The Best Places To Stay In The Cape Winelands

The Best Places To Stay In The Cape Winelands

High on the must-see lists of most holiday-makers to South Africa are the Cape Winelands, and with good reason: you can’t help but be seduced by their world-class wines, glorious natural beauty and elegant Cape Dutch-style buildings. There are so many amazing accommodation options to choose from when planning your Cape Winelands holiday, so to help you make the right decision, we asked our South Africa specialists to suggest some of their very favourites.

1. La Residence

Part of Liz Biden's highly renowned Royal Portfolio hotel group, La Residence is a uber-luxurious hideaway set in the tranquil vineyards of Franschhoek Valley. The multi-awarding winning property boasts 16 suites and villas which are uniquely decorated in an eclectic and luxurious manner whilst retaining a certain rustic simplicity and elegance, all with a French twist. All your needs are taken care of here with the attention to detail and customer service being the order of the day, yet from the minute you walk in there is a relaxed homely feel as though you have always been there or an old friend returning. Activities available in and around the property include swimming, tennis, village and mountain walks and private wine tasting of various estates. La Residence can also provide all your meals and they do this to a very high standard too. A truly 7 star experience from start to finish.

2. Le Quartier Francais

Set within peaceful gardens in the shadow of rugged mountain scenery, Le Quartier Francais has a relaxed, contemporary feel, reflected in the bright colours and simple architecture used throughout. Most of the spacious rooms and suites look out over a central courtyard filled with flowers and a discreet pool, and are furnished in a tasteful, unpretentious manner. The attention to detail is as high as any international five-star hotel, yet the ambience is much less formal and more welcoming. From here you can head out to explore the town or surrounding countryside before returning to a glass of the region’s fine wine.

3. Grand Dedale Country House

Grand Dedale is a charming, welcoming and idyllic retreat set within an award winning Wine Estate that offers sweeping views of the surrounding area. The exclusive and elegantly restored Cape Dutch Manor House, formerly the private residence of the owners comprises of six luxurious and bespoke rooms and suites that feature all the amenities you could desire. Imaginative cuisine is served in private dining rooms or al fresco on the grand veranda overlooking the mountains. Facilities on the Estate include a large outdoor swimming pool, a spa room, hiking and mountain bike trails, various walks and a wine tasting centre. A wide variety of activities including horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, river rafting and golf, are also just a short drive away.

4. Babylonstoren

Babylonstoren is one of the best preserved farms of the Cape Dutch tradition. The manor house dates from 1777 and some of the buildings date back to the founding of the farm in 1692. The working farm is a great place to relax and makes a wonderful base from which to explore the Winelands. The farm is spread over 200 hectares where you can enjoy guided walks around the grounds or simply stroll at your leisure. There is also a spa on site, a gym to use and you can either swim or take a boat out in the dam. Picnic lunches and dinners can also be arranged, as can sundowners over a glass of the local wine.

5. The Last Word Franschhoek

Located just seconds away from the many wonderful restaurants, boutiques and galleries of Franschhoek, The Last Word Franschhoek is a Huguenot-style villa which has been beautifully restored using a fusion of the classic with the contemporary. Eight superior double rooms and two pool suites provide guests with private retreats, complemented by elegantly designed public areas including a pool and courtyard. A truly blissful experience.