I really must apologise for neglecting you like that. You know how much I love you and you know that it hurts me when you are sad. But I do have a very valid reason.

And yes, I did remember to bring a note:

 

 

I really had no idea that Le Quartier Français was in fact another world which you step into upon arrival. The Franschhoek experience itself is quite magnificent but the return to the “hotel” puts everything into place.. THIS, is where it’s at. People don’t stay here whilst in Franschhoek, people visit Franschhoek whilst staying at Le Quartier .

A wonderland of sorts, with lush intricate pathways taking you to places you never imagined. They’re all interlinked and on your way you might pass a couple of swimming pools, and maybe even a spa or a private cinema. But you’ll ALWAYS end up in one of the restaurants, and it is quite apparent THAT is where the soul of this place lies. Or the Yellowtail, as was the case today (pan fried with pickled fennel quinoa, lemon mousse and coriander beurre blanc). I would tell you it was out of this world, but that would be stating the obvious, because that’s where we are.

 

The one side of the Le Quartier Français Bistro restaurant

The Yellowtail
Comes highly recommended

 

I placed the word “hotel” in inverted commas earlier, as I don’t believe it is – that just wouldn’t be fair. Between the previous paragraph and this, I sauntered inside my Four Quarters Suite (one of four, with private pool) in the search of Le Quartier Français literature – hoping to see if it was indeed referred to as a “hotel.”

The first thing I found was a guest book, with messages from previous lodgers, mostly international guests from Europe and beyond. I was quite taken aback by an entry which seemed to magically end my quest, by nailing it 100% on the head.

 

27th Dec 2007:

This is a sad day for us as we are once again having to say goodbye to the best place we have ever had the pleasure to be a guest at.

I don’t use the word “hotel” on purpose – this is more like being a loved & treasured guest in a very luxurious home!!

And to the lucky person reading this – relax and enjoy! You will never find better than Le Quartier Francais

Lou Tel – UK

 

Thanks, Lou. I don’t know about you, but I’m pretty close to tears.

But more importantly, I hope this helps to subdue the pain you’re feeling inside from your neglect at the hands of the person you trust and adore…. and worship. I’m kidding.

I’m just going for a dip in the pool now. We had to pass on the Le Quartier Francais “public pool” when we remembered we had a pool of our own at the Four Quarters Villa Suite .

 

The “public pool”
Shame!

We completely forgot the Four Quarters private pool!
God, can you IMAGINE!

 

Right here.

Right now.

There is loads more to tell you.

But, for now, allow me to indulge.