5 Things To Do At The De Hoek Country Hotel

It’s that time of the year when we are happy with our calendars; and with the long weekends and special holidays, you might need to go away. Our online editor, Amanda Ndlangisa, did just that – packed her bags for a night and headed for Magaliesburg to spend some time at the De Hoek Country Hotel.

When you think of the word country, you imagine bundu bashing and camping. But it’s not always the case, as I learnt this past long weekend. I decided to get out of my comfort zone and try something different to the hotels next to the beach and in the city, and went to Magaliesburg where I settled at this elegant and classic 5-star country hotel. I have never seen such beauty – from the drive and check in to the time of leaving.

Though I only stayed one night, I made the most of it and found a few things you could also do and enjoy there:

GET MARRIED

Do something different and be the talk of the town after your wedding. De Hoek Hotel hosts exclusive weddings. If you live in and around Gauteng, this would be a perfect venue as it will be easy for your guests to attend, including your friends and family from the North West, Pretoria and Joburg. No excuses.

Package includes:

Venue hire from 12pm to 5:30pm, including standard white table linen, tables, chairs, cutlery and crockery, waiters, banqueting manager.
5-course wedding menu

The package, however, excludes flowers, a photographer, make-up artist, hair stylist, beverages, overtime, entertainment and music as well as tiffany chairs for the ceremony, and gratuity or hiring of any decor.

Price: R45 000 for a maximum 60 guests.

Only available from Sunday to Thursday

ENJOY YOUR HONEYMOON

Might as well stay over after your big day once everyone else has left. Spend two nights for R8 225 per couple.

Package includes:
Day 1

Arrival and check in from 2pm
Signature five-course dinner
Accommodation
Bubble bath with rose petals in the room after dinner

Day 2

Breakfast
Light lunch
Signature five-course dinner
Accommodation

Day 3

Breakfast
Check out

ROMANTIC WEEKEND

This is for when you don’t mind splurging – maybe your partner’s birthday? You and your partner can enjoy a one night stay at De Hoek Country Hotel. This might be great for your relationship as the country hotel is far from things that could distract you. You can enjoy the hotel’s signature five-course dinner instead of fast food on the run, or take a long, slow bubble bath with rose petals, instead of the usual three-minute shower. If you are adventure freaks or just want to try something new, I suggest you go for a mountain walk. You will see some of the most beautiful and green trees.

Package includes:

Goody basket on arrival
Room check in from 2pm
De Hoek Refresher as pre-dinner drink
Signature five-course dinner
Accommodation & breakfast

Price: R4 375 per couple per night.

TRAIN AS A CHEF

Young, inspired matriculants who would like to learn the art of professional cooking can do so in the heart of the country at the country hotel. The training is done over a period of three years, in the constant pressure of a high performing kitchen, producing high standards of cuisine. Determination, motivation and discipline are required. There is a six-week block release for HTA theory within a year. After three years, any kitchen will gladly accept someone whose education has been developed in this environment.

FIND YOURSELF

It’s so easy to get lost in your work, relationship, friends and family responsibilities that you end up forgetting about yourself. This is exactly what I have been going through lately and, after a visit to De Hoek Country Hotel, I can safely say I’m in a better place. It’s ok to travel alone (plus it’s cheaper). Magaliesburg is beautiful in every way, you might even forget that you’re close to Joburg because you will see beautiful green trees and breathe in the freshest air. Once you’ve checked in, take a walk, feel the grass on your feet, take a deep breath and enjoy living. I felt so liberated the morning after taking a walk and meditating – something I have never done. The calmness there will make you want to do things you wouldn’t normally do. So, when you feel like your life is stale, get out of your house and take a detour to Magaliesburg.