Our first impression of Fairlawn’s was that it was a nice hotel, like a good book with slightly worn but obviously well-loved cover. But we soon came to experience that this is a really special place, and to appreciate and luxuriate in the ‘story’ of this lovely, stately and relaxing sanctuary.
Formerly the private estate of the Oppenheimer family, then the private home of now-owners John and Anna Thacker, this 39 room/suite boutique hotel has a serene and calming ambiance that was the perfect gateway night to our East African adventure.
We stayed in the Nelson Mandela room and it is stunning, with every possible amenity. We had some wonderful dinner choices (highly recommend the calamari and seared tuna starters if they are on the menu) and both the meal and the wine were so reasonably priced.
What we loved:
- Park-like grounds with grand mature trees and a sampling of the bird-life to come on our safaris
- Restful and relaxing pool areas with inviting cabanas… if only we had an afternoon to spend there with a book
- Tasteful, elegant furnishings, different in every room
- Lovely niches for different experiences: terrace overlooking the grounds, cozy library, bar with wood fireplace, dining room with floor to ceiling windows
- Attentive, friendly and helpful staff (if a bit unprofessional in a couple of small instances)
- Excelllent breakfast buffet, fresh, varied and included with the room
Breakfast buffet at Fairlawn’s
You can find many more details and pictures at: http://fairlawns-hotel.co.za/
Our East African Adventure created by Khashana: http://khashana.com/