There are five properties in the collection, a luxury yacht charter as well as affiliations to high-end tour guides and The Mantis Collection that ties Last Word properties into safari packages.
We've had the pleasure to stay at every Last Word gem and while the properties have nothing to link them in terms of a standard décor they are all linked by intimate and superb service from concierge receptionists to skilled kitchen staff that prepare sumptuous breakfasts as well as afternoon tea treats and canapés with evening drinks. The largess is perhaps a little over the top. Expect a bottle of bubbles in an ice bucket and strewn rose petals when you return to your room in the evening while myriad burning tea-lights glisten in the bathroom.
Other than The Last Word Bishopscourt, all properties are within easy walking distance to good restaurants. Our most recent stay was at The Last Word Franschhoek, which shares a back wall with Col'Cacchio pizzeria. I was salivating for the duration of our visit from the smells of garlic pizzas.
I loved the fact that our Room 2 in the main building had folding glass windows that opens the pool facing window entirely. The narrow plunge pool runs the length of the house as a moat would. There is timber bridge to cross the pool to the large walled outside space with reclining chairs and a table. I could see an upper level window in an adjacent building but I'm not sure if they could see me. If you are shy I'd think twice about swimming sans bather as you see under the bridge into the neighbouring room's pool. It might be rather naughty to innocently book an illicit lover into Room One and clandestinely meet under the pool bridge for assignations. Best do that in summer as the pool isn't heated.
Like all Last Word properties, bathrooms are a feature. I recall a response to Cesar Ritz when he told the builder of The Savoy, London that he wanted a bathroom in every room and the builder enquired if the guests were amphibians. The bathrooms at Last Word properties are designed for amphibians who want the best; the bathrooms are characterised by massive tubs, huge double-headed showers, double vanities and private toilet. Ours even has cupboards on either end.
There is a Last Word blend of filter coffee in the rooms (and milk comes in a cute bottle) but once you've had coffee made for you by the staff, you won't make it yourself. Is it conceivable that we had the best coffee and pastries in Franschhoek at The Last Word?
The Last Word visit is all about catering to your personal needs. Let them know what you like to drink when you fill out guest preference forms and your inclusive mini-bar in your room will be stocked with it. From R4250 per room, this is accommodation at the top end but when you consider what is included, I think it offers terrific value especially if you take full advantage of what's offered. When we've stayed there, we have always used the property as a base to have business meetings or hook up with friends. The open bar in the lounge is stocked with premium products and feels generous.
In fact, staying there feels like living in a beautiful home without having to worry about the mortgage bond. To say the team are gracious hosts is the understatement of the year.
For more information go to www.thelastword.co.za.
