The 10 Best Villas To Rent in Cape Town

With Cape Town regularly hitting the headlines as one of the world’s most desirable destinations, the choice of stunningly beautiful places to stay is larger than ever.

We’ve rounded up the very best of the Mother City’s rockstar villas, the stuff of wildest getaway fantasy. Splashing out on one of these beauties is worth it, and the stuff lifetime memories are made of.

From a rambling family villa above Noordhoek beach to an ultramodern architectural edifice in the City Bowl and an Ibiza-esque Camps Bay escape, these eyeteeth-worthy villas are ready when you are.

If you know of a beautiful holiday home that deserves to be on our list, please let us know in the comments below.

21 Nettleton

Where Clifton
Sleeps 12 adults + 6 children
The setting Hugging the fynbos-dotted slopes of Lion’s Head, 21 Nettleton occupies pride of place at the very top of what’s considered to be the most elite avenue in Cape Town. Boasting a Tuscan-style palatial exterior, with 360-degree views over Camps Bay and Clifton beaches, and the sparkling ocean beyond, it offers the ultimate trifecta in luxury: unique design, a killer location and superb service. It operates as an intimate boutique hotel but can also be booked as an exclusive-use villa for the ultimate in sought-after discretion, with the curated collection of quirky artwork and antique furniture providing a truly gorgeous backdrop to living the high life.

The lodgings

• top-floor Presidential Penthouse sleeping 2 adults + 2 children (1 king + 1 double rollaway bed), with two bathrooms, a steam room, several balconies, a separate lounge and daybed relaxation space, a dining area and a drawing room with fireplace and TV
• Steinway Suite with king-size bedroom, ensuite bathroom, large ocean-facing terrace, private library, separate lounge (with Steinway grand piano) and dining room
• Emperor Suite with king-size bedroom, ensuite bathroom and dressing room, separate lounge, large private terrace and an additional pull-down Murphy bed for two children
• Queen Suite with king-size bed, walk-in closet, free-standing bath in the bedroom,  ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower, and large, private outdoor terrace
• King Suite with super-king-size bed, open-plan bath area (freestanding bathtub and walk-in shower) and an outdoor living area overlooking the ocean
• All have air-conditioning, smart TVs, tea- and coffee-making facilities and all-inclusive bars stocked with wine, spirits and beer
• swimming pool and expansive garden area
• sauna and steam room
• private access to Lion’s Head hiking trails
• sunset tapas
• full English and continental breakfast
• baked treats and all-day snacks
• personalised in-room concierge iPad
• fully serviced with private chef, housekeeping, butler and villa manager
• VIP airport transfers

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R148 000 per night for exclusive use (depending on season)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Nimano Hillside

Where Noordhoek
Sleeps 8
The setting It’s not often that you find a luxury contemporary villa that really is designed with the whole family in mind. Nimano Hillside, with its stunning views to the ocean over the Noordhoek valley, was conceived as a holiday sanctuary for themselves and their kids by its German-Austrian owners – and they’ve thought of every last detail. The villa is beautifully airy – a double-volume thatched house with clean lines and contemporary furnishings that major on comfort. Open-plan living areas spill out onto deep verandahs and decks; a wraparound balcony soaks up sunset views from the bedrooms. Outside, intriguing paths wind past olive and fruit trees and shaded reading nooks to a secret yoga deck surrounded by indigenous gardens. There’s also a secluded playground with trampoline, climbing wall and an abundance of toys.

The lodgings

• 4 ensuite bedrooms with king- or queen-size beds
• chef’s kitchen and separate scullery with dishwasher
• open-plan dining room
• open-plan living room with sea views and feature fireplace
• TV lounge with fireplace
• study/office with garden views
• outdoor entertainment area with braai, pizza oven, dining table, bar counter and ice-cream station
• open fire-pit with teppanyaki grill
• heated 20m rim-flow swimming pool
• verandah with sun loungers, sun umbrellas, sofas, day beds
• large gardens with secluded yoga deck, fruit orchard and vegetable beds
• spa with sauna and outdoor shower
• trampoline, climbing wall, swing and playground
• private chef (Monday – Friday)
• solar system for back-up power
• air-conditioning
• security system
• surfboards, stand-up paddle boards, wetsuits, mountain bikes (2 of each)
• Harley-Davidson softail deluxe and BMW 650i convertible cabriolet (for additional fee)

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R30 000 per night (depending on season; minimum 7 night stay)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Bungalow 52

Where Clifton
Sleeps 5
The setting Designed by award-winning architects, this shore-hugging escape is reminiscent of a tropical seaside paradise (think St Barts, North Island in Seychelles or Soneva Fushi in the Maldives) with lashings of style and luxury. A few steps off your dreamy deck and you’re on the accolade-accruing Clifton 4th beach, where swims in the sea, lazy afternoon lounging and morning runs on the sand beckon. There’s even a surfboard and wetsuits…

The lodgings 

• two ensuite bedrooms, one with king-sized bed, bath and shower; one with queen-sized bed and shower
• one bedroom with three-quarter bed and access to a private bathroom with shower
• downstairs media room with old-school vinyls
• open-plan lounge
• state-of-the-art kitchen
• eight-seater dining area
• covered deck with sun loungers, hammock and day mattresses
• heated pool (with spa jets)
• braai area
• outdoor heated shower
• private garden and front lawn
• lock-up garage
• inverter for back-up power
• concierge services
• a welcome platter and two bottles of wine from the owner’s own vineyard, Grand Domaine in Stellenbosch
• private chef, butler and free daily cleaning service

Child friendly? Yes, but there are steps and an exposed pool with a mechanical cover
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R18 000 per night (depending on season)
MAKE A RESERVATION

One&Only Cape Town Lion’s Head Penthouse

Where V&A Waterfront
Sleeps 8
The setting High in the heart of the waterfront, One&Only Cape Town’s jaw-dropping Lion’s Head Penthouse is less a villa than a lifestyle. Luxurious furnishings, contemporary artworks and decor, and floor-to-ceiling windows create a spacious, light-filled and opulently comfortable escape. The views over Table Mountain and the Mother City are iconic to say the least, and you’re only a smooth lift-ride away from all the attractions of the V&A Waterfront, from world-class restaurants to shopping, boat trips and art galleries. Not to mention the luxurious facilities of One&Only Cape Town literally on your doorstep.

The lodgings

• 4 bedrooms (3 with king-size beds and 1 with twin beds) on the secluded lower level
• 4 ensuite bathrooms, all with bath and shower
• open-plan top level with two comfortable lounges, TV lounge and dining area
• fully equipped kitchen
• study
• guest bathroom
• terrace with outdoor lounge, ocean and Robben Island views
• outdoor dining area with gas barbecue
• plunge pool
• a dedicated host for the duration of your stay
• personal training sessions
• exclusive access to an Isola poolside cabana at the hotel’s swimming pool

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R25 500 (depending on season)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Cape Beach Villa

Where Noordhoek
Sleeps 14 (10 adults, 4 children)
The setting It’s not often that a property is better in real life than it appears in photographs! Cape Beach Villa on Noordhoek’s Long Beach is one such spot. Flaunting unbelievable 180-degree panoramas of the most beautiful strip of beach, this bright and airy, five-bedroom holiday house is as homely as it is hi-tech. The Afro-Scandi interior design has deep roots in its surroundings – all basketry, art, rugs, pottery and crockery are locally made – and blends seamlessly with the jaw-dropping setting. The inordinately beautiful views make escapes here heavenly, no matter what time of year you visit. Did we mention, you also have a private path to the beach below?

The lodgings

• three ensuite double bedrooms, with direct sea views, air-conditioning, pure-cotton linen and hairdryers
• one ensuite bedroom with double bed and four single bunk beds, sleeping up to six
• seaview lounge overlooking the pool and ocean
• cosy fireside reading lounge
• TV lounge
• spacious open-plan dining area
• Caribbean-inspired sunset bar
• fully equipped kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances and a walk-in fridge
• indoor braai and butler’s kitchen
• separate cottage (with double bedroom and lounge area) with sea views and direct access to garden
• 100% solar powered
• heated swimming pool and sun loungers
• wraparound wooden deck
• private access to beach
• outdoor shower

Child friendly? Yes, for children over 10
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R18 400 per night (depending on season; minimum 7 night stay)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

The Aven

Where Camps Bay
Sleeps 16
The setting This beautiful private villa on Rontree Avenue in Camps Bay oozes a luxe Ibiza-esque holiday vibe, with its polished concrete floors and minimalist off-white, cream and wood-textured interiors. Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Lion’s Head imbue the communal areas with a sense of calm that is carried through to each of the six bedrooms and the semi-private two-bedroom penthouse suite.

The lodgings

• eight bedrooms with queen-size beds
• ensuite bathrooms with a shower and/or bath
• lounge with a smart TV
• designated working spaces
• fully equipped kitchen
• fully stocked minibar
• terrace with a garden or ocean view
• breakfast daily
• room service daily
• swimming pool with views of the Atlantic Ocean
• plunge pool on the penthouse suite terrace
• uninterrupted power supply
• private garden
• secure parking

Child friendly? No children under 12 without prior arrangement
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R35 000 per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Atzaró Cape Town

Where Oranjezicht
Sleeps 14
The setting A dramatic glass eyrie perched on the divide between Table Mountain’s wild slopes and the city, you can’t better the views from this four-storey luxury villa. Watch the clouds wisping over the mountain top from the kitchen and living areas, gaze at Lion’s Head, Signal Hill and the harbour as you laze on the pool deck, and soak up 360-degree Mother City views throughout. Furnished with beautifully crafted natural wood pieces and light and breezy colours, the interiors blend easily into the surrounding nature.

The lodgings

• 2 master suites with ensuite bathroom, emperor-size bed, private lounge and terrace
• 5 suites with ensuite bathroom, king/twin or queen bed, and terrace or lounge area
• 2 guest bathrooms
• open-plan living spaces with fireplace, 14-seater dining table, drinks bar
• smart TV, music and entertainment system
• fully equipped kitchen
• outdoor lounging areas
• gardens and terraces
• swimming pool and large deck
• braai area and outdoor dining
• wellness suite with yoga studio, treatment room, sauna and juice bar
• gym with running, cycling and stepping machines, and weight training
• house manager, cleaners, food shopping and laundry services
• breakfast, welcome drinks and canapés
• air-conditioning
• off-street parking for 8 cars

Good to know Nothing is too big or too small for general manager, Xander, who will go out of his way to ensure your needs are met.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R33 750 per night (depending on season; minimum 3 nights)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Le Thallo

Hamish Niven Photography

Hamish Niven Photography

Hamish Niven Photography

Hamish Niven Photography

Where Camps Bay
Sleeps 10
The setting Surrounded by greenery with an uninterrupted front-facing view of Lion’s Head and the ocean in the distance, this luxurious villa perched high above Camps Bay offers a winning mix of location, serenity and privacy. The striking architecture, beautiful interiors and inescapable natural surrounds create a sumptuous escape where rest and relaxation are a given.

The lodgings

• five bedrooms with king-size beds (can be separated into twins)
• ensuite bathrooms with a shower and bath
• two guest bathrooms
• fully equipped kitchen, with washing machine, tumble dryer and dishwasher
• multiple living areas, one with a large TV
• 10-seater dining area
• two study areas
• wooden outdoor deck with an 8-seater dining area
• outdoor lounge
• braai area
• pizza oven
• swimming pool (heating optional at extra charge)
• three-car garage
• solar back-up power
• housekeeping service Monday – Friday
• air-conditioning and heating

Child friendly? Yes, but supervision is required at all times, because of the pool and multiple levels
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R14 000 per night (depending on season)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Pineapple House

Where Sea Point
Sleeps 10
Setting Conjuring fantasies of sipping Mai Tais on a beach in Hawaii, pineapples (according to the owners of this quirky pink-walled boutique bolthole) are synonymous with welcoming hospitality the world over. So, it made perfect sense to name their stylish Sea Point spot after the yellow-hued fruit. As a discreet boutique hotel it’s appealing, even better to book one self-contained half of the double-fronted property as an exclusive-use villa. Luxuriate in your own private urban oasis with its warm, welcoming atmosphere, colourful decor and luxe comfort, just a short walk from bars, restaurants, shops, and the buzzing Sea Point promenade where sunset strolls are a prerequisite.

The lodgings

• 5 rooms over 3 floors, decorated to individual, playful themes (penthouse suite has an additional sleeper couch for 2 children)
• ensuite bathrooms with rain shower
• private balcony or patio
• smart TV (DStv and Netflix access)
• air-conditioning
• tea- and coffee-making facilities
• fridge and minibar
• relaxation lounge with a fireplace
• plunge pool deck and rooftop sun deck
• complimentary daily breakfast
• private chef (optional)
• contemporary art throughout (all for sale)
• laundry service available
• airport transfers and city tours (on request)

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R30 000 per night (depending on season)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Waterline Villa

Where Noordhoek
Sleeps 8
The setting With wraparound views of the ocean, mountains and fynbos, this magnificent duneside villa – overlooking Noordhoek Beach – epitomises style and sumptuous seclusion. Modern architecture, carefully considered living spaces on two levels (leading to view-drenched decks upstairs and a tranquil garden downstairs) create a special focus on relaxation and make Waterline Villa a heavenly escape.

The lodgings

• four bedrooms with king-size, queen-size or twin beds
• four bathrooms (two ensuite) with bath, indoor rain shower and private deck with outdoor rain shower
• lower-level lounge with wood-burning fireplace and garden access
• upper-level lounge with ocean views and access to pool deck
• fully equipped chef’s kitchen
• 12-seater dining area
• library with desk and garden views
• TV room with smart TV and wireless audio system
• underfloor heating
• front deck with sea views, outdoor lounge, sun loungers and rim-flow pool
• back deck with outdoor entertainment area, gas and coal barbecues
• tranquil garden
• concierge service
• housekeeping service (on request)
• double garage and secure off-street parking

Child friendly? Yes, however, there is no safety net over the pool.
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R30 000 per night (depending on season)
MAKE A RESERVATION

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