We are excited to introduce the newest addition to the Southern Spoor portfolio – The Hawthorn Boutique Hotel in George.
A much-loved George landmark has been thoughtfully restored and reimagined, and we are thrilled to be part of its next chapter.
Set in Heatherlands, with the Outeniqua Mountains as its backdrop, The Hawthorn is a five-star boutique hotel with a story that goes back generations. Once known as the Hawthorndene Hotel, it was a familiar part of life in George from the 1940s onwards. Its gardens, tall palms and resident peacocks were part of the landscape, while the hotel itself was a popular setting for weddings, Sunday lunches, family gatherings and evenings out.
After standing empty for a number of years, the property was purchased in 2017 and carefully restored. Much of the character of the original hotel has been retained, while the property has been brought into a new era as a five-star, Art Deco-styled historic landmark.
For Southern Spoor, The Hawthorn is a natural addition to our portfolio. We love its history, its character and the way it has been brought back as a distinct George property. Its beautiful setting and unique sense of place make it an extraordinary venue, while its owner-run, hands-on approach brings a personal touch and warmth to the guest experience, creating the kind of memorable moments that guests take with them.
With 39 rooms and suites, The Hawthorn offers a relaxed and intimate stay. Guests can enjoy The Forester Restaurant overlooking the gardens, unwind with a drink at the Pronk Bar or settle into the Art Deco Lounge and Bay Lounge. The gardens and swimming pool provide space to relax, with the hotel’s mix of dining and leisure spaces making it easy to settle in and enjoy the property. The hotel is also conveniently located for both business and leisure travel, just 10 km from George Airport and with easy access to the wider Garden Route.
The Hawthorn also offers a beautiful setting for corporate and private events. With executive boardrooms and conference facilities accommodating up to 120 delegates, the hotel is well suited to conferences, corporate retreats and team gatherings, while its comfortable accommodation and dining spaces allow groups to enjoy their time together beyond the formal programme. A dedicated wedding venue also makes it a versatile choice for special occasions.
What we particularly love about The Hawthorn is the way its past has been retained while the property has been given a fresh and welcoming feel for today’s traveller. The result is a hotel that feels rooted in George, while offering all the comforts of a contemporary boutique property.
Southern Spoor already represents a number of landmark properties along the Garden Route, and adding The Hawthorn gives us a presence in George and completes an important part of the route for our portfolio.
We’re excited to introduce The Hawthorn to our trade partners and look forward to seeing your clients discover all that this special property and its surroundings have to offer.
