Rich in history and cultural diversity, Paarl has become the gateway to Cape Town’s wine district. Located conveniently on the N1, 30 minutes from Cape Town’s CBD and 20 minutes from the popular Franschhoek and Stellenbosch regions, it is the ideal base from which to explore Cape Town’s wine region. Lying in the shadow of Paarl Rock, the imposing watchman of the region and bounded by the splendid greenery of the winelands, Paarl offers visitors the fresh air and serenity that only the country side can offer as well as the convenience of restaurants, coffee shops and other tourist attractions close by.

In deciding on Paarl accommodation you will find a number of quality establishments. However, for us there could be only one. Nestled in a quiet close in the centre of town we found Pontac Manor. Established in 1733, it is a 4 star boutique hotel complete with award winning restaurant, wedding venue and conference venue.

Pontac Manor, Paarl guest house, derived its name from the du Pontac family, the governors of the region at the time. With over 270 years of history, the manor has come a long way. Since Pierre de Labuschagne, the original owner started construction on the back wing, a simple Cape Dutch building with a thatch roof, in 1733, the manor has gone from strength to strength. Meticulous detail has gone into remodeling the venue to re-incorporate the timeless Victorian theme that originally adorned the Manor.

Minor touches are used to bring across the experience. The garden is littered with plants exclusively from the Victorian age, and the original veranda has been refurbished to conserve historic value. However, with 22 bedrooms, 2 conference venues, 1 restaurant, a café and a bar, Pontac Manor offers visitors to the region a luxurious 4 star experience on a large chunk of historic land in the shadow of Paarl Rock.

When it comes to Pontac Manor’s prowess as a wedding venue; couples can choose from the gardens, the restaurant or the entire manor. The manor capable of seating 90 guests is a popular choice with bridal couples and the rate includes a romantic evening in the honeymoon suite with the hotel’s compliments. The hotel’s gardens, with the magnificent Paarl Rock and Cape Winelands as a backdrop, offers an intimate, outdoor wedding, while the restaurant and the adjacent terrace offer a reception or wedding venue in Paarl.

Historic value aside, Pontac Manor offers visitors a luxurious experience from the moment you set foot onto the property. From the comfortable arm chairs in the reception area, to the relaxing veranda overlooking the gardens and the resident squirrels, Pontac Manor offers guests an experience that is not soon to be forgotten.