The Barracks, Tocal

I stayed in the Hazel suite two nights for work. Arriving the dark was difficult because the entrance was difficult to see from the highway, driving at 80-100 km/h. The property was also not lit and navigating also a little tricky once past the main gate. Parking was at the rear of the building. Unfortunately there were no sensor lights and again, I had trouble finding the key safe. You require a torch to enter the code in the key safe in the dark. I did not have a torch. Dragging my suitcase over the gravel, I thought I would break the wheels. I am surprised that these details have not been thought out. The accommodation is lovely and cozy. Lights and the fireplace downstairs has also been turned on. Cleanliness is impeccable. It is a very rustic and cozy abode. The steep staircase meant that I kept my suitcase downstairs because it would take too much effort to haul it up. Steep staircase also made going to the toilet in the middle of the night a little precarious. The living room is cozy although the fireplace did little to warm up the space, with very little heat throw. I loved that the lighting throughout is warm instead of the cool white that many accommodation has. Power points on the wall are not many but enough. The bathroom is well-stocked with amenities such as toilet paper, tissue and quality full-size toiletries. The cotton bath robes is a lovely touch. Like some accommodations, the lack of a face washer is why I always pack my own. There is a small kitchennet with coffee maker, kettle, two of each – cups, mug, wine glass, spoon etc. There is a tea towel but no real washing-up facility such as dish detergent and the only tap is in the bathroom. Perhaps more suited for short stays and rely on housekeeping. (When I am working away from home, I am usually booked self-contained accommodation.) This would be lovely for people who do not intend to prepare food. There is a tiny fridge enough to hold mini bottles of water, but smaller than mini fridge. There is complimentary small bottles of water, milk. No ice. Upstairs where the bedroom is situated, there is a wall heater. With the adjustable fan speed, I was able to bring up the temperature and chose to stay here in the cold evenings, although no door to keep the heat in. All the furnishings are of high-quality. There are wooden floorboards. There is a tallboy and two bedside tables, but no wardrobe. There are also drawers under the bed. The few small windows meant that the accommodation is rather dark during the daytime. Expansive views of the property is very peaceful. This is a row of four accommodation side-by-side. The property itself is quiet but not so soundproof such that I cannot hear conversations when others are standing outside my door. You also need to keep the curtains closed if you do not wish people walking by to see inside, as there is no sheer curtain. Wi-Fi is very fast. Mobile reception is not the best. I did not require room service and breakfast hamper,

Quiet and peaceful, historical buildings within a working farm. Very generous breakfast hamper. So much more enjoyable than a generic hotel! Staircase to the bedrooms steep so May not suit those with limited mobility.

Loved The Barracks from the moment we drove past the gates and got to say hello to the two beautiful Clydesdales onsite. The room was very well presented, clean, comfy and perfect for a romantic get away with hubby. Couldn't ask for anything more.

The Barracks at Tocal were a fabulous getaway for us the night before, and the night of our wedding. The rooms were clean, inviting and were finished with beautiful touches like stocked fridges and breakfast baskets.

We loved our stay at The Barracks. It has everything:nature,history and luxury. Our suite,The Hazell,has been beautifully restored. The bedroom is situated upstairs,with sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The living area and bathroom are downstairs. A yummy complimentary breakfast is provided. Sitting out on the verandah,looking at the lush surrounds,is so relaxing. The pigs are adorable! We received a lovely card and beautifully-wrapped gift (a book outlining the history of the property) for our anniversary! As well as a late checkout! Yet another plus was not having to wash up!

A beautiful location. The rooms are well-appointed and have thoughtful attention to detail. We could not fault the place. We would highly recommend The Barracks and hope to visit again for a weekend getaway.