A stay at the Houw Hoek Hotel is as wonderful as I remember

About 12 years ago we spent an amazing New Years weekend at the Houw Hoek Hotel and we’ve been dying to go back. That stay was filled with laughter, great food, beautiful views and a dinner dance that was one of the best evenings ever. Last month we got to do it again.

Houw Hoek Hotel

Houw Hoek Hotel

When we arrived at the hotel we were greeted with friendly smiles, roaring fires and a tranquil atmosphere that makes you feel at home the moment you step foot inside. Even though we haven’t been there in years, it felt familiar; like we were visiting an old friend.

The Houw Hoek Hotel was built in 1779 and is situated 80 km from Cape Town, in the heart of the Kogelberg Nature Reserve. The backdrop of majestic mountains makes the Houw Hoek Hotel a perfect place to unwind.

Houw Hoek Inn

The hotel has 77 rooms that range from double to family. The Houw Hoek Hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway or a break with the family. There are two game rooms and loads of outdoor activities for the kids, as well as hiking and mountain biking trails. Plus two sparkling pools  to keep you cool in summer.

Houw Hoek Hotel

The rooms have everything you need – a minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities, DSTV, room service and free wifi. Most rooms also have private balconies with magnificent views and a fireplace. What more can you ask for to spark a little romance?!

Houw Hoek Hotel room

The Houw Hoek Hotel pub holds very special memories for me. I can remember tagging along when I was little and having a milkshake while my dad enjoyed a cold beer. Don’t tell anyone!

Houw Hoek Hotel Pub

The pub is old and quaint and full of character. A drink in the pub is a must. And so is a drink on the terrace enjoying the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

The Houw Hoek Hotel Dinner Dance

The traditional Houw Hoek Hotel Saturday Dinner Dance is what we were most looking forward to.  The Dinner Dance is held in the Barn and the setting is absolutely gorgeous.

Houw Hoek Hotel Dinner and Dance

The three course meal (which included a dessert buffet and a cheese spread to die for) was delicious and the atmosphere was romantic.

Houw Hoek Dinner

I started to get worried as I dusted off my dancing shoes in anticipation of this evening but the crowd didn’t look like they did the same… boy was I wrong! The minute the lights dimmed and the music started, ties were loosened and feet hit the dance floor. It was a spectacular night.

Houw Hoek offers a great Dinner Dance and Accommodation combo that we will be taking advantage of again very soon.

Did I mention that a full breakfast buffet is included in your stay? We enjoyed our breakfast basking in the winter sun on the terrace. It was perfection.

Houw Hoek Hotel Breakfast

The Houw Hoek Hotel truly is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle. It is also an ideal wedding and conference venue.

Construction is also currently under way and I can’t wait to visit soon to experience the beauty of the new additions to this already majestic place and its old-world charm.

Houw Hoek Hotel Grabouw

I am looking forward to many more memories made at the Houw Hoek Hotel.

Visit www.houwhoekhotel.com and make sure to book your memorable stay.

 

Disclosure Ranking: 2

Ellips Hair Vitamin Treatment is freakin’ awesome

Ellips Hair Vitamin treatment capsules are the shizz and you’ll soon be wondering how you’ve managed without them for so long. For real.

Ellips Hair Vitamin Treatment

Ellips Hair Vitamin Treatment

Ellips Hair Treatments are natural hair oils and vitamins from Indonesia which are enriched with Argan oil to provide strength, vitality and nourishment to a range of hair types.

The Ellips Hair Vitamin range includes five variants of capsules to suit a wide variety of hair types. We have tried the lot and they are fabulous!

All Ellips hair treatments are formulated with Argan oil and contain Pro-Vitamin B5 and Vitamins A and E. These treatments nourish the hair from within whilst beautifying from the outside.

Ellips Hair Vitamin Treatment

When I snipped open my first capsule, the 1ml content did not look like it would be nearly enough to cover my hair. Note: I like using loads of product. And, even though my hair is short, these dry curls lap up product. Surprise, surprise… it’s the perfect amount. The same counts for Cara’s long hair.

These pretty little gems leave your feeling and looking great. And the shine is insane.

And (almost) the best part …

All products are cruelty-free and use gelatine-based biodegradable capsules to ensure that they remain environmentally friendly at all times.

Pink Hair Repair

Designed to provide intensive moisture to hair that has been damaged from excessive heat styling. Vitamin C and Jojoba Oil deliver rapid repair action to transform dry and damaged hair into smooth, shiny locks. Available in a 12 capsule pack (R89), 50 capsule jar (R333) and Hair Mask (R132).

Ellips Hair Vitamin

Yellow Smooth & Shiny

A light and nourishing treatment that is ideal to help treat fine hair without weighing it down. The treatment includes Aloe Vera to keep hair moisturised and protected from the sun. Available in a 12 capsule pack (R89), 50 capsule jar (R333) and Hair Mask (R132).

Ellips Hair Vitamins

Orange Hair Vitality

Formulated to restore strength and vitality to hair that has become dry and brittle . The replenishing properties of Ginseng and Honey help prevent breakages and actively reinforce the hair structure. Available in a 12 capsule pack (R89) and 50 capsule jar (R333).

Ellips Hair Vitamin

Purple Nutri Colour

A treatment infused with conditioning ingredients to help care for highlighted and coloured hair. Hair remains healthy, shiny and full of life through a unique combination of vitamins, amino acids and other active ingredients. These provide protection from the sun as well as other environmental aggressors that cause colour to fade over time. Available in a 12 capsule pack (R89) and 50 capsule jar (R333).

Ellips Hair Vitamins

Silky Black

Specifically targeted to address the needs of very thick or dark hair. Shine is greatly enhanced and hair is made soft and manageable through the combined use of Candlenut Oil and Aloe Vera. This includes a natural form of sun protection for the hair. Available in a 12 capsule pack (R89), 50 capsule jar (R333) and Hair Mask (R132).

Ellips Hair Vitamin Treatment capsules (and other fabulous Ellips products) are available online at www.ellipshair.co.za and on Takealot. To keep up to date with this awesome hair brand, follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Here’s to fabulous hair days thanks to Ellips!

xoxo

Disclosure Ranking: 2