ENHLE MBALI ENJOYS A BRIDGERTON-INSPIRED HOTEL STAY AT HARTFORD HOUSE
Take a look around the picturesque property of the KZN’s award-winning Hartford House hotel with Enhle Mbali.
This week our adventure takes us to a recently renovated boutique hotel in the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands for a meander with Enhle Mbali and her friend Tlhogo Ngwato.
This Bridgerton-inspired space is a cosy retreat that’s not only ideal for the Winter months, but perfect for a honeymoon, anniversary or indulgent getaway. Situated on the 1000 hectares piece of land, the property consists of 2 restaurants, a manor house, chapel and stud.
Hartford House’s new owner, Henning Pretorius, is a leading breeder in the world of sport horses so was excited to show them to Enhle and share that the Summerhill Equestrian is home to European warmbloods that have a very thorough database of their breeding, and especially their dam lines.
“My journey started with a need to find a farm in the Midlands to keep my horses. I had been looking for one for four years as I come from the North West where we have a problem with horse sickness. I had to move my horses somewhere safe, and that’s what brought me to the midlands,” shares Henning.
After finding a new home for the horses, Henning turned his attention to the hotel and the process of renovations began.
To get the look and feel just right they enlisted the help of Elzabe Brent Interiors and Anne’s Interiors to style the 18 hotel rooms and experts Wyatt and Baker Architects to assist with the renovation of the historical building.
At the heart of any home is the cook and at Hartford House things are no different.
Hartford House has been a top destination for food lovers locally and abroad for a number of years, and the playground for many of South Africa’s best chefs. Recently appointed executive chef Paul Antelick is proud to be the latest addition to a long tradition of culinary legends and add his own stamp onto the menu, which now focuses on showcasing produced sourced from the area to guests.
Enhle spent some time learning from the culinary master, before savouring a six course meal of her own.
The actress, TV presenter and fashion designer who’s known for her maternity line that’s available through stores in South Africa and New York, appreciated every minute of the break away in this tranquil location.
“I try to take a holiday as often as I can. As a mother, career woman, fashionista, fashion designer, and, and, and (I wear many hats) and always try and just woosah. But with COVID it’s been pretty hard to do this.”
“This experience was very holistic for me. I would definitely come back to Hartford House in a heartbeat,” adds Enhle.
As someone who has been in the spotlight for some time, and having amassed a large following, many of whom are inspired by Enhle, we asked the star for her advice to the younger generations.
“Take all the best parts of the people you love, build on them and turn them into something great,” says Enhle.
