The 20 Best Hotels in Cape Town

Cape Town’s hotel scene is as dramatic, diverse and unapologetically magnificent as the city itself. From a converted silo perched above a world-renowned art gallery to heritage wine estates with Cape Dutch gables and centuries-old cellars, the Mother City and its surrounding Winelands offer superb accommodation experiences that extend far beyond thread counts and turndown service. And with Table Mountain the backdrop to every cityscape, and lingering sunsets over the ocean, the views are equally spectacular.

Understanding Cape Town’s hotel landscape

There’s a stay to suit every (travel) mood, from city-centre heritage and buzz, to contemporary Waterfront luxury, boutique gems with ocean views, or the garden-hugged tranquillity of the leafy southern suburbs. And that’s before even heading out to the vine-swathed settings of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek with their vast variety of luxury lodgings on wine farms.

Types of accommodation

• heritage hotels in historic buildings
• contemporary Waterfront luxury
• designer boutique hotels
• wine estates with luxury lodges
• country house hotels

Planning your visit around two or more properties gives you the chance to experience different facets of Cape Town’s sparkling scene. A city-centre stay for museums, galleries, restaurants and buzzing neighbourhood vibes, or the Waterfront for a walkable precinct overflowing with restaurants, boutiques, boats and more. Then there are boutique boltholes in leafy suburbs, or overlooking the ocean, all within an easy drive (or Uber ride) of all the attractions. Pick a Winelands base for part of your itinerary, as you need more than one day to explore even a fraction of the wine estates, farms, mountains and nature reserves around Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and the Helderberg, where there are just as many culinary adventures as in the heart of the city… and mesmerising views for miles.

One&Only Cape Town

Where V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
On the edge of the marina at the buzzing V&A Waterfront, hugged by views of Table Mountain, this glamorous resort raises the bar with its top-drawer dining offerings, luxurious accommodation, world-class facilities and superb service. Despite its central location, it offers guests space and tranquillity – you feel as if you are on a remote island resort. Which is why it’s unsurprisingly a bucket-list must-do for so many discerning travellers (and celebrities, too). Another luxurious feather in its cap is its island spa, surrounded by palm-treed gardens and waterways.
Insider detail Look out for beautiful decor details commissioned from local artists and artisans throughout the hotel, from the stunning mural and copper-tile installation at ROOI, to individually crafted pieces in the rooms, and handmade decorations over the festive season, connecting you with the rich cultural heritage of Cape Town.
What’s on offer

• 92 rooms and suites (one or two bedrooms) in the seven-storey main “Marina Rise” building, offering views of the harbour and Table Mountain
• 40 rooms and suites (one or two bedrooms) across the resort’s ‘island’, surrounded by water with views of the marina
• Table Mountain Suite (one bedroom, dining room, kitchen, gym and private butler)
• Presidential Suite (two bedrooms, dining room, kitchen, gym and private butler)
• Lion’s Head Penthouse (four bedrooms, study, indoor and outdoor dining areas, lounges, kitchens, outdoor entertaining spaces, pool, and two bars)
• Nobu restaurant for contemporary Japanese-Peruvian cuisine
• ROOI restaurant for refined fire-cooked South African flavours
• Isola for relaxed Mediterranean alfresco lunches by the pool
• Vista Bar & Lounge for exquisite afternoon teas, light meals and cocktails
• curated tastings and wine-blending experiences in the Wine Loft
• island spa with 13 treatment rooms; thermal suite of aroma-steam rooms, saunas, bubble-jet vitality pools and experience showers; the Relax Lounge (for complimentary healthy snacks, sweet treats and beverages); plus a spa garden
• gym facilities and personal training sessions
• swimming pool
• kids club with both outdoor and indoor play areas

Perfect for lovers of luxury looking for connection with the city and a walkable Waterfront destination; couples for spa-centred island romance; families seeking child-friendly service and facilities.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Cost From R16 840 per room per night (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

The Silo Hotel

Where V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Soaring above the surrounding design precinct (aptly called The Silo District), this striking hotel has undoubtedly made its mark on the city. Built in the six floors above the historical grain storage cylinders that now house Zeitz MOCAA, the property’s impressive architecture, with its eye-catching geometric windows, was masterminded by London-based Heatherwick Studio and hints at what lies within. A tastefully colourful interior, by owner Liz Biden, welcomes guests to an unforgettable experience where luxe comfort, warm and friendly service, contemporary dining, dizzyingly dramatic harbour and Table Mountain views, and a sun-kissed rooftop pool await.
Insider detail The hotel’s pillow-shaped windows were carved from the original concrete grain silos, each one unique due to the hand-cutting process. And the collection of contemporary African art collected by Liz Biden and displayed on the walls of the suites and public spaces is second to none.
What’s on offer

• 28 suites
• Penthouse Suite (one bedroom, two marble bathrooms, two balconies, cinema room and spa treatment room)
• The Granary Café for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner
• The Willaston Bar for cocktails and tapas
• The Silo Rooftop for sundowners and light meals
• contemporary African art throughout the hotel
• The Vault, the hotel’s exclusive subterranean art gallery
• tailored art tours with art concierge Michael Jacobs
• The Silo Spa with five treatment rooms and sauna
• gym
• rooftop swimming pool
• private dining for up to 22 guests in The Wisdom Room
• Zeitz MOCAA, the world’s largest contemporary African art museum just downstairs

Perfect for art enthusiasts; architecture lovers; guests seeking unique luxury accommodation in the heart of the bustling Waterfront.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R26 200 per room per night (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel

Where Gardens, Cape Town
When it comes to Cape Town icons, few can compare with the majestic Mount Nelson. The Pink Lady, as the five-star hotel is affectionately known, has been welcoming the celebrities of every era since it opened in 1899, with a delightful air of discretion and glamour. Not to mention a sense of timeless heritage and an oasis of lush gardens that cushions its enviable position in the vibrant heart of Cape Town (just off Kloof Street). Then there’s its exquisite afternoon tea (using the same china pattern introduced in 1925), superb cuisine and rejuvenating spa.
Insider detail The hotel was built when crinoline (hoop skirts) were en vogue, which is why the corridors are so wide – there’s sufficient space for two women to pass one another comfortably. Nowadays these wide corridors and halls display a succession of exhibitions of African art in collaboration with the Norval Foundation.
What’s on offer

• 198 rooms and suites
• Strelitzia Signature Suite, with 1930s lights and Baccarat crystal (one bedroom, separate living area, dining room, kitchenette, balcony with sunbeds)
• 6 Garden Cottage Suites, next to the rose garden (lounge, bedroom and kitchenette)
• Honeysuckle Signature Suite, in a row of historic terraced houses (two bedrooms, living room with fireplace, dining area, kitchenette, furnished verandah)
• breakfast, lunch (and a Sunday jazz brunch) at Oasis
• Planet Bar for small plates and cocktails
• The Red Room by Chefs Warehouse for Pan-Asian dining
• The Verandah for hyper-seasonal South African flavours
• The Fountain (reopening in September 2025) for alfresco lunches
• Afternoon Tea with live piano music
• Librisa Spa with eight treatment rooms and a thermal suite of steam bath, Finnish sauna and cold plunge pool
• family-friendly swimming pool with pool service from Oasis
• quiet adult-only swimming pool
• gym and yoga studio
• tennis court
• children’s club

Perfect for lovers of tradition and living heritage; seekers after la vie en rose; families looking for child-friendly elegance.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes, select rooms only and select areas of the hotel. Pet Afternoon Tea is a favourite among furry companions.
Cost Enquire at reservations.mnh@belmond.com
MAKE A RESERVATION

Ellerman House

Where Bantry Bay
With over 33 years of hospitality under its belt, and various notable guests passing through its grand halls, this one-of-a-kind luxury hotel in the exclusive cliffside suburb of Bantry Bay has built a stellar reputation that speaks for itself. Old-world elegance permeates the spectacular seaside setting, where a curated collection of contemporary local art, beautiful grounds, and uninterrupted ocean and mountain views await. Although expansive, there’s a wonderful sense of intimacy and home-from-home calm, where your every need is met. Ellerman House holds all the charm of a once-upon-a-time sojourn, with modern creature comforts to boot.
Insider detail The hotel’s art collection includes works by William Kentridge, Irma Stern, and other masters, with pieces rotating from the owners’ extensive private collection.
What’s on offer

• 13 house rooms and suites
• 2 private villas (three ensuite bedrooms, lounge and dining area, kitchen, swimming pool and deck, private chef and hospitality team)
• OneEighty restaurant for a refined seasonal menu that changes daily
• Curate for fine wine-paired tasting menus in the extraordinary wine gallery
• a 10 000-bottle private wine collection of South Africa’s finest labels and rare vintages
• cocktail bar for sunset drinks and canapés
• help-yourself-pantry filled with freshly made treats
• spa with four treatment rooms and a relaxation area with sauna, polar plunge pool and sensation shower
• lush indigenous gardens, including a series of terraced lawns edged with fynbos
• heated swimming pool
• yoga on the lawn
• gym with an ocean view
• library with fireplace
• exclusive art gallery

Perfect for ultra-luxury seekers; art collectors; wine connoisseurs; guests prioritising privacy and exclusivity above all else.
Child friendly? Yes, 12 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R19 000 per room per night (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Babylonstoren

Where Franschhoek Valley
A delicious taste of idyllic country life: from Provençal-inspired gardens bearing fruit that made the Cape of Good Hope a vital pitstop, to luxurious suites that are replicas of the old farm workers’ cottages, to food fit for the gods, the hotel at Babylonstoren merges world-class comfort with laidback farm style and heritage. As well as the original suites and cottages in the gardens, new Cape Dutch-style cottages and an exclusive-use family house adjoin vineyards and orchards. Explore endless dirt roads on mountain-bikes, row on the dam and soak up a pervasive sense of tranquillity on this picturesque heritage farm between Franschhoek and Paarl.
Insider detail  Guests have the gardens to themselves before the gates open and are invited to join the gardeners for the morning harvest and pick their own vegetables and herbs. There is a beautifully curated collection of books in every room – plus wood-burning fireplaces, silky sarongs, umbrellas and sturdy wellies for wandering around the farm.
What’s on offer

• 9 Farmhouse Suites
• 13 Garden Cottages (six one-bedroom suites; three one-bedroom cottages and four two-bedroomed cottages)
• Koornhuis (two-bedroom cottage)
• 8 Fynbos Cottages (one- and two-bedroom)
• Manor House and Fynbos Family House (five-bedroom exclusive-use villas)
• Babel Restaurant for farm-fresh breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Greenhouse Restaurant for alfresco breakfast, lunch, tea and scones
• The Old Bakery for Italian-inspired meals (Monday, Tuesday, Friday) and Carnivore Evenings (Wednesday + Sunday)
• The Farm Shop, which includes the Milk Room, Coffee Roastery, Gelato Room, Meat Room and Lekker Room
• guided garden tours and farm walks
• guided fishing
• use of bicycles to explore the farm
• swim in the farm dam or outdoor swimming pool
• meet donkeys, chickens, ducks, geese, tortoises and water buffalo on the farm
• wine-tasting centre and wine museum
• regular workshops (from baking to foraging, essential oils and soap-making)
• Garden Spa with seven treatment rooms; tropical rain showers; sauna and steam room; rasul chamber; two hammams; indoor-outdoor pool area with two vitality pools (jacuzzis)
• visit Soetmelksvlei for a living 19th-century farm museum experience .

Perfect for garden enthusiasts; lovers of farm nostalgia and luxe country style; families wanting a farm paradise for kids to adventure in.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R13 910 per night for two people (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

La Residence

Where Franschhoek
Set among sweeping vineyards, plum orchards and olive groves on a private 12-hectare estate, this hotel is the epitome of countryside elegance. Opulent interiors, designed by owner Liz Biden and inspired by royalty the world over, complement the breathtaking surrounds and spectacular mountain backdrop, while personalised service make this tranquil space all the more desirable for a luxurious Winelands retreat. It’s a hotel filled with glamorous settings, from the pool courtyard and the Loggia overlooking a pond to a chandelier-lit dining hall and the Persian Alley beside a stream for alfresco meals.
Insider detail The creative force behind The Royal Portfolio, Liz Biden takes a maximalist approach to decor, deftly wielding colour, gorgeous fabrics, objets d’art and antique furniture discovered on her world travels to create stunning interiors with a warmth and character all their own.
What’s on offer

• 6 Luxury Suites + 5 Superior Suites in the hotel
• 5 freestanding Vineyard Suites (one, two or three bedrooms) with private plunge pools
• Franschhoek House (exclusive-use private villa with six bedrooms)
• two scenic swimming pools
• breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Chef’s Table experience or masterclasses
• afternoon tea beside the fire in the lounge
• alfresco picnics in the grounds
• cocktails on The Loggia verandah
• wine-tasting in the cellar
• spa treatment room
• explore the estate and gardens (on foot or by bike)
• meet miniature horses, springboks, guinea fowl and strutting peacocks
• take the shuttle into the centre of Franschhoek for restaurants, galleries and wine tram

Perfect for savvy travellers looking for a luxury Winelands bolthole unlike any other; art lovers; families seeking quiet moments and shared adventures.
Child friendly? Yes (children over 10 in the main hotel; children of all ages in the Vineyard Suites)
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R10 300 per person sharing per night (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Delaire Graff

Where Stellenbosch
Perched high above the Helshoogte Pass in the Stellenbosch Winelands, the views at this sublime wine estate are genuinely breathtaking. Stunning sculptures emerge from meticulous indigenous gardens, views take in a dramatic landscape of mountains and vine-clad slopes, and vast studded wooden doors swing open to reveal a treasure trove of the finer things in life. Flawless hospitality and polished service, serene contemporary interiors that epitomise quiet luxury, a dazzling collection of art from owner and diamantaire Laurence Graff’s personal collection, and a collection of luxury lodge suites that make the most of the panoramic views and peaceful seclusion.
Insider detail The art collection is beyond inspiring… from Vladimir Tretchikoff’s Chinese Girl and works by William Kentridge to Dylan Lewis bronze cheetahs, there’s a thought-provoking and engaging masterpiece to feast your eyes upon practically everywhere you go on the estate.
What’s on offer

• 14 luxury lodges (one bedroom) with private deck and heated pool
• 2 Presidential Lodges (two bedrooms) with living and dining areas, terrace with 12-metre heated pool
• Spacious Owner’s Villa (four bedrooms) with living and dining areas, fireplace, private wine cellar, family room with home-theatre facilities, gym, shaded terrace, heated 14-metre infinity pool and jacuzzi, dedicated chef and butler service
• Japanese-inspired Hōseki restaurant, headed by chef Virgil Kahn
• Delaire Graff Restaurant (currently undergoing refurbishment; reopens 1 October 2025) featuring creative bistro classics
• Lorenzo’s Cucina Italiana (seasonal; reopens 1 November 2025) for alfresco Italian fare
• art-filled Wine Lounge (currently undergoing refurbishment; reopens 1 October 2025) for wine-tasting (free to hotel guests)
• world-class spa with five treatment suites offering bespoke personalised experiences; Swedish sauna and steam room; private relaxation room; terrace with a heated 22-metre infinity pool and built-in jacuzzi (and views of distant Table Mountain).
• private gym
• sculptured gardens planted with over 350 native species
• hiking trails
• Graff Boutique (for Graff jewellery) + 100% Capri Boutique (for luxury linen clothing and homeware)

Perfect for art connoisseurs; lovers of luxury; wine enthusiasts.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R27 500 per night for two people (includes breakfast at Hōseki)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Cape Grace

Where V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
An iconic pioneer of the V&A Waterfront and resident queen of the Waterfront’s exclusive yacht marina with picture-perfect Table Mountain views, this five-star haven recently underwent a top-to-toe renovation and emerged sparkling with art, elegant decor and timeless luxury. It feels like a secret hideaway despite being at the hub of the harbour (with seagulls crying overhead) and the lively Waterfront precinct. The landing stage (and the legendary Bascule Bar) right on the marina means you can even arrive by water.
Insider detail The permanent collection of stunning South African and African artworks has recently been expanded by a collaboration with the Norval Foundation, adding several more masterpieces on extended loan.
What’s on offer

• 112 rooms and suites
• Heirloom Restaurant for à la carte dining and the Grace brunch club (in winter)
• Pool Bar for cocktails, light meals and the Grace brunch club (in summer)
• an exquisite afternoon tea at Heirloom
• Bascule Bar for an exceptional whisky collection, creative cocktails and bar menu
• coffee, drinks and snacks in the Library lounge
• Fairmont Spa with three treatment rooms, salt room, sauna and steam room
• heated swimming pool
• gym

Perfect for art lovers; whisky connoisseurs; guests looking for a luxury stay in the walkable heart of the Waterfront.
Child-friendly Yes
Pet-friendly No
Cost From R18 596 per room per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Steenberg Hotel & Spa

Where Tokai, Cape Town
Set on the oldest farm (established in 1682) in the Constantia Winelands, Steenberg’s wild mountain landscapes have been tamed into lush vineyards, beautiful gardens (dotted with extraordinary sculptures by Edoardo Daniele Villa) and a manicured championship golf course. The original Cape Dutch farm buildings house a 24-room boutique hotel, restaurant and spa, with spectacular mountain views, big skies and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal country escape, no matter what time of year you visit.
Insider detail The inspiring story of feisty Catharina Ras, who founded Steenberg, still resonates on the farm today. Her nickname Tryn is the name of the flagship restaurant, and the Five Lives red blend commemorates the adventurous chapters of her courageous and resilient pioneer life.
What’s on offer

• 25 rooms and suites (including one-bedroom, two-bedroom and three-bedroom Villa Suites)
• Tryn for signature contemporary cuisine
• Bistro Sixteen82 for tapas and bistro fare
• newly renovated spa with five treatment rooms; a Nordic thermal suite with sauna, ice-bucket shower and ice bath; Scented Garden for outdoor treatments; Pool House with heated pool, loungers and mobile bar
• championship 18-hole golf course set amid fynbos
• wine-tasting and wine purchases at Steenberg Tasting Room (complimentary tasting for hotel guests)
• vineyard walks
• mountain-biking trails (complimentary e-bikes available)

Perfect for nature lovers; wine connoisseurs; golf enthusiasts; families seeking space and outdoor activities.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R8 500 per room per night (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Lanzerac

Where Stellenbosch
Approached via a stately oak-lined driveway, Lanzerac is breathtaking from the very start of your visit. The centuries-old-estate (established in 1692) in picturesque Stellenbosch combines historic Cape architecture, scenic splendour and approachable luxury that is steeped in heritage. Lush gardens and rolling vineyards surround the five-star hotel, with the Jonkershoek mountains forming a dramatic backdrop and evoking a sense of privacy and tranquillity. And yet, its close proximity to the centre of Stellenbosch means guests have the best of both worlds.
Insider detail Known for its pinotage, Lanzerac played a vital role in the establishment of the South African varietal. Professor Abraham Izak Perold of the University of Stellenbosch successfully crossed pinot noir and hermitage (cinsault) in 1925, but it didn’t take off until over three decades later when Lanzerac was the first winery to use the name Pinotage on the labels of its 1959 vintage. The rest is wine history.
What’s on offer

• 54 rooms and suites
• The Manor Kitchen for opulent buffet breakfast, dinner, elegant Afternoon Tea (on Saturday) or sumptuous Sunday lunch
• Tasting Room & Deli for all-day breakfasts, coffee and wine-tastings
• cellar tours (available daily at 11am and 3pm)
• Taphuis for gourmet pub grub
• Craven Lounge, a cigar and whisky bar reminiscent of an old Victorian gentlemen’s club
• The Library – South Africa’s first water tasting room
• spa with eight treatment rooms; a mist room; two rasul chambers; a sauna and steam room;  mani-pedi stations; indoor heated pool and jacuzzi; fitness room
• shuttles into Stellenbosch
• hiking and mountain-bike trails in nearby Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

Perfect for heritage aficionados; outdoors adventurers; foodies and oenophiles exploring the Stellenbosch scene.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R7 280 per night for two guests (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

La Cotte Farm

Where Franschhoek
The undeniable sense of peace and tranquillity – it’s hard to believe that the lively village centre is just a short walk away – coupled with beautifully appointed lodgings makes this country escape on an original Huguenot farm (dating back to 1698) a firm favourite among visitors. Evoking a charming village atmosphere with glorious mountain views in all directions, there’s a small hotel in the restored Cape Dutch homestead, and self-catering cottages of varying sizes, all decorated in gorgeous candy colours with a mix of antiques and contemporary flair.
Insider detail At the entrance to the farm, the oldest watermill in Africa has been meticulously restored to full working order, the wheel turning under a mountain stream, and the interior glowing with beeswax, willow-pattern china and the feel of a bygone era. It’s now a charming coffee shop with the most divine patisserie and breads baked on the farm.
What’s on offer

• Manor House Hotel: 8 ensuite bedrooms with French doors onto private terraces
• Pool House: two-bedroom cottage with kitchenette, living room and verandah
• Orchard Cottages: 10 self-catering cottages (one, two or three bedrooms), each with its own private pool and verandah
• Forest Cottages: 9 self-catering cottages (one or two bedrooms) with shared pool and pavilion, looking out over forest and vineyards (10-minute walk from main reception)
• Private Villa: Main House + Lake Cottage with four bedrooms (sleeps 10), verandah, large pool and sauna
• farm and garden walks
• breakfast, brunch or lunch at La Cotte restaurant
• pastries and coffee at the historic Mill House bakery
• afternoon and evening drinks at the view-drenched bar
• Franschhoek’s main street for boutiques, wine tram and restaurants is just a stroll away

Perfect for romantic escapes; lovers of heritage and nature; families seeking self-catering seclusion.
Child friendly? Yes (in cottages + villa)
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R3  999 per room per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Leeu House

Where Franschhoek
This historic Cape Dutch house (part of the Leeu Collection that includes Leeu Estates) offers a boutique stay in the centre of town – for couples or to book exclusively for a private group. The interiors are serene and dressed in natural textures and fabrics – a neutral palette that lets the fabulous art collection on the walls shine. The bedrooms ooze understated luxury, with marble-clad bathrooms and high-quality bedding. The house is nestled within a peaceful, pristine garden of green lawns, flowers, hedges, old oak trees and sculptures. And the central pool area is a true oasis, with swaying palms, loungers, an outdoor bar and the terrace tables of The Conservatory, where you can enjoy platters and drinks in between your explorations.
Insider detail Leeu Collection owner Anajit Singh and renowned winemakers Chris and Andrea Mullineux together formed Mullineux and Leeu Family Wines, with wine farms Leeu Passant in Franschhoek and Roundstone in the Swartland. They initiated a visionary, 100% staff-owned project, Great Heart Wines, which you can explore in an intimate tasting at the wine boutique across the road.
What’s on offer

• 12 rooms (classic or deluxe) and 1 suite
• The Conservatory for farm-to-table all-day dining
• guest lounge with cosy fireplace
• 15-metre swimming pool
• sculpture-filled garden
• pool bar for sundowner cocktails
• complimentary tasting at Great Heart Wine Boutique
• spa treatments at sister property Leeu Estates

Perfect for couples looking for an elegant art-filled garden sanctuary; food and wine aficionados
Child friendly? No, except for exclusive use
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R11 500 per room per night (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Spier Hotel

Where Stellenbosch
Fresh from a complete reimagining and renovation, the hotel at Spier Wine Farm has added a new era of welcoming farmhouse-inspired luxury to its village layout of elegant rooms clustered around courtyards and wild Cape gardens. Established in 1692, the family-owned farm is a destination in its own right, known for historic Cape Dutch buildings set around a wide werf, for its regenerative farming philosophy, award-winning wines and love of the arts. Set on the banks of the Eerste River, shaded by mature oak trees and scattered with sculptures, weathered boulders, lawns, food gardens and winding nature trails, it’s an idyllic place to explore.
Insider detail The Spier Light Art Festival is a magical annual highlight: ephemeral illuminated art installations create a trail of mesmerising works through the landscape to explore at dusk for a month at the end of summer. And there are many more permanent art features on the farm – don’t miss the mosaic garden, the interactive sound sculpture lawn, the Creative Block art in the tasting room, and rotating exhibitions curated by Spier Arts Trust in the old wine cellar.
What’s on offer

• 80 luxury rooms and suites
• 2 private villas (three bedrooms)
• Veld (dinner) and Garden Room (breakfast and lunch) restaurants in the hotel
• rooftop bar
• rewilded fynbos gardens
• heated swimming pool
• spa with 10 treatment rooms; infrared sauna; two steam rooms; cold therapy; mindful movement studio; and unique Cape Herbal Bath House with heated marble exfoliating slabs and claw-foot baths
• riverside gym
• nature-inspired kids club
• Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery and the Farm Café & Deli on the farm’s main werf
• farm picnics
• winter winemakers dinners in the Manor House
• farm walks, food garden and Elemental play garden
• vineyard segway tours
• wine-tasting and blending
• hotel shop, Cowshed shop, and craft market with making experiences
• mountain-bike trails
• rotating art exhibitions at the Old Wine Cellar

Perfect for art and wine lovers; fans of regenerative farming and nature; families looking for fresh air and connection.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R5 900 per room per night (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Tintswalo Atlantic

Where Hout Bay, Cape Town
Perched right on the rocky shores below Chapman’s Peak Drive outside Hout Bay, this luxurious and intimate lodge looks out at Atlantic Ocean waves, Hout Bay and The Sentinel mountain beyond. Hidden from passing travellers, Tintswalo Atlantic is only reachable by the resident shuttle, which transports guests from the car park off the main road steeply down to the lodge on the shore below, where an unparalleled seaside setting awaits. Wake up to the smell of crisp sea air and the sound of lapping waves outside your suite. At sunset, saunter onto the deck of the residents’ lounge for complimentary canapés and the cocktail of the day as the sun dips into the ocean.
Insider detail There’s a tradition for departing guests to cast a pebble over their shoulder into the ocean and make a wish… it all started when owner Lisa Goosen and her family saw the derelict buildings on the shore and threw a coin into the water, wishing for the chance to turn this special spot into a boutique hotel. A few months later that wish came true and they were granted the concession on this small pocket of Table Mountain National Park… the rest is history.
What’s on offer

• 10 suites (with fireplaces and private balconies) offering uninterrupted ocean views
• Chefs Warehouse for a contemporary small plates set menu (lunch and dinner)
• ocean-facing deck for pre-dinner sundowners
• residents’ lounge and bar
• spa treatments
• sea-facing heated swimming pool and sun loungers
• beachcombing and rockpooling in a small private cove (tide dependent)
• gift shop

Perfect for romantic escapes; ocean lovers; guests seeking total privacy in a dramatic coastal setting.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Cost from R9 920 per suite per night (breakfast included)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa

Where Somerset West
With magnificent views of the Helderberg and Hottentots-Holland Mountains, and a timeless, away-from-it-all atmosphere, this hidden gem’s thatched Cape Dutch-style buildings are set around a central courtyard and fragrant gardens with 300-year-old oak trees. There’s a sense of sophisticated country-house elegance in the central Manor House, which blends contemporary comfort and historic detail. It’s perfectly positioned for exploring this tucked away corner of the Helderberg, where vines, rivers, nature reserves and mountain slopes preserve a wild country flavour; plus the celebrated Stellenbosch Winelands are just a short drive away.
Insider detail Erinvale shares its history with its Helderberg neighbours Vergelegen, Lourensford and Morgenster wine estates. They were originally all part of a farm established by Willem Adriaan van der Stel back in 1666.
What’s on offer

• 56 luxurious, individually decorated rooms and suites
• Stefan’s Restaurant for tasting menus in an intimate atmosphere
• The Oak Bistro and Terrace for casual lunches and dinners
• Magnolia Social Dining Lounge for sharing plates and cocktails
• afternoon tea
• monthly wine events
• swimming pool
• a wellness spa with four treatment rooms; custom-built scrub room; sauna and steam room; outdoor heated lap pool; state-of-the-art TechnoGym; alfresco wellness restaurant
• hair boutique
• lush gardens with indigenous flora and trees
• environmental tours, padel and clay pigeon shooting
• Gary Player-designed 18-hole golf course next door
• hiking and mountain-biking trails close by
• Vergelegen, Lourensford and Morgenster: neighbouring wine estates in walking distance

Perfect for golf lovers; wine aficionados; wellness spa seekers; families and outdoor enthusiasts heading for the mountain trails.
Child friendly Yes
Pet friendly Yes. Dog-friendly rooms with pampering treats. Dogs are also welcome at the Oak Terrace restaurant.
Cost From R4 500 per room per night (includes breakfast and a complimentary wine-tasting voucher)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Mont Rochelle Hotel

Where Franschhoek
Back in 2014 Sir Richard Branson applied his magic touch to a quirky, thatched hotel on a hilltop wine estate and turned it into an ode to leisure that exudes English country-house vibes. Award-winning wines, two restaurants and grandstand views from every angle are yours to explore at will. The lodgings have a luxe but laidback aesthetic, with fun touches (like postcards and stamps). There are rooms tucked into the eaves, with balconies peeking out under the thatch, and rooms whose roofs are the main lawns; all offer killer views over the Franschhoek village and valley.
Insider detail The flagship restaurant Miko is named after the previous owner of the estate, Rwandan entrepreneur Miko Rwayitare, who made history as the first black owner of a South African wine farm when he bought Mont Rochelle in 2001. The estate’s premium wine range also carries his name.
What’s on offer 

• 26 luxurious rooms and suites (two with private plunge pools)
• private Manor House (four deluxe suites and a bunk room for children)
• heated swimming pool
• garden and vineyard walks
• wine-tasting (complimentary for guests), with food pairings or nibbles
• Fine-dining Miko for breakfast, lunch and dinner
• The Country Kitchen for laidback lunches and gourmet picnics
• winemaker’s dinner with cellar tour (selected dates)
• floodlit astroturf tennis court
• boules, croquet and other lawn games
• spa treatments and hammam
• regular shuttles into the village
• wine tram stops at The Country Kitchen

Perfect for wine lovers; families and couples seeking an intimate country house stay with gracious ease in the Virgin Limited Edition tradition, and views de luxe.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Manor House on request
Cost From R8 730 per room per night (breakfast included)
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Dorp Hotel

Where Bo Kaap, Cape Town
Impossible to describe and impossible to forget, Dorp Hotel in the Bo Kaap has wonderfully mastered the art of making something new look like it was always meant to be there. Aesthetic maximalism is the modus operandi for this hillside hotel overlooking the city, thanks to designer and hotelier Gail Behr’s penchant for colour, texture and hyper-personal touches rather than sleek lines and whitewashed furnishings. With a rooftop terrace, hidden courtyards, cosy lounges and collaborative drawing room, there is arguably no more unique space in Cape Town, nor one with better views of Table Mountain.
Insider detail The drawing room’s communal table encourages interaction between guests from around the world. The hotel operates without a liquor licence out of respect for the Muslim Bo-Kaap community, with guests bringing their own alcohol or requesting purchases.
What’s on offer

• 42 individual suites (some with private terraces and patios, 8 with designer kitchens)
• breakfast (complimentary), snacks and home-style lunches and dinner in the restaurant
• drawing room/ lounge area
• outdoor seating areas
• magnificent gardens with indigenous plants, herbs and fruit trees
• terrace roof with city and harbour views
• small shop selling Dorp’s homemade products, Homework clothing and other local items

Perfect for design aficionados; couples seeking unique experiences; guests who appreciate community atmosphere over traditional hotel service.
Child friendly? Yes, 14 years and older
Pet friendly? Yes, by arrangement
Cost From R4 000 per room per night (breakfast included)
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The Vineyard Hotel

Where Newlands, Cape Town
Situated on the forested eastern slopes of Table Mountain on magnificent 2.8-hectare grounds, this heritage hotel in the southern suburbs has made a name for itself (among locals and out-of-towners) for its warm hospitality, excellent service and one of the dreamiest garden settings in Cape Town. The hotel is a lush oasis of rest and relaxation, with roaming mountain tortoises (50 years old and counting), tweeting birds and tranquil water features – all a mere 15-minute drive from the city centre, and close to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens too.
Insider detail  The Vineyard’s gardens were originally established by artist and diarist Lady Anne Barnard, who built the original Georgian house here in 1800. Some of her watercolours of that garden still hang in the hotel today.
What’s on offer

• 114 courtyard-facing rooms
• 60 mountain-facing rooms
• 24 suites
• 9 apartments (with kitchen, lounge, spacious balcony, one or two ensuite bedrooms)
• Morii for Middle Eastern dining (and afternoon tea on weekends)
• Garden Lounge and The Square for breakfast, lunch, sundowners and dinner
• Long Café for freshly brewed coffee, tea, cakes, pastries, breakfast and snacks
• Angsana Spa with 10 treatment rooms and a Rainmist room
• fitness centre
• outdoor swimming pool + indoor heated pool
• abundant riverside gardens (guided walk available)
• circular jogging route from hotel across Liesbeek River
• children’s activities

Perfect for families; garden and nature lovers; guests seeking tranquil and affordable luxury close to Table Mountain trails.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R3 223 per room per night (breakfast included)
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The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel

Where Constantia, Cape Town
Part of the esteemed Liz McGrath Collection (that falls under Small Luxury Hotels of the World), this five-star property combines modern luxury with historic charm, against a backdrop of gardens, woodlands, vineyards and Table Mountain looming in the distance. Set in the picturesque Constantia Winelands, a mere 15-minute drive from Cape Town’s city centre, this beautiful escape is a veritable oasis, making the outside world seem far away. With a blissful garden-inspired restaurant, sumptuous spa, chichi martini bar and 3.6 hectares of award-winning landscaped gardens, there’s really not much reason to leave…
Insider detail The gardens feature numerous plant varieties, including rose and herb gardens, indigenous plantings, mountain streams and ponds, as well as a forest of camphor trees (some dating back 300 years), tempting you to wandering strolls where you might spot the resident porcupine, cheeky squirrels, or a Cape dwarf chameleon.
What’s on offer

• 51 rooms and suites
• Liz McGrath Villa (two bedrooms, private dining room, kitchen and lounge)
• Madiba Villa (three bedrooms, private dining room, kitchen, lounge and swimming pool)
• The Conservatory restaurant, in an idyllic garden setting, for breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Classic High Tea (on Saturday + Sunday)
• spa with six treatment rooms, steam room and sauna
• two heated swimming pools
• gym
• tennis court
• croquet and petanque on the lawns
• mountain-bikes available to hire

Perfect for garden enthusiasts; wine lovers exploring the Constantia wine route; guests seeking a luxury country estate ambience and tranquillity.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Cost From R5 228 per room per night (breakfast included)
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Taj Cape Town

Where Cape Town City Centre
Just across from the Company’s Garden, with the city centre’s hotspots and cultural attractions on its doorstep, Taj Cape Town is perfectly positioned to explore the heart and history of the Mother City, before resting your head in five-star comfort. Two landmark heritage buildings, topped with a modern tower, blend a sense of local history with contemporary luxury, layered with colour and detail that give a nod to India. In addition to sky-high views of the city and Table Mountain, superb restaurants and an award-winning spa, it is the warm service from all the staff that makes this property stand out.
Insider detail It’s former life as Cape Town’s Reserve Bank adds a sense of grandeur to the lobby with fluted marble pillars, marble floors, Art Deco details and high vaulted ceilings, and huge sash windows overlook St George’s Cathedral in heritage rooms and suites.
What’s on offer

• 176 rooms and suites
• Bombay Brasserie for an authentic Pan-Indian dinner
• Mint Restaurant & Wood-Fired Grill for relaxed breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Lobby Bar and Lounge for cocktails, wine, tapas and snacks
• The Whisky Lounge for guided tastings from the extensive collection
• The Pantry for cakes and sweet treats
• J Wellness Circle spa with six treatment rooms for holistic Ayurvedic-inspired treatments; jacuzzi, sauna and steam room; 15-metre heated indoor pool
• fitness centre
• kids programmes

Perfect for couples and families exploring Cape Town’s historic centre.
Child-friendly Yes
Pet-friendly No
Cost From R6 500 per room per night
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