Possibly the finest accommodation in Swellendam, on South Africa’s Garden Route, Augusta de Mist is a lifestyle retreat set on over 2 ha of eclectic fynbos. This hideaway from the hustle is located in the historic Drostdy Quarter of Swellendam and in typical Cape fashion tells the old stories of this old Overberg town in a deeply romantic 1802 Cape Dutch homestead with more original features than you can shake a stick at. The grounds, always in bloom with the indigenous, go on forever and provide a true African backdrop.
The homestead’s shutters are yellowwood and the ironmongery original, as indeed are the reed ceilings which are held together by 200+ year-old mud and clay. No wonder then that the homestead, Park Villa, is a National Monument. During his 2013 visit to Swellendam, Park Villa was host to Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Augusta de Mist guest house in Swellendam on the Garden Route has a solid reputation for it’s breathtaking gardens, attention to detail, excellent service, interior design, luxury as well as some of the finest food in the Overberg. Wander past the pool, over seasonal streams to stumble upon the garden cottages. Augusta’s allure is obvious: simple white structures, reminiscent of the historic cottages of this region, reed ceilings, contemporary interiors and art, bucolic views and indigenous planting.
The interiors at Augusta are vibrant. It reflects the personal journeys of the owners: all art, craft, and furniture on the estate come from a large collection of vintage items and antiques, all with a story. We take our inspiration from mother Africa – the most vibrant continent. It is defined by its intoxicating colours and patterns; sounds of nature, music and laughter: aromas of earth, rain and ripe fruit. There is no place for bland. No time for being predictable and certainly no colour palette for beige.
Our single goal is to ensure that our guests have the most memorable visits. Augusta de Mist is no ordinary guest establishment. It is not your average B&B. There is no reception. No formalities. You are greeted at your vehicle by the owner who will escort you to your suite while pointing out the highlights of the estate and the town. And before long our guests realise that staying at Augusta de Mist is not like staying at a hotel at all. You are staying with friends.
