Cats and Lemon

Running a guesthouse in Stellenbosch means managing the practical realities of the Cape's winter rainfall and summer heat. Properties here contend with damp during the wet months, requiring careful attention to ventilation and rising damp prevention. The high season runs from November through March, when guests arrive expecting reliable power, functioning air-conditioning, and properly maintained cooling systems. Out-of-season, the focus shifts to maintenance—addressing water ingress from winter storms, servicing geysers and heat pumps, updating furnishings. Proximity to wine estates and restaurants shapes guest expectations; location within walking distance of town or a short drive to estates changes the property's appeal significantly. Seasonal load shedding affects operations too, making backup power increasingly important for competitiveness.