Mount Grace Country House & Spa is ideal for a dose of relaxation

Getting a massage isn’t just about how much pressure the therapist uses to knead those kinks and bumps out of one’s body. It’s also a valuable opportunity for mental “me time” and an opportunity to forget about all your problems.

The trick is to book an out-of-town massage as an excuse to literally drive your problems away.

I’m not advocating shirking life’s daily responsibilities but with the current stress and anxiety statistics in South Africa, I am thoroughly encouraging a short left getaway to the stress-free Magaliesburg area, in the North West province.

The African Pride Mount Grace Country House & Spa is the ideal getaway for a weekend of relaxation and downright vegging.

This luxury hotel has been known by this name since 2013, when the Hospitality Property Fund that owns it renewed their partnership with the African Pride hotel group.

Just 90 minutes out of Joburg’s northern suburbs, the Mount Grace is far enough to feel like a getaway to the countryside.

The Mount Grace has been around for years and is still going strong. Decorated with a strong countryside influence, the various rooms have wooden balconies that overlook the mountain view.

King Luxury Guest Room.

Rooms are kept simple with the touch of a spot of colour that is usually accented by a brightly shaded plush couch or chair.

There are 121 rooms ranging in size and price, and a large dining area with a few restaurants.

There are some great activities for those who love the great outdoors, including cycling with bike trails that have been created to accommodate this activity with varying distances for riders who want to test their skill.

Tennis or driving out for an early morning ride on a hot air balloon are the other options, but I didn’t go there for that. Relaxation and food were the key focus of the short trip.

Country picnic.

Highly recommended on the award-winning spa menu is the 90-minute hot stone massage that is not only indulgent but infuses heat into every tender and sore spot of your body, gently nudging it out as the therapist works out all your pressures.

Next to the spa is a fitness centre equipped with free weights and cardio equipment. Guests can also take a short dip in the heated pool.

Rambling Vine was the restaurant of choice for dinner. It serves an ala carte menu and food made by internationally renowned chef Stuart McClarty who cooks sumptuous dishes for the meat eater and vegan alike.

Twist Restaurant buffet.

I was told that McClarty is so passionate about the art of foodmaking that he has developed a different way of making butternut ciabatta and sour dough. The stuff of legends they say. But his style involves allowing food to cook slowly.

The Twist restaurant, that is reserved for buffets, is where breakfast is served – and it has a large food offering.

Info

• The hotel is currently running a special for people interested in leisure. The Country Getaway special is from R860 per person sharing per night.
• Address: Old Rustenburg Rd, Magaliesburg, 1791
• Phone: 014 577 5600
• mountgracecountryhouse.com

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