Fodor's Expert Review De Hoek Country Hotel

In France this exclusive establishment would be called an auberge—a five-star destination hotel with a superb restaurant suitable for an overnight or weekend jaunt—and the two-story, sandstone building along the river would not be out of place in Provence. De Hoek sits amid semi-indigenous gardens in the exquisite Magalies River valley. The quiet rooms have golden walls and dark mahogany furniture. Some of the superior suites have fireplaces, and all rooms have underfloor heating. Archery, croquet, lawn bowling, and mountain walks are some of the activities available, but the magnificent restaurant—serving classy five-course dinners and a five-course Sunday lunch (booking essential for outside visitors)—is what brings most people.