Castello di Monte was launched as a Tuscan 5-star guesthouse 10 years ago and has grown from strength to strength, establishing a sterling reputation for offering bespoke hospitality.
Elegantly nestled in the lush green hills of Waterkloof Ridge, the classic Italianate beauty overlooks the spectacular green belt bordering Eastern Pretoria as well as the famous Pretoria Country Club. The beautifully sculpted gardens, mature olive trees, lavender hedges and de-stressing water features complement the tranquil charm of Cestello, only minutes from the bustling city.
Favoured by diplomats, business and leisure travellers as well as locals savouring the fine-dining establishment’s romantic accommodation, Castello, as it is fondly known, also offers the added luxury of intimate special events and conferencing.
Originally created as a private home by the master builder Rudan Maritz, Castello’s owners of the past 10 years, Tilla and Pieter van Zyl fell in love with the property at first sight on completion in 2004 and purchased it to create an exclusive guesthouse. They added a further three en-suite rooms to the original six-bedroomed property, made some changes to befit a luxe establishment, with great attention to detail in the décor to complement the timeless elegance of the owner-run guesthouse.
Castello di Monte offers delectable private dining, which is subject to reservations 24-hours in advance to ensure dietary requirements for breakfasts, lunches, dinners, high teas and cocktail functions are planned in detail. From romantic dinners for two to intimate functions for up to 35 guests, Executive Chef Louis Vermaak has created culinary triumphs for guests time and again, resulting in Castello celebrating its 10th anniversary as a well-known special events establishment, whilst treated as a splendid private home-from-home by satisfied regular overnight visitors.
The comprehensive wine list includes popular wines such as La Motte Sauvignon Blanc, Rupert and Rothchild Classique and the ever-popular Buitenverwachting Meifort.
With the team’s focus on exceeding guests’ expectations, the most common feedback from regular visitors goes along the lines of: “Great service, beautiful property, what a view…,” says general manager Madeleen Jacobsz, who is also the owners’ daughter.
The 360-degree vistas from the generously designed terrace are famed for its all-year round panoramic beauty over the greenbelt of Pretoria, which includes those spectacular jacaranda avenues and glorious sunsets.
The owners and management’s dream for Castello di Monte is to continue striving for exceptional service, thereby creating unforgettable experiences for guests, who return regularly to create new and lasting memories.
Castello offers guests free Wi Fi, secure parking, luxurious accommodation, fine-dining and scrumptious breakfast.