Hacklewood Hill Country House: Our full report

A restored Victorian mansion, Hacklewood Hill Country House combines grace and elegance with contemporary comforts.

It is set in lush gardens in the tranquil suburb of Walmer, just a short drive from the heart of Port Elizabeth.

Antique furniture and large, curtain-draped windows set a tone of tranquility throughout Hacklewood Hill.

Just eight bedrooms welcome guests, each different in layout and décor, underpinning the sense of old-world hospitality. A traditional four-poster bed takes centre stage, flanked by wooden bedside tables. A comfortable sofa is a thoughtful touch, with fitted carpets adding warmth. Some rooms feature a fireplace; others, an attractive balcony. And in all you’ll find air conditioning, WiFi and satellite television.

In the en-suite bathrooms, claw-foot baths continue the theme, with separate showers and old-fashioned vanity units. Alongside fluffy white towels there are bathrobes – of course.

At the heart of the hotel, a comfortable lounge with an open fire is the perfect place to settle down with a drink or a book from the well-stocked library.

Chandeliers add sparkle to the dining room, where tables are draped with white tablecloths and set with silver cutlery. Seasonal menus are enhanced by a selection of wines from the hotel’s private cellar.

Step out on to the veranda and you’ll be greeted by beautifully tended gardens, featuring an array of indigenous plants and vibrant flowers. Dotted around are small tables and chairs, perfect for enjoying a cup of tea or coffee.

Shaded sunloungers surround a crystal-clear saltwater pool, where a refreshing dip beckons. A tennis court will appeal to some guests; a croquet lawn to others.

Hacklewood Hill works well as a retreat in its own right, or as a well-placed location for exploring Port Elizabeth.

Geographics

Location: Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Ideal length of stay: 1 - 2 nights
Accessible by: Self-drive

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Bed & Breakfast
Food quality: Fine dining is the aim of Hacklewood Hill’s chefs, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The breakfast menu, served 7.00–10.00am, incorporates a range of options, from a fruity porridge to a full cooked breakfast, with smoked salmon blinis, French toast and a selection of meats and cheeses added to the mix.

Light lunches are available between noon and 2.00pm.

Traditional afternoon tea is a highlight here, featuring an assortment of sandwiches, scones, pastries and cakes, together with an apple spritz.

Served between 6.00pm and 10.00pm, the dinner menu changes seasonally, with three or four choices of starter, main and dessert, including vegetarian options. In the summer months, for example, we’d be tempted by venison carpaccio, followed by grilled line fish on a bed of couscous with wilted spinach, seasonal vegetables and a lemon beurre, and rounded off with a chocolate lava pot.
Dining style: Individual Tables

Children

Attitude towards children

Communications

Communications: All rooms have WiFi access.
TV & radio: There’s a satellite TV in every bedroom.
Water supply: Mains

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended: No
Medical care: Quadbike warning: quad-biking is sometimes available as an activity from Hacklewood Hill Country House. As with any potentially dangerous activity, it’s vital that you take responsibility for ensuring that you have adequate travel insurance prior to getting involved. Be aware that some insurances cover quad-bike activities only for bikes with lower engine ratings: check such clauses particularly carefully before you get on a bike.
Dangerous animals
Fire safety