Strathdon Bungalow Reviews


Our Review

Overall Rating:
7.0
Reviewed:
09-Nov-2012

It’s always a joy to stay in such evocative surroundings and take a trip back in time. Strathdon Bungalow manages to combine the sensitivities of yesteryear – both in terms of ambiance and hospitality – with today’s essential comforts and modernities. The bungalow dates back over a century, however the current management performed the latest refurb back in 2010 so plush sofas, thick duvets, dozens of cushions and bedspreads all nestle nicely into a setting reminiscent of days gone by. The caretaker of the bungalow has worked on the estate since 1983 so if you need to know something about the house, or indeed the estate, he’s your man and more than happy to tell a tale or two! He’s also incredibly courteous and did all he could to make us feel at home. Since he’s also the chef (his curries are absolutely delicious), he loves nothing more than seeing his guests’ plates empty. The bungalow has an unusual layout. Most of the bedrooms and living rooms lead off a central passageway (some with windows into it) and the dining room tucked to the back of the house is not particularly atmospheric as it feels a little out of the way (as does bedroom 2, the smaller of the two triples). You may find it nicer to either sit out on the front veranda to eat (weather permitting), which is a wonderful place for breakfast, or ask for the tables to be set up in the sociable hallway, as this setting feels much more convivial. The manager of Strathdon Bungalow, Siri, also manages two neighbouring sister-properties and he pops in to visit guests regularly and can be called upon anytime. He’s a friendly character and a wealth of knowledge on the local area.

Individual Scores:

Character/Charm:8 Location:7 Outside Area:8
Living Area:7 Bedrooms:7 Bathrooms:6
Kitchen:6 Facilities:5 Staff:8
Value:8
Highlights

This bungalow is spacious yet cosy. Although its colonial ambiance has been retained, the level of comfort in the bungalow has been brought up to date (although the bathrooms still lag a little behind). The gardens are glorious and always in full bloom so those with green fingers will love it here – check out the giant bamboo! The views back up the valley towards Hatton are stunning.

Surprises

The bungalow comes with few entertainment facilities, and there is no swimming pool. If the heavens open as they often do here in the hill country, you may be grateful for a few books and board games to keep you occupied so do come prepared, especially if you have kids in tow. The nights are fresh and often cool at this elevation so you may need to pack a light jumper or two. The kitchen is not set up for guests, but with a chef to cater to your requirements, we don’t think this is a room you’re likely to miss! The bathroom of bedroom 3 has ventilation panels into the central hallway so sounds escape and it’s not particularly private. Despite renovations, the bathrooms, as a whole (and especially the tubs) are still quite basic.
Strathdon Bungalow /villa/strathdon-bungalow.aspx Price starts at $0 - $0 per night
7 out of 10
based on 1 user reviews. It’s always a joy to stay in such evocative surroundings and take a trip back in time. Strathdon Bungalow manages to combine the sensitivities of yesteryear – both in terms of ambiance and hospitality – with today’s essential comforts and modernities. The bungalow dates back over a century, however the current management performed the latest refurb back in 2010 so plush sofas, thick duvets, dozens of cushions and bedspreads all nestle nicely into a setting reminiscent of days gone by. The caretaker of the bungalow has worked on the estate since 1983 so if you need to know something about the house, or indeed the estate, he’s your man and more than happy to tell a tale or two! He’s also incredibly courteous and did all he could to make us feel at home. Since he’s also the chef (his curries are absolutely delicious), he loves nothing more than seeing his guests’ plates empty. The bungalow has an unusual layout. Most of the bedrooms and living rooms lead off a central passageway (some with windows into it) and the dining room tucked to the back of the house is not particularly atmospheric as it feels a little out of the way (as does bedroom 2, the smaller of the two triples). You may find it nicer to either sit out on the front veranda to eat (weather permitting), which is a wonderful place for breakfast, or ask for the tables to be set up in the sociable hallway, as this setting feels much more convivial. The manager of Strathdon Bungalow, Siri, also manages two neighbouring sister-properties and he pops in to visit guests regularly and can be called upon anytime. He’s a friendly character and a wealth of knowledge on the local area.
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