C’est Magnifique!

Surely, once in your lifetime (or maybe even more than once) you have dreamt of a Parisian holiday. Jetting off to the land of love, spending a few glorious weeks feasting on croissants, éclairs and crepes. Now, let me let you into a secret: there is a spot right here in Durban North that will whisk you away to the land of berets and lilting accents – and you don’t even have to jump on a ‘plane. Take a stroll through Auberge Hollandaise with us… Auberge, directly translated from French, refers to an “inn in a French-speaking country”. Hollandaise, another French word, refers to “anything Dutch”. A marriage of these two European cultures – French and Dutch – could only produce a bespoke type of beauty. Effortless charm, a smattering of rich luxury finished off with liberal lashings of class: that’s Auberge Hollandaise. The fivestar luxury guesthouse, located on Kenneth Kaunda Drive in the plush suburb of Durban North, belongs to the Misty Blue Group; the company purchased the property in (2013). A stone walkway wraps around the guesthouse invitingly, lending itself to an authentic experience from the minute you step out of your vehicle. Thoughtfully positioned, carefully pruned shrubbery softens the exterior and cultivates a daydream of walking hand-in-hand with one’s beloved. While imposing and voluminous, the entrance is inviting and welcoming. Through the double doors and an exquisite chandelier winks overhead in the opulent entrance hall…and a grand staircase winds its way up against a creamy coloured wall. The overall look and feel of Auberge Hollandaise drips with stately luxury, from the accents of dark wood and leather couches, to the antique fireplaces, to the upholstered chairs, to the gilded mirrors hung at strategic points throughout the guesthouse. Each piece was carefully chosen to reflect the ultimate in design and relaxation. Rich tones of deep red, burnt orange, creamy beiges and taupe are used throughout the guesthouse, from the entrance hall to each custom-designed suite. Exposed ceiling beams augment the wide, airy spaces – paradoxically, Auberge Hollandaise is intriguing in that it is cosy without feeling claustrophobic. The exterior is just as magnificent as the interior; this is where it really feels like a few hours on the French Riviera. Quaint glass tables and large umbrellas dot the terrace, overlooking a glistening swimming pool. Whitewashed shutters add to the ambiance. The features of Auberge Hollandaise accentuate the sublime décor: a fully equipped gymnasium and conference facilities, seating up to 30 delegates. The guesthouse is also a popular venue for intimate weddings. There are plans to include a boutique five star spa on the premises, which would only add to the overall splendour of Auberge Hollandaise. Delicious design and sumptuous furnishings make Auberge one of the premiere guesthouses on the East Coast.