Just make sure you *ask* for your preference when booking. And maybe pack a book to read in the bathtub. Heaven.
Is it kid-friendly? Because I'm thinking of bringing my little terrors... I mean, darlings.
Okay, this is a tricky one. Hawklee *is* kid-friendly, in the sense that they'll welcome your little ones. They have a beautiful garden for them to run around in, and the staff are incredibly patient. But... it's not a "kiddie resort."
Think of it this way: if your kids are the type who can appreciate a bit of peace and quiet, who can happily play outside and explore without needing constant entertainment, then you'll all have a wonderful time. If they're the type who are going to scream and run wild and demand constant attention, you might find yourselves a little stressed.
Honestly, I saw some kids there who were perfectly well-behaved, and they seemed to be having a blast. They were running around, playing games, and generally enjoying themselves. But I also saw a few parents who looked a bit... frazzled. So, assess your own situation. Maybe pack extra earplugs. Just in case.
What's there to *do* in Howick? Besides, you know, breathing and eating delicious food?
Right, so Howick is not exactly buzzing with nightlife. It's not Ibiza. Thank God. It's about *getting away* from the noise, remember? But there's still plenty to do.
The Howick Falls are a must-see. They're stunning. Seriously, go see them. And then there's the Midlands Meander, which is a collection of art galleries, craft shops, and restaurants. It's perfect for a lazy afternoon of browsing and shopping. I once spent a whole day wandering around the shops, buying way too many candles and handmade soaps. No regrets!
You can also go hiking, cycling, horse riding, or just chill out by the pool. (The pool is lovely, by the way). Honestly, though, the best thing to do is just *be*. Read a book. Take a nap. Have a long conversation with someone you love. Hawklee is the perfect place to do absolutely nothing and feel completely refreshed.
Okay, you've convinced me. But what's the *one* thing I absolutely MUST do while I'm there? One single, unforgettable experience.
Alright, buckle up, because I'm about to get all sentimental. Forget the falls, forget the shopping. The *one* thing you absolutely MUST do? Have a sunset drink on the patio.
I'm not even a "sunset person," usually. I’m more of a “Netflix and chill” kind of girl. But the sunsets at Hawklee? They're something else. The way the light catches the trees, the way the colours shift and change... it's just breathtaking.
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