The 20 Best Villa Escapes near Cape Town

When you need to gather the clan for a celebration or reunion, or just for a well-earned break in beautiful surroundings, a villa rental will do the trick. If you’ve ever imagined swanning around your own private manor house on a wine estate, or yearned to soak up some lazy seaside-villa cool, or escape to a wilderness with luxury on tap, these bucket-list holidays will live up to your dreams. We’ve curated a list of villas of all shapes and sizes, self-catering or all-inclusive (think butlers, chefs and more to spoil you), in some of the most incredible locations in the Cape.

Where would you like to go?
The Cape Winelands
The West Coast
The Overberg

Cape Winelands

Cottage 1685 at Boschendal

ClaireGunn

Where Franschhoek
Sleeps 10
The setting Designed by Sir Herbert Baker, this cottage is in a perfect location, with dramatic views of the surrounding mountains. (Attentive yet unobtrusive hosts, Maxwell or Anzel, will replenish your wine glasses or tea cups while you take it all in.) Named for the year that appears on the farm’s first title deed, the cottage has been immaculately restored, with rich colours and bold wallpaper to modernise an otherwise authentically dressed cottage gleaming with yellowwood, teak and rosewood. Boschendal has other accommodation options and a mountain villa, but this is the most iconic and atmospheric, set apart from the Werf and day-visitor areas.

The lodgings 

• 3 bedrooms in main cottage (king, queen + twin beds)
• 2 bathrooms with bath and/or shower
• 2 bedrooms in garden annexe (king or twin beds)
• ensuite bathrooms with bath and shower
• fully equipped kitchen + kitchenette in annexe
• lounge with fireplace in main cottage and annexe
• formal dining room
• satellite TV
• fireplace
• furnished verandah with dining table + back stoep
• natural swimming pool with sun loungers
• beautiful private garden and lawns
• additional dining table under oak trees
• braai area

On the property

• Werf restaurant, deli and Cellar Door Eats for farm-to-table food
• wine tastings (complimentary wine-and-chocolate pairing for guests)
• art gallery
• garden tours (complimentary for guests)
• Friday night market (summer) + picnics
• trail centre for hiking and mountain-biking
• horse-riding
• kids’ Tree House + Outdoor Experience (discount rate for guests)

Good to know A complimentary breakfast is served at the cottage, with a dedicated host.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes (small to medium dogs)
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R21 500 per night (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

La Cotte Villa

Where Franschhoek
Sleeps 14
The setting One look and you’ll understand why this boutique wine farm, one of the original Huguenot properties dating back to 1698, is a sought-after destination for enjoying a quiet reprieve. It’s a true country escape, with whitewashed buildings scattered around beautiful gardens and forest-edge spaces, views of vineyards and mountains, and an undeniable sense of peace and tranquillity. It’s hard to believe that town is just a quick walk away… Set apart, with views over a waterlily-studded lake, is the beautifully appointed private villa, comprising a main house and adjoining cottage – plus an enchanting, blue-shuttered pool house, where you could end up spending most of your stay.

The lodgings

• 4 bedrooms in main house, 2 in cottage (king and twin beds)
• ensuite bathrooms with bath and shower
• fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine
• open-plan lounge and dining room
• indoor fireplace
• smart TV with DStv
• furnished wraparound verandahs
• braai area and outdoor dining
• heated swimming pool
• pool house with loungers, daybeds and sauna

On the property

• farm and garden walks
• daytime dining at La Cotte Heritage Restaurant
• weekend bar with verandah for sundowners (in peak season)

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R35 240 per night (minimum two-night stay in summer)
MAKE A RESERVATION

The Owner’s Villa at Delaire Graff

Where Stellenbosch
Sleeps 8
The setting Perched at the top of the Helshoogte Pass, overlooking the majestic Banhoek Valley, Delaire Graff Estate beckons for those seeking a spectacular spot to kick up their feet. The “owner” of this villa is world-renowned jeweller Laurence Graff, and his double-level abode is dressed in the finest furnishings, floor-to-ceiling window-walls, and over 100 works from his art collection. It’s all about ultimate comfort, relaxation, and top-drawer service. There are excellent wining-and-dining options on the estate (on the 2023 World’s Best Vineyards list) in addition to the bespoke menus created by a private chef in your villa. The price tag might make your eyes water, but if you’ve ever wanted to make like the jet set, this is it.

The lodgings

• 4 bedrooms with king beds, fireplace and walk-in closet
• ensuite marble-clad bathrooms with a bath and walk-in rain shower
• private terrace off each bedroom
• state-of-the-art designer kitchen
• open-plan living and dining area with double-sided fireplace
• family room with home cinema
• furnished terrace with outdoor dining
• deck with sun loungers
• 14-metre heated infinity pool and jacuzzi
• gym (with state-of-the-art equipment; private trainer on request)
• wine cellar

On the property

• Wine Lounge for tutored tastings (complimentary Icon tasting for villa guests)
• Japanese fine-dining at chef Virgil Kahn’s Hōseki
• Delaire Graff Restaurant for bistro fare and chef’s menus
• luxury day spa
• art collection and sculpture-filled indigenous gardens
• upmarket boutique and jewellery store

Good to know All in-villa meals, minibar and selected wines are included. There is a butler, housekeepers, personal chef and concierge on hand, plus private estate and art tours for villa guests.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost price on request (all-inclusive; minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

The Residence at Vrede en Lust

Where Franschhoek
Sleeps 12
The setting At the foot of the Simonsberg Mountains, a short drive from town, lies the beautiful Vrede en Lust Estate – home to a magnificent 1 250㎡ villa (overlooking a sparkling dam with an island) on its own private, three-hectare slice of the property. The farm dates back three centuries; the estate is dotted with historic buildings and towering ancient oaks, offering that inimitable country charm synonymous with the heritage-rich Winelands. Coupled with the contemporary comforts found at The Residence, an unforgettable stay is guaranteed.

The lodgings

• 4 bedrooms with king beds, 2 bedrooms with twin beds (or king beds)
• ensuite bathrooms with a shower and/or bath
• each room with seating, TV and 4 rooms with private balcony or direct outdoor access
• fully equipped kitchen and back-kitchen
• dining room with fireplace
• 3 living rooms, one with fireplace, two with flatscreen TVs
• furnished verandahs
• outdoor lounge, dining table and bar area
• braai lapa next to dam
• swimming pool
• gym
• spa treatment room

On the property

• wine tastings and cellar tours
• daytime Lust Bistro & Bakery
• Savoye restaurant
• horse-riding
• quad-biking
• horse-and-carriage rides
• wine-tram access to dozens of wineries
• hiking and MTB up the Simonsberg

Good to know Daily breakfast and housekeeping is included; private in-villa dining is available at an additional cost, as is childcare.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Only small, house-trained dogs are welcome.
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R29 000 per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

La Clé Manoir

Where Franschhoek
Sleeps 6 (4 adults)
The setting A mere five-minute stroll from Franschhoek’s buzzy high street is this breathtaking country retreat spanning two wine farms. La Clé des Montagnes (“the key to the mountains” in French) is set among orchards and rolling vineyards, offering beautiful scenery, the luxury of space and tranquillity. The Manoir villa, tucked away in its own garden, is the perfect meeting of historic charm and heritage with modern touches, a meticulously designed space to fulfill your every desire. Guests are immersed in the enviable Franschhoek lifestyle, with art, food and wine in abundance right on your doorstep.

The lodgings

• 2 bedrooms (double beds + rollaway bed for 2 children)
• ensuite with bath and shower, plus dressing room off main bedroom
• fully equipped farmhouse kitchen
• lounge with fireplace
• formal dining room + sunny breakfast room
• library
• wraparound furnished verandah
• hammocks
• swimming pool with loungers

On the property

• manicured gardens
• boules and croquet
• tennis court
• golf chip-and-putt lawn
• dam with paddle boats
• spa treatments
• bicycles available to explore the vineyards

Good to know Complimentary daily breakfast, plus personalised dining (braais, picnics, dinners) available at an additional cost, and a range of supervised activities for children. There are three other villas plus a 5-bedroom lodge (available for exclusive use) for a larger group.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R29 300 per night
R650 per child (under 12 years) per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Ludus Magnus Luxury Villas

Where Franschhoek
Sleeps 6 per villa
The setting Named after a Roman gladiator training school, this five-star establishment is home to an eye-watering array of amenities and activities, all of which reveal themselves in the most charming of ways. The property was conceived of by a French-Italian husband-and-wife team, well-versed in luxury and hospitality, who have developed it from scratch – including the shiraz vineyard, olive grove, orchards and extensive gardens. There is a manor house with guest rooms, but the three villas are simply magnificent, each with their own individual style: Vittoria is glamorous and opulent, Charlotte is serene and elegant, Stanislas is sleek and modern. All are 100% off the grid, so no loadshedding.

The lodgings

• 3 bedrooms with king beds, TV, minibar and air-conditioning
• ensuite bathrooms with shower
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan living and dining room with floating fireplace
• media nook with flatscreen TV and Sonos surround-sound
• 2 furnished terraces/decks
• 2 private pools (one heated) with loungers
• indoor braai area
• outdoor firepit

On the property

• walking trails
• picnic spots
• mobile gym
• spa treatments
• jacuzzi (at manor house)
• 50m swimming lanes in the freshwater dam
• 400m running/jogging track
• full-size rugby and soccer field
• mini island in the dam, with hideaway boma, river deck and beach
• kayaking and river tubing
• horse-riding
• pump track and bike-riding
• farm animals to feed
• treehouse with zipline
• helicopter-hopping to wine estates can be arranged

Good to know Housekeeping and the services of a butler are included, and a private chef on request. Villa guests receive a welcome grocery basket.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R32 275 per night (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Nibbana Manor House

Where Wolseley
Sleeps 8
The setting Flanked by towering mountains in the Witzenberg Valley, this 190-hectare working farm is the picture of bucolic paradise. A dusty road leads to the stylish main house and a smattering of farm cottages, beyond which paddocks and grazing sheep complete the storybook scene. Indoors, the old buildings have a playful artistic-farmhouse vibe, matched by attention to luxurious detail. Think deep verandahs, a colour-coded antique bookcase, fireplaces, oversized sumptuous furniture, eclectic artworks and monogrammed towels… Explore a bit and you’ll stumble upon the enchanting Secret Garden – archways of cypress, eucalyptus and oak create natural tunnelled pathways that lead to a sylvan oasis, where a trickling stream, sculptures and more await. The Tulbagh Winelands are on your doorstep, as are a number of hiking, mountain-biking and horse trails.

The lodgings

• 4 bedrooms (3 four-poster king beds, twin beds that can be converted to king)
• 2 ensuites with bath and shower, plus 1 shared bathroom
• master bedroom with fireplace, private lounge, TV and DVD player
• fully equipped kitchen
• lounge and dining areas with fireplace
• furnished verandah
• braai area
• private garden with swimming pool, pool deck and built-in braai

On the property

• Secret Garden with large natural pool, built-in braai, pizza oven and dining area
• hiking trails to two dams and a waterfall pool
• rock climbing
• catch-and-release fishing

Good to know There are five additional cottages for overflow of a larger group.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R10 500 (minimum two-night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Ty Gwyrdd at Monument House

Where Franschhoek
Sleeps 6
The setting A haven of off-grid luxury, this retreat combines glorious design with contemporary Cape Dutch architecture and top-to-toe sustainability. It sits on two hectares of indigenous, terraced gardens, where water features add a hint of Versailles grandeur. The estate was designed from the ground up by co-owner Wendy Smith, who brings her Welsh heritage and many years living in Asia to the mix (she and husband Nishan live on the estate). The splendid Ty Gwyrdd villa is filled with pops of rich colour, gorgeous wallpaper, luxe designer finishes and airy indoor-outdoor living spaces. Venture out to a different wine estate each day, or walk into town for foodie forays – it’s just five minutes from the buzzing high street.

The lodgings

• 3 bedrooms (king beds)
• 3 ensuite bathrooms with bath and shower
• fully equipped gourmet kitchen with dining area
• living room with flatscreen TV
• study with printer
• fireplaces in living room and main bedroom
• furnished terrace with outdoor dining
• central courtyard with breakfast table and braai area

On the property

• heated swimming pool with loungers
• jacuzzi
• manicured gardens

Good to know There are two other equally stylish two-bedroom cottages and two luxury suites, all of which can be booked along with Ty Gwyrdd for exclusive use. Breakfast booking vouchers can be used in the village, or a private cook can be hired.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R24 000 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Le Grand Jardin Villa

Where Stellenbosch
Sleeps 15
The setting In a secluded slice of the Devon Valley, this lavish family-friendly villa is exactly like nothing you’ve experienced before. At Le Grand Jardin, all paths – and there are many – lead to pleasure. From a life-sized Tintin rocket in the kids’ bedroom and pinball machine in the bar, to a chandelier strung up over a giant-lily-pad pond and a jetty with a rowboat, plus a wild meadow and 500 rose bushes, this is an extraordinary “grand garden” indeed – home to many Alice in Wonderland characters. Part pleasure dome and part regal retreat, the Herbert Baker-style mansion, filled with art and designer decor, is one of those rare properties that appeals to adventurous five-year-olds and (50-year-old) style savants alike!

The lodgings

• main house with 3 ensuite bedrooms (1 king, 1 double, 1 king + single)
• pool pavilion annexe with 3 ensuite bedrooms (2 king, 1 king + 2 singles)
• fully equipped kitchen + kitchenette in pool pavilion
• formal dining room with fireplace
• gin bar
• study and library with fireplace
• media room with fireplace and Netflix, Apple TV and DStv
• furnished terrace
• numerous private balconies and relaxation decks
• wine cellar/tasting room

On the property

• large swimming pool
• outdoor steam room
• tree walks leading to a treehouse-inspired seating area
• Victorian-style glass conservatory
• pizza deck with oven
• dam and eco-pool
• zipline
• jacuzzi under oak trees
• teepee, gypsy caravan and carousel
• outdoor movies (set up at an additional cost)

Good to know The rate includes continental breakfasts and 3-course dinners (excluding beverages).
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R42 900 per night (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

West Coast

Bordeaux on Britannia

Where Britannia Bay
Sleeps 8 – 10
The setting On a magnificent stretch of coastline known as the Golden Mile, this seafront villa is blessed with stunning views. Inside, the decor is warm, sophisticated and travel-inspired – touches of Greece and Morocco – with a series of spaces inviting lazy afternoons of reading, conversation and board games. The private boardwalk down to the shore, a mere stone’s throw away, is its crowning glory. Spend as much time as you like on the 5km beach, enjoying watersports (the villa comes with a double surfski), or explore further afield by mountain-biking into the Groot Paternoster Nature Reserve. The spa at the Shelley Point Hotel is close by, and Paternoster’s famed foodie scene is 20 minutes’ drive. At sunset, be sure to uncork a bottle of the villa’s Bordeaux blend – the first one is complimentary, and there’s more in the cellar under the stairs.

The lodgings

• 4 upstairs bedrooms (two with sea views, sharing a terrace)
• 3 queen beds and 2 single beds
• ensuite bathrooms with freestanding bath and walk-in shower + 2 outdoor showers
• 1 teenage dorm downstairs, with a bathroom
• fully equipped kitchen with dining area
• sunken lounge with fireplace
• pool room with a home-cinema smart TV

On the property

• central courtyard with a heated swimming pool
• pool deck with daybeds
• sea-facing furnished verandah with gas braai and dining area
• skateboarding half-pipe
• table tennis

Good to know  Villa manager Joseph is on hand to assist with housekeeping and anything you may need. Breakfast available on request.
Child friendly? Yes (6 years or older)
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R9 500 per night (minimum two-night stay, seven nights in school holidays)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Silver Bay Villa

Where St Helena Bay
Sleeps 8
The setting This architect-designed villa in Stompneusbaai offers a scintillating slice of the wonderfully wild West Coast, with its uninterrupted ocean views, direct access to the beach, and an open-plan interior worthy of double-page spreads in the finest decor mags. It’s got the white walls, thatched roof and warm comfort of a welcoming family beach house, but with a special sprinkling of modern luxury. This truly is the epitome of chic barefoot luxury – wake up to incredible views and step straight out onto the golden sands (the bedrooms are on the ground level). Upstairs is a sleek series of communal spaces for relaxing, dining and front-row seats to the stunning sunset show.

The lodgings

• 1 master suite (extra-length king bed) and 3 bedrooms (queen beds)
• ensuite bathrooms with a bath and/or shower
• fully equipped designer kitchen with Nespresso machine
• dining table overlooking pool deck
• living area with fireplace
• family room with smart TV (Netflix, Showmax, DStv)

On the property

• rimflow saltwater pool (heated)
• protected courtyard deck with loungers
• braai area
• outdoor shower
• direct beach access

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R10 590 per night (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Slipway Cottage

Where Churchhaven
Sleeps 11
The setting Hidden deep within the West Coast National Park, the fishing hamlet of Churchhaven is a remote, truly off-the-beaten track enclave. With only a handful of cottages available to rent, and no shops or other facilities to speak of, it’s a sought-after escape for city folk who want to get back to nature. With its whitewashed walls and sea-green shutters, Slipway Cottage blends perfectly into its surroundings on the sandy western shore of Langebaan Lagoon. From your spot on the sunny verandah, you’ll be mesmerised by the sparkling, translucent waters and big blue horizon. This solar-powered cottage may be remote but it’s equipped with all the creature comforts and designer details – the perfect space for a group getaway that requires only good food, gentle activity and all the time in the world to dream.

The lodgings

• 4 bedrooms (1 king bed, 3 queens)
• queen bedrooms have a loft with an extra single bed; two are connected by sliding door
• 3 ensuite bathrooms + 2 outdoor showers
• fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine
• open-plan lounge and dining area with fireplace
• satellite TV
• furnished verandah

On the property

• firepit, braai and pizza oven
• sheltered courtyard with dining table
• 2 stand-up paddle boards
• hiking and mountain-biking trails in the national park
• Kraalbaai and Preekstoel Beach nearby (36km)
• wildflowers (in season)

Good to know The daily conservation fee for the national park for SA citizens (out of flower season) is R74 per adult, R37 per child (2 – 11 years); R116 per adult, R58 per child for international visitors.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R8 500 per night (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Doringbos

Where Cederberg
Sleeps 15
The setting The striking allure of the Cederberg comes alive at this breathtaking off-grid escape, perched on a cliff among the untouched plains of a 3 000-hectare farm above the Doring River. Luxurious lodgings in the main farmhouse, four surrounding cottages and a glamping camp on a nearby pan – coupled with natural beauty and a landscape yearning to be explored – make this remote haven a magical destination all of its own. The eclectic decor sets the scene, a mix of explorer, colonial and contemporary, creating dreamy spaces in which to leave the world behind, relax and play.

The lodgings 

• 3 bedrooms in the main house (1 double and 2 queen beds)
• 2 one-bedroom cottages and 1 two-bedroom cottage (king beds)
• 1 three-bedroom family cottage (1 king, 1 queen + kids’ room with queen, ¾ and single)
• 1 glamping tented suite (2 queen beds) at the pan
• ensuite or shared bathrooms with bath and/or shower
• fully equipped kitchen
• 2 sitting rooms (one with flatscreen TV, one with fireplace)
• formal dining room
• furnished terrace with braai area/firepit and outdoor dining
• dining boma and bar (at tented camp)
• cottages with seating area, fireplace and patio

On the property

• 3 swimming pools (one at the main house, one at family cottage, one at tented camp)
• wood-burning hot tub (at tented camp)
• walking and hiking trails
• mountain-biking and quad-biking
• horse-riding and horseback picnics
• kayaking
• fly-fishing
• wildlife-watching at the pan/waterhole

Good to know There is a farm manager and full-time housekeeping staff to take care of guests, and a chef is available. Some activities are complimentary. Helicopter transfers can be arranged.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R29 000 per night (minimum two-night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Overberg

Kob Crescent

Where Lemoentuin near Malgas
Sleeps 12
The setting On the banks of the meandering Breede River, this remote hideaway is a family-holiday paradise… Generous garden space to play in (terraced lawns and walkways to follow amid milkwood trees), a river to explore (whether dipping, fishing, water-skiing, paddling or cruising), ample entertainment spaces for dining, playing games and hanging out together, and a bougainvillea-festooned deck with lovely spots from which to drink in the magnificent views. Some of the highlights are sitting around the fire pit soaking up the stars, or enjoying it from the warmth of the hot tub.  The stone house has been lovingly restored, filled with original features, offset by gorgeous contemporary decor.

The lodgings

• Main house: 5 bedrooms (1 king bed, 1 queen, 4 single beds, 4 bunk beds)
• 3 shared bathrooms with showers
• Cottage: 2 ensuite bedrooms (double XL beds), with lounge and fireplace
• Main house has a fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine + 4 fridges
• open-plan lounge and dining room with fireplace
• smart TV
• bluetooth speaker
• bar area with a dart board
• table tennis

On the property

• spacious deck with sofas, hanging chairs and loungers
• swimming pool
• braai area and pizza oven
• wood-fired hot tub
• trampoline
• riverside firepit
• SUPs and kayaks
• jetty, slipway and riverside deck
• ski boat hire with equipment available (on request with skipper license)
• 8km riverside walking/running/cycling path

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R14 500 per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Grootbos Luxury Villas

Where Near Gansbaai
Sleeps 8 – 12
The setting Amid rolling hills of ancient milkwood trees and swathes of fynbos (over 940 species), the 3 500-hectare Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is an extraordinary place where endless nature and tranquil luxury converge. With views right down to Walker Bay, this slice of serenity is a haven for nature-lovers and gourmet travellers alike. With so many unique and enriching ways to explore and experience it, Grootbos is a destination in its own right. It has two beautiful lodges offering five-star hotel accommodation, but the two privately located villas – Sunbird and Fynbos – are the pièce de résistance, for a luxury immersion in this landscape.

The lodgings

• Sunbird Villa: 4 bedrooms (king beds) with private patio
• Fynbos Villa: 6 bedrooms (king beds) with private patio
• ensuite bathrooms with freestanding bath and shower
• open-plan kitchen, dining room and breakfast nook
• lounge with fireplace (2 lounges in Fynbos)
• flatscreen TV in Sunbird, home-cinema room in Fynbos
• outdoor dining (plus 2 braai areas in Fynbos)
• swimming pool
• sea-view deck with loungers
• high-tech gym
• sauna and relaxation room in Sunbird
• pool table in Sunbird
• telescope in Fynbos
• wine cellar

On the property

• guided nature walks (fynbos and forest)
• horse-riding
• birdwatching
• botanical safari drives
• spa treatments
• Grootbos Florilegium, a botanical art gallery

Good to know A dedicated hospitality team (butler, chef, wine steward, housekeeper, guide) will take care of everything, from activities and experiences to meals (including breakfast, 3-course lunches and 5-course dinners).
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R128 800 per night (all-inclusive)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Morukuru Ocean House

Where De Hoop Nature Reserve, near Bredasdorp
Sleeps 12
The setting Fancy a spot of whale-watching from the comfort of your king-size bed? This five-star seaside sanctuary, along the scenic Whale Route of the southern Cape, is hugged by the ocean on one side and fynbos-dotted dunes and a wildlife-rich reserve on the others. An utterly stylish and eco-friendly beach house, with a full complement of staff to take care of everything (from meals and picnics to kids’ activities and fantastic sundowners), it’s the ideal place to rest your head after a day of outdoor pursuits, or strolling along the empty, unspoilt shoreline.

The lodgings

• 4 ensuite sea-view bedrooms (king beds) + 1 children’s bedroom/study (sleeps 4 kids under 16)
• open-plan lounge and dining room with fireplace
• spacious patio with outdoor dining
• rooftop terrace with bar and lounge
• wine cellar
• 10-metre swimming pool
• pool deck with loungers
• outdoor bath/hot tub

On the property

• snorkelling and swimming in rock pools
• 50km shoreline, with guided marine walks
• dunes for sandboarding
• fynbos walking trails
• hiking and mountain-biking trails
• nature drives
• whale-watching (in season)

Good to know The property comes with a private butler, chef, housekeeper, nature-drive vehicle and guide. All meals, drinks and activities are included. A childminder can be arranged.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R44 000 per night (all-inclusive)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

SeaPad

Where Gansbaai
Sleeps 4
The setting A five-minute drive from Gansbaai, on the Cape’s beautiful Whale Coast, lies Romansbaai Beach & Fynbos Estate – a wonderfully secluded retreat. Here, perched on the edge of a private beach surrounded by fynbos, this stunning, bijoux villa takes centre stage. A mere 150 metres from the shore, SeaPad offers breathtaking views and a 24/7 soundtrack of crashing waves. The architect-designed home has interiors to match – decidedly contemporary, with warm accents softening the pared-back look. Floor-to-ceiling windows and a deck allow you to simply soak up the scenery.

The lodgings

• 1 master bedroom with king bed (ground floor)
• 1 bedroom with king bed (top floor) with a private patio
• ensuite bathrooms
• fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine + wine cooler
• open-plan lounge and dining area
• B&O music system
• remote-operated blinds and shutters

On the property

• deck with loungers
• swimming pool
• gas braai and charcoal Weber
• access to a private, sheltered beach
• fynbos walking trails
• whale-watching (in season)
• resident zebras, springboks and bonteboks

Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R7 750 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Perivoli Lagoon House

Where Stanford
Sleeps 8
The setting On the shore of the Klein River Lagoon, where the sounds of birdlife and majestic flamingos soaring across the tranquil water set the scene, Perivoli is a hidden haven with 140 hectares of untouched fynbos surrounding it. Hands-on hosts Simoné and Henckert welcome guests to their ultra-contemporary, architect-designed villa (decorated by Simoné herself, who was inspired by the splendid wilderness surrounding it). There is an abundance of indoor and outdoor living areas with deep sofas and panoramic views of the lagoon and mountains, plus the gourmand’s kitchen comes complete with a herb garden. Nature-lovers will be in their element on guided fynbos walks, while a beach excursion to Walker Bay Reserve – for G&Ts on the dunes – is an unforgettable highlight.

The lodgings

• 4 bedrooms with king beds (or twin beds) and private terrace
• ensuite bathrooms with a bath and shower
• open-plan living and dining area
• interactive kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances and a herb garden
• wireless sound system
• eco-pellet fireplaces in every room
• wellness and fitness centre

On the property

• heated infinity pool and sun loungers
• large deck with seating and outdoor dining
• braai area
• direct access to the lagoon, with kayaks included
• speedboat with tubes and skis
• open safari-type 4×4 vehicle for trips into Walker Bay Nature Reserve
• mountain bikes
• walking trails and guided walking excursions
• access to 18km of nature-reserve beach
• bush/boma dining experiences

Good to know The property is offered as all-inclusive (with a guide, butler, chef and housekeeper) or on a self-catering basis (but with a private chef available for booking individual gourmet experiences).
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R46 600 per night (all-inclusive)
From R20 200 per night (self-catering)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Restio River House

Where Pringle Bay
Sleeps 10
The setting This contemporary-chic, double-level villa, alongside the Buffels River in the picturesque, seaside eco-village of Pringle Bay, offers the best of both worlds: riverside relaxation and beachside bliss, with views of the estuary, white-sand beaches, ocean and mountains. The sophisticated, clean-lined interior is simply jaw-dropping, enclosed within floor-to-ceiling windows, while the sumptuous setting speaks for itself.

The lodgings

• 5 bedrooms (2 king beds, 2 queen and twin ¾ beds)
• 4 ensuite bathrooms with a shower and/or bath
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan living room with 2 fireplaces
• 2 TV lounges with flatscreen satellite TVs and DVD player
• spacious dining area
• Sonos music system

On the property

• sheltered outdoor lounge
• braai area
• pool table, foosball and table tennis
• trampoline
• riverside deck
• kayaks supplied
• direct access to riverbank and hiking trails

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes (by arrangement only)
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R10 400 per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Do you have a favourite? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

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