You'd never believe me, if I told you that Hudsons on Twelfth is nestled pretty close to the N1 highway in Rivonia if I had to just drop you off there. It was the 1st thing that I noticed when I arrived on a Friday afternoon. You don't hear any traffic! What a wonderful feeling to still be in the city, but feel like you have left the city?
Established back in 1995, the then 'Melleney's' was one of the 1st guest houses in the area with only 4 rooms, which was later renamed. Hudsons on Twelfth has since then been under new ownership of Caroline Hudson, who has been doing renovations to keep the property oozing with the old school charm.
The gardens are still filled with some of the original features from when the property opened & sure add to the look & old school - English Country House feel.
There are now a full 10 en-suite bedrooms, that have been individually decorated & done up with some of the original home ornaments. From your room, you could find yourself overlooking your own private garden, the classic gardens & sparkling pool or the forest that stretches out to the end of the property.
Still feeling the old school vibes, yet with the modern renovations, the rooms have just about everything that you'll need. And if it's not there, you just call through to the reception & it's sorted out for you.
The room we stayed in was large & done up elegantly. An added bonus in this room, is the under-roof, outdoor shower. A must mention, is the linen. I need to find myself some of that linen. It makes your stay so much better when you get into a comfortable bed at night, that has incredible linen. You won't be disappointed.
And then it was dinner time. The evening's dinner was prepared by Chef Wayne Burgin from Chef Knows Best & this is where we got to sit, have dinner & enjoy the evening.
The Amuse Bouche - a Springbok Carpaccio served on a Crostini.
The Starter - a Tian of Tomato & Basil Pesto, served with a Parmesan Crisp & Raspberry Vinaigrette.
Main Course - Beef Fillet wrapped in Prosciutto served with a leak & pea puree on mash.
Dessert - Melted Chocolate Fondant, Raspberry Macarons, Chocolate Cake Crumble & Berries.
What an incredible evening of dinner. You should definitely check out Chef Wayne Burgin & Chef Knows Best, they have some really cool concepts that they work with, which you may actually be in need of.
Breakfast the next morning was served in the dining room. It's a picture perfect haven to enjoy your freshly homemade breakfast after a wonderful evening of rest.
One thing to remember, is that Caroline Hudson wants to keep the old school elements of the property, as that is what makes it so unique. So if you are looking for that ultra modern/state of the art kind of night stay, then this one won't be for you. But, if you are one to enjoy the finer elegance of the years gone by, then this is where you want to find yourself spending some time thinking about the days gone by.
