The 10 Best Places to Stay in Stanford

A quaint riverside village, surrounded by lush meadows and rolling hills, Stanford is the kind of idyllic countryside paradise envisioned by writers such as Thomas Hardy and the Brontë sisters. Declared a Heritage Site in 1992, it remains one of the most well-preserved villages in the Western Cape, famous for its Cape Victorian and Edwardian architecture.

Having lived in the shadow of its close neighbour, well-heeled Hermanus, a recent spate of great restaurants and other attractions has seen Stanford emerge as a standout travel destination in its own right. So, if you’re keen to visit any time soon, we’ve compiled a list of the warmest, most hospitable guesthouses and countryside cottages this town has to offer.

Coot Club

Setting On the water’s edge of the Klein River estuary is a dreamy, retro-inspired holiday resort and conservation wonderland, where abundant birdlife flits through the fynbos and 400-year-old milkwood thicket that surrounds some stone cottages and the historic Spookhuis. That “ghosthouse” is now the Clubhouse, around which all the action happens. It’s a natural playground perfect for a fun-filled family getaway, and a stay in the tin-roofed, timber-walled Boathouses makes it extra-special.

The lodgings

• 3 boathouses: the two-bedroom Starboard + two three-bedroom Port boathouses
• ensuite bathrooms with shower
• open-plan living room (lounge, dining + kitchen) with fireplace
• snug room with 2 sofa beds
• small private lawn/garden
• 4 stone cottages (Fynbos, Milkwood, Garden and Lawns + Little Lawns): one to three bedrooms, open-plan living room and kitchen, verandah, braai and firepit

Things to do

• 2 swimming pools
• kayak, SUP and swim in the lagoon
• explore on a fatbike
• lawns for games (boules, volleyball, etc)
• games room with foosball, table tennis, pool table and board games
• picnics and braais
• meals at the Clubhouse
• daily sundowners on the jetty or around the fire
• nature walks, including to Walker Bay Beach
• whale-watching from the dunes (in season)
• conservation activities

Good to know There is a minimum two-night stay and a conservation levy of R160 per guest over 13 years old. Breakfast is complimentary; dinner costs R350 per person, R175 per child
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 4 – 6 (+ 2 children under 13 years)
Cost Boathouses: From R5 500 per night for two people (including breakfast)
From R1 000 per additional guest; from R500 per additional child bed
Stone cottages: From R3 080 per night
Where to find it Wortelgat Road, Stanford
MAKE A RESERVATION

Stanford Valley Country Lodge

Setting Rolling hills, lush meadows, vineyards, majestic horses – this country escape in the Klein River Valley is a bucolic fantasy come true (all 440 hectares of it). The whitewashed cottages have a charming, rustic feel, and many are kept warm by cosy fireplaces. Waterblom, the latest addition, is set a little further from the rest, overlooking a lily-filled pond. In addition to the natural beauty and tranquil surrounds, the hands-on hosts are warm and generous (dropping off drinks or a picnic basket on request), plus there’s a fantastic restaurant on the estate.

The lodgings

• 6 two-bedroom cottages (Waterblom, Protea, Milkwood, Stables, Pincushion + Bluebell – the latter are connected) + 1 one-bedroom cottage (Erica)
• 10 ensuite double rooms (Sagewood and Fynbos)
• king or twin beds
• bathroom with bath and/or shower + outdoor shower in some
• covered verandah
• kitchenette and braai facilities (in cottages)
• tea/coffee station and minibar fridge
• fireplace in cottages + selected rooms (unlimited firewood)
• wood-burning hot tub at Waterblom
• breakfast is available a la carte

Things to do

• country cuisine at the Manor House Restaurant
• walks on the farm, through fynbos fields
• picnics (catered)
• shaded swimming pool area with loungers
• large dam for paddling or swimming
• 16km mountain-biking circuit on site (exclusive use)
• hiking trails
• art gallery
• spa with wood-fired sauna + cold plunge pool
• wine-tasting on-site and nearby

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per room, 2 – 5 per cottage
Cost Rooms: From R1 950 per night; extra single bed R225
Cottages: From R2 150–R3 900 per night
Waterblom: From R5 800 per night (minimum two-night stay)
Where to find it R326, near Stanford
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Setting A treasure trove of fynbos and ancient milkwood trees, Grootbos is an extraordinary place where rare 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. Luxury five-star accommodation and facilities, coupled with unique experiences and memorable meals (3-course lunches and 5-course dinners), prove to be a seductive combination. This is an African safari of a completely different kind.

The lodgings

• Garden Lodge: 11 luxury one- or two-bedroom freestanding suites
• restaurant, wine cellar, heated pool, wellness area with sauna and kids’ playroom
• Forest Lodge: 16 luxury freestanding suites for couples
• restaurant, barista bar, wine cellar, forest boma, infinity pool, forest spa and library
• suites with a lounge, fireplace, minibar, smart TV and private deck with sea views

Things to do

• guided nature walks and hikes
• horse-riding through the fynbos
• birdwatching
• 4×4 botanical safari
• visit an ancient coastal cave
• spa treatments (additional cost)
• wine-tasting and wine-and-food pairing, plus 3 local wine-route tours (additional cost)
• a one-of-a-kind botanical art gallery depicting the rare plants found here
• fat-biking over dunes, marine safaris, river cruises and boat-based whale-watching can be arranged (additional cost)

Good to know There are also 2 ultra-luxurious private villas, Fynbos and Sunbird, with private chef, butler and guide.
Child friendly Yes (Garden Lodge)
Pet friendly No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 4 per suite
Cost From R28 000 per suite per night (full board + selected activities)
SA resident Spring Special: R7 450 per person sharing, plus half-price for spa treatments (1 September – 10 December 2024)
Where to find it R43, between Stanford and Gansbaai
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

White Water Farm

Setting Nguni cows, horses, chickens, alpacas and springbok roam free on this peaceful farm in the Klein River Valley. Dating back to 1846, it combines historic charm with a modern country feel, where gardens shaded by oak trees, the scent of hydrangeas and roses, and the towering mountains set the scene for an enchanting country escape – complete with rooster alarm clock. The lodgings, in various farm buildings, are characterful and beautifully decorated with antiques, heirlooms and art.

The lodgings

• 3 Dairy Suites + 2 Barn Suites: king bed, ensuite bathroom, kitchenette + lounge with fireplace
• Gatehouse Cottage: four-poster king bed, ensuite bathroom with Victorian bath, kitchenette, lounge with a fireplace + private patio
• Farmhouse: 3 bedrooms (2 queen beds and twin beds), 2 bathrooms, full kitchen, large living area with a fireplace + private patio with braai
• Farmhouse Deluxe Suite (adjacent to Farmhouse): large bedroom with a fireplace, 2 bathrooms + private courtyard with an outdoor shower

Things to do

• breakfast basket delivered (braai, burger + pasta baskets also available)
• bass fishing in the farm dams (trout fishing extra cost)
• shaded pool area with loungers and cabanas
• on-site spa
• farm animal encounters/feeding for kids
• hiking trails in nearby Phillipskop Mountain Reserve
• surrounding wine estates

Child friendly? Yes (except Gatehouse)
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per suite; 6 in Farmhouse
Cost Suites: From R2 650 per suite per night
Cottage: From R3 100 per night
Farmhouse: From R5 850 per night
Where to find it R326, near Stanford
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Perivoli Lagoon House

Setting On the shore of the Klein River Lagoon, where majestic flamingoes soaring across the tranquil water set the scene, Perivoli is a hidden haven within 140 hectares of untouched fynbos. The ultra-contemporary, architect-designed villa has been decorated with inspiration from the splendid wilderness surrounding it. There are indoor and outdoor living areas with panoramic views of the lagoon and mountains, a large deck for alfresco dining, and the state-of-the-art kitchen comes complete with a herb garden. The property is available for exclusive-use only, either on a self-catering or fully inclusive basis.

The lodgings

• 4 bedrooms with king beds (twin beds on request)
• ensuite bathrooms with a bath and shower
• private terrace and eco fireplace in bedrooms
• open-plan living and dining area with fireplace
• wireless Sonos sound system
• large deck with outdoor table and braai area
• heated infinity pool and sun loungers
• state-of-the-art kitchen with Nespresso machine
• scullery with dishwasher + laundry room
• ceiling fans, air-conditioning and underfloor heating

Things to do

• swimming in the pool
• paddling on the lagoon (kayaks supplied)
• cycling (mountain bikes supplied)
• in-house massages
• access to isolated beach and shoreline in Walker Bay Reserve
• guided fynbos walks
• beach excursion, with G&Ts on the dunes
• a speedboat with tubes and skis is available to use
• river cruises
• 4×4 open safari vehicle for use in Walker Bay Reserve
• fatbiking and quad-biking
• wine-tasting and vineyard tour
• wellness centre and gym
• special kids’ programmes
• archery

Good to know The inclusive package includes a team dedicated to your stay, with a guide, chef, butler and housekeeper; three gourmet meals daily and selected drinks are served at your convenience, and most activities. If self-catering, a private chef is available on request.
Child friendly? Yes (childminder service on request)
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 8
Cost From R22 050 per night (self-catering)
From R53 550 per night (all-inclusive)
Where to find it Wortelgat Road, Stanford
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Vineyard Cottage at Goodluck Homestead

Setting Brimming with heart and good energy, this regenerative farm is a bucolic living-in-the-country dream, from bee-keeping to growing veggies. Owner Alex Chouler hand-built this special eco cottage using on-site timber, clay and straw (super-cosy in winter); it’s solar- and gas-powered, and plumbed with spring water. For utter immersion in country life – birdsong and hooting owls included – this is the spot to indulge in fire-cooked meals, sunset hot-tub sessions beside the vines and beautiful views all the way to Walker Bay.

The lodgings

• 1 bedroom with four-poster king bed
• bathroom with Victorian bath and walk-in shower, plus outdoor shower
• open-plan living area with dining table, seating and fireplace
• fully equipped kitchen with gas stove and fridge
• verandah with table, loungers and braai
• wood-fired hot tub
• garden area

Things to do

• explore the farm and veggie gardens
• dam for swimming and boating (canoes and rowing boat supplied)
• picnicking on the jetty
• hiking trails
• Panthera big cat sanctuary close by (4km)
• wine-tasting nearby
• beaches nearby

Child friendly No
Pet friendly No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2
Cost From R2 800 per night (minimum two-night stay)
Where to find it Papiesvlei Road, off the R326, near Stanford
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Haes Farm

Setting This 40-hectare, fynbos-rich organic farm takes you off the beaten track into the hills, where you’ll find views that stretch from the stunning Stanford Valley all the way to the ocean. The immaculate property was designed to take sustainability and harmony with nature to a whole new level, sourcing produce and products as locally as possible. It’s very much a contemporary eco-retreat, filled with art and design pieces. Haes caters to no more than four guests at a time (no under-18s), preserving the intimacy and warmth of the experience.

The lodgings

• 2 luxury suites with king bed
• bathroom with shower with a view
• seating area and desk
• private terrace
• hospitality tray and Nespresso machine
• writing desk, books and magazines
• standing fan for cooling

Things to do

• breakfast included
• relax on the garden-side verandah
• braai area with verandah and seating
• cosy library-lounge with a fireplace
• walks on the farm through orchards and fields
• biking trails
• canoeing on the nearby Klein River
• beaches and wine estates nearby

Good to know There is a minimum two-night stay.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per room
Cost From R3 200 per room per night (including breakfast); from R2 000 single rate
Where to find it Papiesvlei/Elim Road, near Stanford
MAKE A RESERVATION

Fynbos Suites at Farm 215

Setting In the off-the-beaten track Uilkraal Valley between Stanford and the Agulhas Plain, Farm 215 is an awe-inspiring 800-hectare nature retreat and fynbos reserve offering an exhilarating escape surrounded by beauty. The fragrant plant life and quiet call of the countryside create a sense of peaceful seclusion, while the three modern cabins – built to blend into the landscape – offer ultra-stylish comfort and floor-to-ceiling windows to appreciate those views of the plains, a dam and vineyards (including from the bathtub).

The lodgings

• 1 ensuite bedroom with king bed
• bathroom with bath and shower
• fully equipped kitchen with counter dining
• open-plan lounge with wood-burning fireplace
• furnished deck with dining table and gas braai
• hot tub/plunge pool

Things to do

• swim in the communal 25-metre lap pool
• hiking trail (3 hours)
• forest walks (and plant a tree if you like)
• mountain-biking trails
• picnics
• wine-tasting nearby
• bird- and wildlife-spotting; whale-watching (in season)
• swim and walk at Pearly Beach and Franskraal Beach nearby
• restaurants and river activities in Stanford (30 minutes’ drive)

Good to know Guests can elect to plant a tree. There is also House on 215 and Fynbos Hill House for groups.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per suite (+ 1 child under 12 years)
Cost From R2 650 per night (minimum two-night stay)
Where to find it Uilkraal Valley, off R43 (Elim/Baardskeerdersbos Road), near Gansbaai
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Goodluck Farmhouse at Goodluck Homestead

Setting Just outside town, between mountains and sea, Goodluck Homestead is the quintessential countryside escape. Up to now, only couples could enjoy the delights of this passion-project regenerative farm, but the newly built Farmhouse has plenty of space – and plenty of lovely spaces – for gatherings of friends or family. With its lofty ceilings and large picture windows, it’s a light-filled haven of lovely views, decorated in a clean, contemporary style. The perfect backdrop for enjoying meals, games and conversations around the fire, reading and afternoon naps punctuated with fresh-air walks and swims in the nearby dam.

The lodgings

• 4 bedrooms with king-size beds and single beds
• 4 ensuites with freestanding bath and/or shower, plus an outdoor shower
• fully equipped kitchen with gas stove
• open-plan lounge and dining room with fireplace and wine fridge
• yoga/meditation attic room (or for children’s beds)
• furnished verandah with dining table
• built-in braai and firepit
• garden and lawn area
• complimentary firewood

Things to do

• explore the farm and veggie gardens
• dam for swimming and boating (canoes and rowing boat supplied)
• picnicking on the jetty
• fishing in the dam
• hiking trails
• Panthera big cat sanctuary close by (4km)
• wine-tasting nearby
• beaches nearby

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 8 – 10
Cost From R9 000 per night (minimum two-night stay)
Where to find it Papiesvlei Road, off the R326, near Stanford
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Rivergate Guest Farm

Setting There’s country charm and understated luxury aplenty at Rivergate, on the banks of the Klein River. The property is home to an array of animals, including alpacas, chickens, geese, dogs, miniature donkeys and miniature goats, adding to its authentic rural appeal. There are seven restored farm cottages decorated with carefully sourced Cape country furniture, beautiful fabrics and collectables. The picturesque six-hectare gardens include manicured flowerbeds, orchards and a flourishing vegetable patch.

The lodgings

• Woodrose Cottage (rondavel-shaped): 1 ensuite bedroom (queen bed)
• Dairy Shed, Carpenter’s Cottage + Gardener’s Cottage: 1 ensuite, open-plan bedroom (king bed or twins)
• Potters Shed and Stable Cottage: 2 ensuite bedrooms (queen beds)
• Gatehouse: double-storey cottage with 3 ensuite bedrooms (king, queen + twin beds)
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan living area with a fireplace
• dining tables indoors and outside
• covered furnished verandah with built-in braai
• garden with wood-fired hot tub (in five cottages)
• upstairs balcony with seating (Gatehouse)

Things to do

• breakfast basket delivered daily
• farm walks and picnics
• The Barn farm shop and daytime Eatery (Fridays + Saturdays, pop-up Sunday lunches)
• farm-animal encounters for kids
• fishing, swimming and canoeing at the river
• hiking and mountain-biking trails nearby
• wine estates in the area

Good to know Guests can order cheese boards, braai baskets, pasta baskets and other meals to enjoy in their cottage. There is a minimum two-night stay.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 6 per cottage
Cost From R2 400 per night (including breakfast)
Gatehouse: From R6 600 per night (including breakfast)
Where to find it Wortelgat Road, Stanford
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Which are your favourite? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

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