Stellenbosch Accommodation: The 15 Best Places to Stay

The City of Oaks is, unsurprisingly, one of the Cape’s most popular destinations, offering locals and out-of-towners an enchanting taste of life in this beautiful corner of the Winelands. With heritage architecture (it’s the second-oldest town in SA), world-renowned wine farms, superb restaurants, a vibrant museum and gallery circuit, swanky boutiques and hiking and biking trails, there’s more than enough to keep visitors entertained, no matter how long you stay or what time of year you visit.

And you will want to stay… From quaint vineyard cottages and elegant mountain manors to boutique boltholes and contemporary eco-cabins, we’ve rounded up a range of accommodation options that’ll make your sojourn in this charming town one you’ll never forget.

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

Lanzerac Hotel & Spa

Setting Rolling vineyards, lush gardens and the Jonkershoek mountains surround this three-century-old wine estate in Stellenbosch, creating a certain type of peace and quiet that can only be experienced in this neck of the woods. In addition to exquisite rooms and a spa that knocks the socks off even the most well-heeled resorts in Europe, this five-star destination has four dining venues, each with its own distinctive character, and a cutting-edge tasting room and deli (your stay includes a complimentary tasting and cellar tour). The heritage property is filled with magical nooks to discover, so there’s really no need to venture beyond its gates, although the centre of town is five minutes away.

The lodgings

• 53 individually decorated rooms (Classic and Luxury Rooms, Junior Suites and Suites)
• king-size bed (can be made into twins)
• ensuite bathroom with a bath and shower
• tea/coffee station with Nespresso machine
• private outdoor terrace (except Classic Rooms)
• private plunge pool (in 5 Suites); one suite also has a jacuzzi
• satellite television
• lounge and desk area
• indoor fireplace
• fully stocked minibar (replenished daily)
• air-conditioning and underfloor heating
• a pillow menu
• 24-hour room service

Things to do

• The Manor Kitchen for continental buffet and hot à la carte breakfasts (included), dinner, Saturday high tea and Sunday lunch
• Lanzerac Deli for light breakfasts, lunches, coffee and pastries
• Taphuis bar for gourmet pub-style lunches and dinners
• Craven Lounge for small plates, tipples, cigars and a Gentleman’s Tea (Saturday)
• spa treatments and hydro facilities, including a heated indoor pool
• wine-tasting on site, including a wine-and-chocolate pairing
• whisky-tasting experience
• guided walks and cycling
• hiking and mountain-biking trails in Jonkershoek Nature Reserve

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per room
Cost From R6 895 per room per night
Where to find it Lanzerac Road, off Jonkershoek Road, Stellenbosch
MAKE A RESERVATION

Banhoek Lodge

Setting On the edge of the Helshoogte Pass, overlooking a sea of vineyards and towering mountains in the distance, Banhoek Lodge is like an idyllic slice of Tuscany or Provence. Although a 10-minute drive from town and a stone’s throw from some of the best wine farms in the area, it has the air of being at one with the valley, with nothing but the quiet charm of the countryside to keep you company. The light, airy, spacious rooms have foldaway doors that open to magnificent views – what better way to start another beautiful day in the Winelands?

The lodgings

• 7 rooms (4 Deluxe Rooms, 2 Junior Suites and 1 Superior King Suite)
• extra-length king-size beds (or twin beds)
• ensuite bathroom with a bath and shower
• furnished balcony or patio
• lounge area in Suites
• gas or wood-burning fireplace
• air-conditioning and underfloor heating
• smart TV with DStv
• minibar stocked with local wines
• tea/coffee station

Things to do

• daily breakfast (included)
• pool courtyard with loungers
• in-room spa treatments
• nearby hiking and mountain-biking trails
• five wine farms within walking distance (some with dining or picnics)

Good to know Guests receive complimentary wine-tasting vouchers for Zorgvliet and Thelema.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per room
Cost From R3 240 per room per night
Where to find it Helshoogte Road (R310), Stellenbosch
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Spier Hotel

Setting Characterised by old-fashioned hospitality, creativity, sustainability and a wonderfully tranquil atmosphere, Spier Wine Farm is one of those multifaceted destinations that offers visitors, young and old, dozens of reasons to visit – so much so that it can’t be fitted into a single day, which makes staying over even more alluring. Its hotel, set alongside the Eerste River, is arranged in a colourful village style (with groups of elegant rooms clustered around six private courtyards with their own garden and pool). Guests receive a complimentary bottle of wine and a wine-tasting voucher.

The lodgings

• 76 rooms (Signature, Garden Terrace, Riverside and Riverside Terrace) + 4 Suites
• king-size bed (can be made into twins)
• ensuite bathroom with a bath, shower and double basins
• private shaded patio or balcony
• spacious lounge area
• satellite TV
• tea/coffee station and minibar
• air-conditioning and ceiling fan

Things to do

• daily breakfast (included)
• swimming in the pool
• spa treatments
• vineyard segway tours
• farm walks, food garden and Elemental play garden
• dine at Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery, the Farm Café & Deli or hotel restaurant
• farm picnics and Bubbles & Braai pop-up (weekends)
• wine-tasting and blending
• hotel shop and craft market
• Eagle Encounters
• mountain-bike trail on site
• rotating art exhibitions at the Old Wine Cellar

Good to know The Garden Terrace Rooms can sleep 2 children under 12 years on roll-out beds or cots. The hotel has a Kids Clubhouse (included in the rate).
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 adults per room
Cost From R3 050 per room per night
Where to find it Baden Powell Drive (R310), Stellenbosch
Important note Spier is closed for renovations until April 2025.

MAKE A RESERVATION

Bonne Esperance Boutique Guest House

Setting This grand Victorian landmark, nestled among the trees and foliage on a quiet street corner in the heart of Stellenbosch, is loved by locals for its rich history. Built in 1907, it has had many owners over the years, collecting wonderful stories and anecdotes along the way. Once a family home and student boarding house, it has become a beautiful guesthouse in a landscaped English garden, offering the perfect mix of historical charm, modern luxury and attentive service.

The lodgings

• 17 rooms (Classic, Classic Family, Loft, Deluxe and Petite Single)
• king- or queen-size beds (or twin beds on request)
• ensuite bathroom with a shower
• seating area and desk (with USB charging station)
• flatscreen TV with DStv
• minibar and Nespresso machine
• balcony or patio (in Deluxe rooms)
• air-conditioning
• 8 self-catering studios in a separate building with kitchenette and lounge/dining space

Things to do

• daily breakfast (included) on the verandah
• swimming pool
• landscaped garden and sunny terrace
• communal lounge with fireplace
• mobile beauty spa
• two-minute walk from restaurants, cafés, wine bars and shops

Good to know Two Deluxe rooms can be interleading for a family. The one-bedroom apartment is suitable for families, with a sleeper couch, full kitchen and private patio with plunge pool.
Child friendly? Yes, 6 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per room (+ 1 child in some rooms)
Cost Rooms: From R1 880 per night for two people sharing
Studios: From R2 510 per night for two people sharing
Where to find it Corner of Neethling and Van Riebeeck Streets, Stellenbosch
MAKE A RESERVATION

Twice Central Guesthouse

Setting A mere two-minute walk from Dorp Street, this beautifully renovated guesthouse oozes modern comfort and style. As the name suggests, its central location offers an inside look into Stellenbosch culture, while its quiet, relaxed interior and garden holds all the appeal of a peaceful Winelands getaway. The seven-roomed lodging pampers guests with ever-changing gourmet breakfasts, attentive service and well-considered details in the rooms. Stay in the private garden suite next to the pool and you’ll have loungers reserved just for you.

The lodgings

• 1 ground-floor room, 5 upstairs rooms (2 with a furnished balcony), 1 garden suite
• extra-length king bed (or twin beds)
• open-plan ensuite with a bath and/or rainshower
• minibar fridge, Nespresso machine and tea/coffee station with Smeg kettle
• flatscreen TV with select DStv channels
• seating and desk
• air-conditioning
• communal indoor/outdoor lounge with books and magazines

Things to do

• daily breakfast on the patio (included)
• dip in the plunge pool
• walking distance to restaurants, cafés, wine bars, art galleries and shops

Good to know Two rooms are interleading for a family to book.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per room
Cost From R2 650 per room per night (depending on season)
Where to find it 7 Hamman Street, Stellenbosch
MAKE A RESERVATION

Clouds Estate

Setting This aptly named boutique hotel and wine estate, owned by a Dutch couple who fell in love with the Winelands when they holidayed here in 2000, sits amid the mountains atop the Helshoogte Pass, one of the highest in the region. The contemporary architecture (all wood, glass and natural materials) takes full advantage of the location, with the rooms, restaurant and bar-lounge blessed with spectacular views of the valley and vineyards below. Spaces are filled with the owners’ designer furniture and a curated South African art collection; in the garden, guests can relax on cocoon-like sunbeds beside the pool, sipping on some Clouds bubbly…

The lodgings

• 7 luxury hotel rooms and 6 semi-detached villas
• king-size bed (or twin beds on request)
• ensuite with a bath and/or shower and heated floor and towel rails
• lounge area and desk
• lounge, dining table and fully equipped kitchen in villas
• private patio/balcony with outdoor seating
• smart TV with DStv and Blu-Ray player
• Nespresso machine
• complimentary minibar
• private jacuzzi deck (in Room 7)

Things to do

• daily breakfast (included)
• two swimming pools (one for the villas and one for the hotel)
• à la carte dining at the restaurant
• wine-tasting on-site
• spa treatments at neighbouring Delaire Graff (guests transported in a golf cart)
• hiking and mountain-biking in the Banhoek Conservancy

Good to know Cloud 9 villa is the only one with two bedrooms, both ensuite. Villas 10 and 11 can be interleading for a larger group.
Child friendly? No in hotel (16 years and older), yes in villas (12 years and older) on sleeper couch
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per room and villa
Cost From R2 950 per night for two people sharing
Villa: From 4 200 per night for two people sharing
R950 per night per extra person
Where to find it Helshoogte Road (R310), Stellenbosch
MAKE A RESERVATION

Delaire Graff Lodges & Spa

Setting At the top of Helshoogte Pass, this majestic estate beckons those with a penchant for the high life (you’re literally floating above the Banhoek Valley). Committed to utter perfection, absolute comfort and relaxation, the luxury suites (which have recently been redecorated) are all rather sumptuous (the “smallest” are 70m²), with their own private pools and indoor/outdoor living. The property has much to offer, including a superb day spa, award-winning wine (ranked 36th on the list of the World’s Best Vineyards) and two excellent restaurants. Stroll through the magnificent buildings and gardens and you’ll chance upon works from owner Laurence Graff’s personal art collection.

The lodgings

• 14 suites (Deluxe Garden, Luxury Vineyard and Superior Lodges)
• 2 Presidential suites with 2 bedrooms and full kitchen
• king-size bed
• marble ensuite with a bath and rainshower
• dressing room
• butler’s kitchen
• fully stocked complimentary minibar (and estate wines in selected suites)
• tea/coffee station with Nespresso machine
• spacious lounge (with fireplace in Presidential suites)
• flatscreen TV with DStv/Netflix and Bose music player
• furnished terrace
• private heated plunge pool (12-metre pool in Presidential Suites)
• air-conditioning

Things to do

• daily breakfast (included) at Indochine or in-room
• spa with a sauna, steam room, 22-metre infinity pool and jacuzzi
• fine dining at Indochine and Delaire Graff Restaurant
• Wine Lounge with by-the-glass and tutored wine-tasting
• garden and vineyard walks
• art and estate tours
• Graff jewellery store and luxury boutique on site
• walking and trail runs

Good to know The accommodation will reopen on 16 October. Watch this space…
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 4 per suite
Cost From R14 400 per person sharing per night
Where to find it Helshoogte Road (R310), Stellenbosch
MAKE A RESERVATION

Majeka House & Spa

Setting Tucked below the Hottentots-Holland Mountains, surrounded by vineyards and forests, the suburb of Paradyskloof is, as its name suggests, a slice of paradise. Here, in a quiet residential street, a two-minute drive from the bustling town centre, this award-winning, designer boutique hotel takes centre stage. A destination in its own right – with a heavenly spa and five-star lodgings – it offers a tranquil urban escape in beautiful, manicured gardens. All rooms are individually decorated and art-filled (gorgeous wallpaper, rugs and fabrics; the ceilings in some bedrooms will send you into dreamy sweet slumber). Some share a private plunge pool and mini-forest; others look over a herb garden, koi pond and the surrounding mountains.

The lodgings

• 21 rooms (10 Premier, 3 Garden, 4 Mountain View and 4 Poolside)
• ensuite bathroom with a bath and/or shower
• flatscreen TV with DStv
• lounge area
• minibar
• Lavazza coffee machine
• private patio
• air-conditioning
• fireplace

Things to do

• daily breakfast (included)
• outdoor pool and sun terrace
• indoor heated pool with sauna and steam room
• spa treatments and hair salon
• M Lounge for cocktails and local wines (open until 10pm)
• Eden Forest trails and Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden close by

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per room + 1 child (0-15 years)
Cost From R3 120 per night per person sharing
Where to find it 26-32 Houtkapper Street, Paradyskloof, Stellenbosch
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Sugarbird Manor Cottages

Setting On the outskirts of Stellenbosch in the majestic Devon Valley lies Protea Heights, a 21-hectare flower (and wine) farm that’s home to Sugarbird Manor. With vistas straight out of Under The Tuscan Sky, the property’s perch at the top of a vineyard-covered hill offers exquisite panoramas of the valley, with the Helderberg, Simonsberg and Jonkershoek mountains looming in the distance. There are just four sleek, modern, loft-inspired self-catering cottages, set apart from the main guesthouse, so you can immerse yourself in this fynbos wonderland in peace.

The lodgings

• king-size bed
• ensuite bathroom with a shower
• fully equipped kitchen with coffee machine
• open-plan lounge and dining area
• flatscreen TV
• furnished patio
• air-conditioning

Things to do

• farm-style breakfast (included)
• swimming in the infinity pool
• on-site Botanica wine tasting
• Bottelary Hills Conservancy MTB Trails

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per cottage
Cost From R2 723 per cottage per night
Where to find it Devon Valley Road, Stellenbosch
BOOK NOW

De Zeven Guest Lodge

Setting On the majestic mountainside of the tranquil Banhoek Valley that stretches between Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, this stunning lodge in an indigenous garden is flanked by sweeping vineyards and scenic fynbos-dotted slopes. These pristine surrounds create a splendid sense of seclusion, while the rooms offer the utmost comfort and style (think raw-brick walls, beamed ceilings, wooden shutters, plush furnishings and huge windows and sliding doors). It’s a retreat for mind, body and soul, from the pampering wellness offerings to the “martini” seats in the pool for ultimate sundowners.

The lodgings

• 4 Pool Suites, 7 Manor House Rooms
• king-size bed
• ensuite with freestanding bath and/or shower
• seating area
• tea- and coffee-making facilities
• air-conditioning (in most rooms)
• indoor fireplace (in Room 1)
• pool-facing patio table and chairs outside Pool Suites
• private courtyard with outdoor bath (in Room 1)
• private balcony facing Botmaskop (in Room 2)

Things to do

• daily breakfast (included)
• beauty and wellness treatments
• panoramic infinity pool
• sun deck with loungers
• sauna with a view
• indoor/outdoor lounge and viewing deck (charcuterie board and light dinner available by prior arrangement)
• hiking and mountain-biking trails in Banhoek Conservancy
• private-label wines available only here
• top wine-farm restaurants close by

Good to know There is a minimum two-night stay.
Child friendly? No (only 16 years or older)
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per room
Cost Manor House Rooms: From R4 500 per night
Pool Suites: From R5 900 per night
Where to find it Zevenrivieren Road (off the R310), Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch
MAKE A RESERVATION

River Manor Boutique Hotel

Setting A five-minute stroll from the buzz of the centre, this beautiful boutique hotel on the banks of the Eerste River combines classic décor with an old-world charm that suits its small-town location perfectly. A peaceful ambience washes over you as you enter the two adjoining manor houses (one a former rectory, the other a Victorian town house), where friendly staff, immaculate interiors and picturesque gardens filled with water features await.

The lodgings

• 18 rooms (Studio, Standard, Superior and Deluxe)
• king-size beds (some four-poster)
• ensuite bathroom with a bath and/or shower
• seating area and desk
• flatscreen TV with DStv
• complimentary bottled water and sherry
• outdoor lounge area and terrace
• tea- and coffee-making facilities
• air-conditioning
• 24-hour room service

Things to do

• daily breakfast (included)
• 2 swimming pools
• wine or cocktails and a light meal on the terrace
• The Library (a brandy bar)
• spa treatments available
• short walk to cafés, restaurants, wine bars, art galleries and shops

Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per room
Cost From R1 560 per room per night
Where to find it 6–8 The Avenue/Die Laan, Stellenbosch
MAKE A RESERVATION

Camissa Farm

Setting Experience a “living-in-the-country” dream that’s been turned into wonderful reality. A once-neglected tract of land with magnificent mountain views has been lovingly transformed into a productive small-scale farm, with free-roaming cows, sheep and chickens, and a bounty of vegetables, olives, avocados and nuts. It welcomes an array of happy guests to stay in the modern-rustic timber cabins or two-storey loft in the barn – all five options are off-grid, decorated with flair and have phenomenal views.

The lodgings

• Camissa Cottage (3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms with shower)
• 3 cabins at the dam (Avocado, Almond, Rosemary) with ensuite bedroom (king-size bed) + sleeping pod (queen bed)
• Bed in the Shed loft apartment with king-size bed and ensuite shower
• open-plan lounge with a flatscreen TV
• fully equipped kitchen with dining table
• indoor fireplace (except loft apartment)
• outdoor deck with seating
• braai area and/or firepit
• wood-fired hot tub (except Bed in the Shed)
• air-conditioning and ceiling fans

Things to do

• swimming in the farm dam
• scenic farm walks
• picnics
• hiking and mountain-biking trails
• wine-tasting next door (1.5km stroll)

Good to know There is a minimum two-night stay.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 6 per unit
Cost Cabins: From R2 500 per night for two people
Loft: From R1 500 per night
R500 per night for an extra guest/child
Where to find it Zevenrivieren Road (off the R310), Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Vergenoegd Löw Vineyard Suites

Setting One of the earliest farms to be granted in the Cape (the grand homestead dates from 1773, a national monument), this wine estate between the mountains and sea has splendid views and atmosphere in spades, and manages a perfect balance of tradition, authenticity and modern style. The four vineyard suites are modern cubes built within touching distance of the vines, and decked out in luxury – from the thick rugs and plush velvet headboard to the marble bathroom. You’re perfectly situated to enjoy all the delights on offer at your leisure, from top-notch food and wine to incredible sunsets and the simple pleasure of accompanying the famous flock of Indian runner ducks on their daily waddle to and from the vineyards.

The lodgings

• extra-length king-size bed with luxury linen
• bathroom with rainshower and double basins, plus outdoor shower
• seating area with flatscreen TV and Netflix
• tea/coffee station with Nespresso machine and minibar
• furnished deck with loungers
• private plunge pool or jacuzzi
• air-conditioning

Things to do

• two top restaurants on site, Geuwels and Clara’s Barn
• wine-tastings on site
• spa treatments on site
• gym and yoga room on site
• farm walking trail

Good to know The rate includes a welcome drink, fruit basket, limited minibar, full SA breakfast at Geuwels and a wine tasting.
Child friendly? Yes (from 12 years old)
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 per suite
Cost From R6 400 per night for two people sharing
Where to find it Faure Village Road, off Old Faure Road (M49), off the R310, between Stellenbosch and Somerset West
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Bartinney Vineyard Cottages

Setting On the scenic, vine- and fynbos-clad slopes of the Botmaskop Mountain in the Banhoek Valley, these immaculately restored, classic Cape-style vineyard cottages exude charm and authenticity. Furnished with a mix of Jordaan family heirlooms, artworks and contemporary touches, they’re magical self-catering boltholes where you can live the countryside dream. The historic wine farm they’re built on boasts awe-inspiring views of the Drakenstein and Simonsberg mountain ranges, with a tasting cellar on site, and a small passionate team of staff on hand to assist you with anything you may need during your stay.

The lodgings

• 4 cottages: The Loft (one bedroom), Vineyard and Candlewood Cottages (two bedrooms) and Wild Olive House (three bedrooms)
• king-size, double or twin beds
• ensuite bathrooms with a bath and/or shower
• fully equipped kitchen
• open-plan lounge and dining room
• indoor fireplace (except The Loft)
• private terrace and braai area
• flatscreen TV with Netflix
• ceiling fans

Things to do

• Tasting Shed for on-site wine- and gin-tastings, platters and purchases
• Wine & Fynbos Experience
• swimming in the pool and dam
• farm walks
• Skyfall mountain-biking trail
• visit the buzzy Bartinney Wine & Champagne Bar in town

Good to know Exclusive-use booking of all four cottages is possible.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2 – 6
Cost The Loft: From R2 000 per night
Candlewood Cottage: From R3 450 per night
Vineyard Cottage: From R3 750 per night
Wild Olive House: R4 200 per night
Where to find it Helshoogte Road (R310), Banhoek Valley, Stellenbosch
MAKE A RESERVATION

Languedoc Cabin

Setting Tucked away in the exquisite Blaauwklippen Valley, 10 minutes’ drive from town, Languedoc Farm offers a blissful rural escape flanked by lush farmlands and a small vineyard. An English country garden filled with 70-year-old trees creates a sense of enchantment, with a path that leads down to the river. There are three accommodation offerings, but it’s the secluded one-bedroom wooden ‘Cabin in the Woods’ that is the most charming and romantic. Inside, it’s all cosy luxury; outside, there’s a rocky duck pond with a dreamy outlook of horses grazing in green meadows. The perfect space to breathe out and unwind.

The lodgings

• extra-length queen bed
• ensuite bathroom with a shower
• fully equipped kitchen with a gas stove
• open-plan living area with fireplace
• smart TV for streaming
• large verandah with seating and dining table
• outdoor firepit/braai

Things to do

• walks in the gardens and beside the river
• hiking trails in nearby forest and up the Helderberg
• mountain-biking nearby
• wine-tasting nearby

Child friendly? Yes, from 12 years
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 2
Cost From R1 900 per night (minimum two-night stay)
Where to find it Blaauwklippen Road, Stellenbosch
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

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