Let the good wines flow at one (or more) of these…
Panoramic vineyard vistas, sumptuous comfort and a relaxed rural ambience define the boutique hotels found on some of the Cape’s most spectacular wine farms.
All offer spellbinding views and, naturally, superb wine; some have stupendous farm kitchens where delicious dishes are concocted; others offer luxurious spas designed to elevate any wine-farm experience to the next level.
We’ve rounded up our favourites for a (p)lush getaway.
Delaire Graff
Setting Inspired by the landscape, culture and natural splendour of its Cape Winelands setting, Delaire Graff Estate is a destination devoted to beauty and flawless hospitality. Created by renowned diamantaire Laurence Graff OBE, and positioned atop the Helshoogte Pass, the peace and serenity of its breathtaking setting are palpable. Exceptional facilities include Japanese-inspired Hōseki restaurant, headed by Michelin-trained chef Virgil Khan, Delaire Graff Restaurant featuring classic bistro favourites with fresh South African twists, award-winning wine, a luxurious spa, a striking sculpture garden, two boutiques, and more.
The lodgings There are five luxurious accommodation options, each varying in size and splendour, namely Garden Lodges, Luxury Lodges, Superior Lodges, Presidential Lodges and the Owner’s Villa (which sleeps eight and is perfect for families). Each boasts panoramic vineyard and mountain views, leading onto its own private terrace with a heated pool. Inside is a fully stocked bar fridge, an LED TV, Bose music station, fireplace, luxury bathroom products, fine-cotton linen and a pillow menu.
Things to do Aside from being an exquisite place to enjoy a superb wine tasting, Delaire Graff is the full package when it comes to fine-dining in the winelands. In addition to the superb day spa, there’s an outdoor swimming pool, gym, sauna and steam room.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R27 500 per night for two people (includes breakfast)
Where to find it Helshoogte Road, Stellenbosch
MAKE A RESERVATION
La Residence
Setting Nestled among sweeping vineyards, plum orchards and olive groves in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley, this 12-hectare estate is the epitome of countryside elegance. Elegant interiors curated by founder Liz Biden complement the breathtaking surrounds, while warm, professional service makes this hidden hideaway all the more desirable for a luxurious Winelands retreat.
The lodgings There are 11 stylishly adorned Luxury and Superior Suites within the main hotel, each of which sleeps two. Outside, the five larger Vineyard Suites offer a secluded sense of privacy for families or friends travelling together. Suites are individually decorated with their own colour scheme, antiques, magnificent artworks and tasteful lashings of modern splendour, while Vineyard Suites each feature a private plunge pool and outdoor dining area.
Things to do La Residence is home to two scenic swimming pools, a luxurious treatment room, a well-known restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, and a wine-tasting cellar. Keep an eye out for roaming wildlife, such as miniature horses, springboks, guinea fowl and strutting peacocks. Complimentary transfers are available for those looking to explore the boutiques, restaurants and art galleries in the town centre, or some of the neighbouring wine farms.
Child friendly? Yes (children over 10 in the main hotel; children of all ages in the Vineyard Suites)
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R9 200 per person sharing per night (includes breakfast)
Where to find it Elandskloof Private Road, Elandskloof Farm, Franschhoek
MAKE A RESERVATION
La Cotte Farm
Setting An undeniable sense of peace and tranquillity (it’s hard to believe that a bustling town is just a short walk away), coupled with beautifully appointed lodgings, makes this country escape dating back to 1698 a firm favourite for people visiting the quaint village of Franschhoek. Aside from being an ever-popular wedding venue (one look at the scenic surrounds and you’ll understand why), this beautiful wine farm is also a sought-after destination for those seeking a quiet reprieve in a bucolic setting.
The lodgings Surrounded by spectacular gardens, the Manor House Hotel – an elegantly restored Cape Dutch homestead – contains four Pool Rooms (opening onto the pool), four Mountain Rooms (overlooking the majestic mountains) and the two-bedroom Pool House, which has its own kitchen, living room and private veranda.
Things to do Take a leisurely dip in the hotel pool, sunbathe on the luxurious loungers, enjoy a delicious breakfast or lunch at the La Cotte Restaurant or head to the view-drenched bar for afternoon or evening drinks. And of course, the many delights of Franschhoek are just a stone’s throw away.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R4 444 per room per night
Where to find it 24 La Cotte Street, Franschhoek
MAKE A RESERVATION
Babylonstoren
Setting This picturesque farm, dating back to 1692, lies in the Drakenstein Valley in the heart of the Cape Winelands, almost halfway between Franschhoek and Paarl. In addition to producing excellent wine, the farm is home to a five-hectare garden that supplies three restaurants, a serene Garden Spa, a modern wine-tasting centre, a boathouse with canoes, endless dirt roads (which guests can explore on the available mountain bikes) and a pervasive sense of tranquillity.
The lodgings Contemporary comforts on a historic working farm make this stylish hotel a Winelands favourite. Guests have the option of staying in either the Farmhouse, Manor House, Fynbos Cottages, Fynbos Family House or Garden Cottages. All units reflect an authentic Cape Dutch style and feature a beautifully curated collection of books in every room – plus wood-burning fireplaces, silky sarongs, sturdy wellies for wandering around, a delicious daily breakfast and complimentary bottles of Babylonstoren wine (best enjoyed at sunset on the picture-perfect private verandah in select cottages).
Things to do Where to begin?! A destination in its own right, Babylonstoren boasts an abundance of attractions. Enjoy a farm-fresh breakfast at Babel Restaurant before taking a slow saunter through the Provençal-inspired garden, impeccably designed by Patrice Taravella. Lunch is served at the conservatory-style Greenhouse Restaurant, while a number of delicious goods, including freshly-baked delights from the farm’s bakery, can be found at The Farm Shop, which includes the Milk Room, Coffee Roastery, Gelato Room, Meat Room and Lekker Room (where you can find an array of sweet treats and roasted nuts). Scrumptious Italian-inspired meals are served in The Old Bakery on Monday, Tuesday and Friday evenings, and it also hosts Carnivore Evenings on Wednesdays and Sundays. There’s also a glass-encased wine-tasting centre, various regular workshops (from baking to foraging and soap-making) and a luxurious garden spa.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R12 200 per night for two people (includes breakfast)
Where to find it Babylonstoren Road, Franschhoek
MAKE A RESERVATION
The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel
Setting Set in the magnificent Constantia Winelands, surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens and picturesque vineyards, with Table Mountain looming in the distance, this well-heeled escape (a member of Small Luxury Hotels of The World) is a veritable oasis that makes the world outside seem irrelevant and far removed. Actually, with excellent restaurants and bars, a sumptuous spa, two swimming pools, a gym, a tennis court and 3.6 hectares to wander among woodlands and vines, there’s really not much reason to leave…
The lodgings There are 51 elegant rooms (Double and Luxury Double) and suites (standard and Premier Suites, both with a spacious lounge), as well as two double-story, self-contained villas (the secluded two-bedroom Liz McGrath Villa and the uber-exclusive three-bedroom Madiba Villa, which has its own heated pool). Expect fluffy bathrobes, flat-screen TVs, hot water bottles waiting for you in your bed on cold, wintery nights and many other comforts and luxuries.
Things to do Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at The Conservatory (an elegant restaurant in an idyllic woodland setting), relax with cocktails and light bites on the Conservatory Terrace, or sip on a contemporary cocktail at the Greenhouse Bar (overlooking the lush gardens), pamper yourself at the Fresh Wellness Spa (we recommend the Five Senses Signature Massage), indulge in a Classic High Tea in the light and airy Greenhouse, work up a sweat at the gym or tennis court and then take a dip in one of the hotel’s heated swimming pools.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Small dogs are welcome in the Villas and select Premier Suites.
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R4 994 per room per night (depending on room type and season, includes breakfast)
Where to find it 93 Brommersvlei Road, Constantia, Cape Town
MAKE A RESERVATION
Lanzerac
Setting Rolling vineyards, lush gardens and the Jonkershoek mountains surround this three-century-old wine estate in Stellenbosch, creating the kind of peace and quiet that can only be experienced away from the city. In addition to exquisitely refurbed rooms and a spa that knocks the socks off even the most well-heeled European resorts, this five-star destination boasts three dining venues – each with their own distinctive character – and a cutting-edge tasting room and deli. There’s also a cigar bar reminiscent of an old Victorian gentlemen’s club, featuring a roaring fireplace and a carefully curated selection of wines, craft beers and spirits, as well as a variety of small plates.
The lodgings Lanzerac’s 54 rooms and suites are individually and stylishly decorated, with all the modern facilities and creature comforts needed to make your stay memorable, from a fireplace to a fully stocked minibar.
Things to do The estate sits in the foothills of the Jonkershoek Valley, granting easy access to the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve and the smaller Assegaaibosch Nature Reserve. Guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the region with guided walks and bike rides in the reserve, or explore the history of Stellenbosch with a guided walking tour of the town. The Manor Kitchen is where guests can enjoy an opulent buffet breakfast, dinner, afternoon tea or sumptuous Sunday lunch, while the Tasting Room & Deli is perfect for lazy nibbles under the trees.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R7 500 per night for two guests (includes breakfast)
Where to find it 1 Lanzerac Road, Stellenbosch
MAKE A RESERVATION
Bosjes Herehuis
Setting Off the beaten track, at the foot of the Waaihoek Mountains, Bosjes is a breathtaking Breede Valley hideaway with exceptional views, magical gardens and awe-inspiring architecture. Fortunately for us, the 1790 manor was recently converted into a boutique guest house, where designer Liam Mooney drew inspiration from the setting and Cape Dutch architecture. He retained many historical features (such as the beautifully carved front door and yellowwood ceilings), adding contemporary, local touches that subtly echo the place’s heritage.
The lodgings Stay in one of 12 gorgeous luxury suites (Standard, Premier, Executive, Master or Family), boasting modern four-poster beds, cosy fireplaces and comfy couches, plus a private plunge pool in most suites. Each unit sleeps two adults, while the more spacious Family Suites also contains a mezzanine with single beds for two children.
Things to do Bosjes is a natural playground, whether it’s those award-winning landscaped gardens that draw you in, or the wilder mountain paths. Add an excellent bistro, deli-café, tea garden, Boombrug canopy walk and vertical labyrinth, onsite spa, heated lap pool, sunroom, library and that wave-roofed chapel, and you’ve got a real spoil of a stay. Further afield, you can try 4×4 off-roading in the Matroosberg reserve, ziplining in Ceres, freshwater fishing at Brandvlei Dam and wine-tasting in the Breedekloof.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R5 800 per suite per night (including breakfast and dinner)
Where to find it Off the R43 near Ceres
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La Petite Ferme
Setting With arguably the best panoramas of the Franschhoek Valley and surrounding mountains, this intimate boutique hotel has always had a decidedly well-heeled reputation, despite its laidback ambience and the one-and-all appeal of its vineyard-facing front lawn. Perched on the northern slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains, all the rooms – as well as the charming glass-fronted restaurant – boast spellbinding valley and vineyard views.
The lodgings There are 15 rooms in total – five Vineyard suites, each with its own private pool, five Manor House Suites that open onto a shared pool, and five Winery Suites overlooking their own shared pool. Not surprisingly, all rooms are decked out with the requisite mod-cons – from king-size extra-length beds to a living area, mini-bar with complimentary wine, smart TV and more.
Things to do There’s plenty to do on the estate: pool-lounging, leisurely walks, strenuous hikes, mountain-biking on one of the estate’s fleet of bicycles, and a complimentary guided vineyard tour where guests can taste a selection of exclusive estate wines. There’s also a view-drenched onsite restaurant that serves a delicious selection of daily dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R8 090 per room per night
Where to find it Franschhoek Pass Road, Franschhoek
MAKE A RESERVATION
Leeu Estates
Setting On the slopes of the Dassenberg mountains lies a 78-hectare wine farm with an immaculately restored Manor House, boasting sublime views of the surrounding vineyards, gardens and fynbos beyond. It’s owned by Indian entrepreneur Analjit Singh, who acquired the property after a serendipitous visit to Franschhoek in 2010, during which he felt “a deep sense of belonging, of energy, a sense of place.” (Incidentally, Singh means lion in Sanskrit, which translated into Afrikaans is leeu.)
The lodgings There are three room types (Classic, Deluxe and Studio), three suite types (Executive, Executive With Terrace and Manor House) and six beautiful cottages. Whichever you choose, you’ll find it elegantly and individually styled, with bespoke furniture, natural materials and textures, calming colour palettes and meticulous attention to detail.
Things to do Take a meditative stroll through the Bokkie Garden before relaxing at the serene, view-drenched Leeu Spa by Healing Earth, where you’ll find a deliciously inviting indoor plunge pool. The acclaimed restaurant, The Dining Room, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and there’s The Wine Studio for oenophiles – the Signature wine-tasting of Mullineux and Leeu Family Wines is included in the room rate. A scheduled three-minute complimentary shuttle will take you to Franschhoek’s pretty high street.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R14 500 per room per night
Where to find it Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek
MAKE A RESERVATION
Mont Rochelle Hotel
Setting As he’s known to do, Sir Richard Branson took a 17th-century hilltop estate in the magnificent Franschhoek Winelands and turned it into Leisure Land, where polished service, plush (yet pared-back) furnishings and an unbeatable location are all part of the Virgin experience. The rooms are individually designed in a luxurious but laid-back aesthetic, combined with surprising and fun touches to create a haven for guests. Exposed-beam ceilings and oversized floor-to-ceiling windows offering killer views of the valley enhance the luxe factor.
The lodgings There are 26 luxurious rooms (including two uber-luxurious Cap Classique Suites), as well as the private Manor House (comprising four deluxe suites and a bunk room for children). Expect every comfort and luxury, from uber-comfy king-size beds to Nespresso machines and flat-screen TVs, and – in each Cap Classique Suite – a private plunge pool.
Things to do There’s more than enough to keep you busy, entertained and – above all – supremely happy on this magnificent estate. Take a dip in the heated outdoor swimming pool, try your hand at tennis, boules or croquet, pamper yourself at the tranquil Africology spa, work up a sweat in the vineyard-facing gym, dine at Miko and The Country Kitchen restaurants, or enjoy a personalised wine-tasting and a cellar and vineyard tour.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Manor House on request
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R6 300 per room per night
Where to find it Dassenberg Road, Franschhoek
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Steenberg Hotel & Spa
Setting Nestled in the Constantia Valley, overlooking False Bay, lies the sprawling Steenberg Estate. The oldest farm in the Constantia Valley and founded way back in 1682, this is far more than a wine estate; it’s home to a five-star hotel, two acclaimed restaurants, a golf course, a cutting-edge tasting room and a serene spa, making it a destination in its own right.
The lodgings The luxurious hotel is situated on a quiet corner of the farm and boasts 24 individually decorated rooms and suites, which vary in size and splendour and feature ensuite bathrooms, tea- and coffee-making facilities, satellite TV and complimentary WiFi. Each Premier Room has its own private terrace, and guests seeking additional space and privacy can opt to stay in a two- or three-bedroom villa.
Things to do The two onsite restaurants, Bistro Sixteen82 and Tryn, specialise in tapas and contemporary farm-inspired dining. Golf-lovers can spend the day honing their skills on the superb 18-hole golf course, while those looking to relax and unwind can do so at the world-class spa or by the sun-soaked pool, before enjoying a spot of wine tasting.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R6 850 per couple per room per night (1 April 2024 – 30 September 2024)
From R10 070 per couple per room per night (from 1 October 2024)
Where to find it Steenberg Road, Constantia Valley, Western Cape
MAKE A RESERVATION
Adara Palmiet Valley
Setting On the eastern outskirts of Paarl (where the most magnificent mountain views are), this 16-hectare estate is a dreamland of vineyards, guava orchards, jacaranda trees and a beautiful park-like garden filled with flowers and old oak trees. It’s also steeped in history, dating back to the 18th century. Following three years of careful restoration, the new owners (whose other boutique hotel is on Lake Constance in Germany) offer superb hospitality
The lodgings Rooms and suites are divided between four Cape Dutch buildings, one being the original 1754 manor (Jacaranda House), another the old stables (Mountain View House). Some rooms are under cosy thatch roofs, with petite balconies; others have a lounge, kitchenette, patio or private garden with a pool. Expect all the luxuries, from sumptuous bed linen, marble bathrooms, air-con and underfloor heating to bathrobes, slippers and TV with Netflix. The lavish Palace Suite and Presidential Suite come with full kitchens and dining areas, fireplaces, multiple bedrooms and outdoor living spaces; the Vineyard House can be booked for exclusive use.
Things to do Lounge beside the pool or explore the farm on peaceful walks. Head to the restaurant for Mediterranean fare, or enjoy the estate’s wines (chenin or shiraz) on the sundeck. There is a cheetah sanctuary next door, a Franschhoek Wine Tram stop down the road and Paarl Rock is nearby. All of the Winelands attractions, from wine-tasting to mountain-biking trails and golf courses, are a short drive away, as is Cape Town.
Good to know Breakfast is included in the rate. The property is entirely off-grid, with its own water and power sources.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost Rooms from R3 675 per night for two adults
Suites from R7 140 per night for two adults
R800 (child up to 12 years old), R1 500 (teen up to 18 years old)
Where to find it Sonstraal Road, Klein Drakenstein, Paarl
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Boschendal
Setting One of the Cape’s oldest wine estates, dating back to 1685, Boschendal boasts some of the most beautiful surrounds in the Cape Winelands, with dramatic mountain vistas visible from the lush, expansive lawns. In addition to award-winning food and wine offerings, the estate features beautiful accommodation, gourmet picnics on the lawn, a farm shop and butcher, an art gallery, a dedicated Trail Centre and a kids’ playground and pump track.
The lodgings There are 43 farm cottages scattered across the property, each boasting the perfect blend of contemporary finishings and rural charm. Guests have seven cottage types to choose from: the 12-sleeper Mountain Villa (complete with two lounges, a wrap-around terrace, an outside bar area, braai and pizza oven, swimming pool and private lake), the pet-friendly 10-sleeper Cottage 1685, the four-sleeper Clarence or Cow Shed cottages, seven stylish Werf Garden Suites, 18 secluded two-bedroom cottages at The Retreat, or 14 popular two-bedroom Orchard Cottages (flaunting majestic mountain views and a shared swimming pool).
Things to do An abundance of wonderful activities await, suited to couples and families alike. Foodies will be in heaven, with the acclaimed Werf Restaurant and the more casual Deli on their doorstep; outdoor enthusiasts will relish the hiking, mountain-biking and horse-riding trails; culture vultures will have loads to explore during farm tours; and oenophiles can do a wine-tasting in either Werf or the Cellar Door. There are also scenic farm picnics and a beautiful rose garden to wander through. And let’s not forget the Tree House, an exceptional outdoor edu-play centre and one-stop adventure zone for children, offering an array of fun and educational activities for kids between four and 14 years old.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Only Cottage 1685 (small to medium dogs)
Cost From R7 140 per cottage per night (includes breakfast)
Wifi? Yes
Where to find it Pniel Road R310, Groot Drakenstein, Franschhoek
MAKE A RESERVATION
Molenvliet Vineyards
Setting Turning off the Helshoogte Pass into this magnificent estate on the banks of the Banhoek River, you’re immediately transported into a tropical paradise. Ferns, palm trees and perfectly manicured gardens surround a scattering of beautiful buildings spread across the 14-hectare property. As you enter, the view-drenched pool deck immediately catches your eye, but it’s the unbelievable grounds, friendly staff and exquisite lodgings that really make this stay one you’ll never forget. Breakfast is served each morning at The River Manor and The Manor House, and there’s a golf cart to transport guests across the estate.
The lodgings There are four accommodation types designed to suit various tastes and occasions. The Manor House has six ensuite bedrooms, with vineyard and mountain views and a communal swimming pool, while The River Manor has four double ensuite bedrooms with garden views. The 13 ensuite Mountain View Suites each have a private balcony and, in some cases, a plunge pool, while the four double ensuite Guest Cottages have balconies and forest views. All rooms feature a fully stocked mini bar, air-conditioning, complimentary wifi and DStv.
Things to do So breathtakingly beautiful are the grounds that you’ll struggle to find a reason to leave. But if you’re keen to get out and about, there are many wonderful wine farms in the area, offering tastings and lovely lunches. And, of course, the cultural town centre is a short drive away. The estate also features a scenic pool deck with a bar for lazy afternoon lounging.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R4 570 per couple sharing per night
Where to find it Old Banhoek Road, Helshoogte Road, Stellenbosch
MAKE A RESERVATION
Laborie
Setting Nestled at the foothills of Paarl Mountain, this heritage wine estate – with a history dating back to 1691 – serves as a tranquil oasis in which modern facilities meet old-world charm. Here, you’ll discover breathtaking vistas, luxurious accommodation, wonderful restaurants, rolling lawns (perfect for seasonal picnics), fresh produce and locally sourced artisanal products at The Farm Grocer, along with unique wine-tasting experiences.
The lodgings Laborie offers several accommodation types to suit your needs. Werf luxury rooms and deluxe suites have easy access to the restaurants and The Farm Grocer, while luxury villa rooms and suites, just a stone’s throw from the main estate, are surrounded by rolling vineyards and offer spectacular mountain views. The entire six-bedroom villa can also be booked for exclusive use by larger families or groups of friends.
Things to do Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at the bistro-style Stoep restaurant, or head to Suzanne for coffee or cocktails with small plates and pizzas. Do a wine-tasting paired with canapés, and treat the kids to a milkshake pairing. Discover farm-fresh local and international produce and artisanal products at The Farm Grocer, and explore more than 200km of hiking and mountain-biking trails that lead from the estate onto the Paarl Trails network and into Paarl Nature Reserve. Laborie is renowned for hosting special events, and you can book your dream wedding or end-of-year function with great inclusive combos. There’s always something innovative happening on the farm, so be sure to check out their socials and website to stay updated!
Child friendly? Yes (there’s a special play area for the kids, too)
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R2 100 per room per night (depending on room type and season)
Where to find it Taillefer Street (off Main Road), Paarl
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Brookdale Estate
Setting The approach to Brookdale Estate is a car-stopping moment, as you whip out your phone in a vain attempt to capture the grandeur of the setting. Picture an expanse of green vineyards pooled around a white gabled homestead, which is dwarfed by the jagged peaks of the Drakenstein mountains. With several dining areas, a choice of lounges and a library, Brookdale offers top-end hosted luxury, just an hour away from Cape Town.
The lodgings Guests are accommodated in five double Manor Suites (in the Manor House) or in the more secluded double Vineyard Suite, which is located in an adjacent building. The hosts provide exceptional, five-star service; and with executive chef Gary Coetzee in the kitchen you won’t have a better meal in any of the fine-dining restaurants nearby.
Things to do When serial British entrepreneur Tim Rudd purchased what was then a severely neglected farm in 2018, he hoped to produce experimental wine blends by planting Mediterranean varietals unknown in South African terroir – and that decision is now literally bearing fruit. Visit Brookdale’s new Cellar and Tasting Room to sample the results, before enjoying a sumptuous lunch or dinner at The Bistro, surrounded by a sea of new vines. There is also a pool, fitness room and library and office, as well as seasonal wine activities and farm walks.
Child friendly? Yes, ideal for families booking exclusive-use as a private villa; two additional children under 12 can be accommodated when sharing a suite with their parents (two roll-away beds are available, plus a baby’s cot)
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R7 000 per suite per night (breakfast included); exclusive use of the Manor House from R40 600 (breakfast included)
Where to find it Hawequa Bos Pad, Klein Drakenstein, Paarl
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Vergenoegd Löw
Setting One of the country’s oldest working farms (dating back to 1696), this wine estate exudes both heritage and contemporary luxury. It’s also where conservation and regenerative farming practices are as important as what’s growing in the vineyards. In fact, there’s a famous flock of pest-controlling Indian Runner ducks that can be viewed up close on the lawn at 9am and noon every day as they make their way to and from the vineyards and the dam. There’s also a restored Cape Dutch homestead (declared a National Heritage site), a farm-style luxury spa, two wonderful restaurants and, of course, a selection of supremely tasteable wines.
The lodgings Choose between four Deluxe Lodge Rooms (in the Farm Lodge, the restored farm manager’s house) each featuring a jacuzzi; four contemporary (and more private) Vineyard Suites with their own plunge pools; or the opulent and expansive Presidential Suite with its own pool, jacuzzi and outdoor shower. There are also six freestanding Luxury Cottages, which sleep up to four guests and boast spacious living areas and private pool decks.
Things to do Enjoy an imaginative celebration of SA cuisine (including foraged ingredients) at chef Bertus Basson’s Clara’s Barn (five-course fine-dining set menus paired with wines) or relax at the more laidback Geuwels restaurant, which serves farm-style breakfasts and small-plate lunches daily. There’s also a luxurious spa in what was once the dairy, as well as delightful wine-tasting experiences – including the unique Indigenous Tasting, which presents the wines with local flavours like bokkoms, blatjang, biltong, amasi and spekboom.
Child-friendly? Yes
Pet-friendly? No
Wifi Yes
Cost From R5 580 per night for two people (includes breakfast)
Where to find it 1 Vergenoegd Road, off Old Faure Road (M49), Stellenbosch
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Silvermist Boutique Hotel
Setting High up on the slopes of the Constantiaberg mountains is Silvermist Wine Estate, best known for the highly acclaimed La Colombe restaurant that’s found within its grounds. What many do not know is that this magical estate is also home to a beautiful boutique hotel that, despite its proximity to the city, feels like a wonderfully remote retreat.
The lodgings The Silvermist Boutique Hotel features just seven individually decorated suites, each with an ensuite bathroom, small lounge with a wood-burning fireplace, and private outdoor patio boasting sweeping forest, vineyard or valley views. There is also a larger unit that sleeps four in two bedrooms, and two three-bedroom private lodges, each with its own pool.
Things to do After enjoying a poolside breakfast, the options are numerous: a scenic hike in the mountains, an exhilarating zipline through the trees, a lazy day by the pool, wine-tasting, bird-watching at sunset on your private patio with a glass of wine… and be sure to reserve a table for an unforgettable lunch or dinner at La Colombe.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi Yes
Cost From R3 100 per unit per night
Where to find it Main Road, Constantia Nek, Cape Town
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The Doolhof Hotel
Setting Nestled in a beautiful valley in Wellington, this elegant Cape Dutch manor house offers five-star luxury, spectacular mountain and vineyard scenery, creative cuisine and so much more – and all just 45 minutes from Cape Town. You’d be hard-pressed to find a prettier place, set as it is upon 380 hectares of sun-drenched vineyards, tranquil forests and thriving fynbos, and backed by three majestic mountain ranges. There’s even a river running through the estate, which promises guests the ultimate experience of both nature and nurture.
The lodgings There are six individually decorated luxury suites in the main house (three Elegant Suites and three Loft Rooms), as well as a freestanding thatched cottage for those seeking more privacy.
Things to do The Doolhof has plenty to offer, including a grand pool, tranquil spa, cosy lounge and library, various hiking and biking trails and, of course, superb wine-tasting experiences. Wander over to the estate’s elegant tasting room, where you can sample a selection of Doolhof wines, then enjoy a delicious lunch at the Mila Restaurant in the adjoining courtyard and old wagon house. On nearby estates, you’ll find horse-riding, clay pigeon shooting, quad-biking and golf (among other activities).
Child-friendly? Yes, 12 years and older
Pet-friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R3 690 per room per night
Where to find it Bovlei Road, Wellington
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Hazendal Hotel
Setting The rolling meadows of the Stellenbosch Winelands surround this beautiful new boutique hotel, which combines traditional Cape Dutch architecture with modern minimalism. Centred around a contemporary courtyard with a large heated swimming pool, the hotel boasts 34 luxury bedrooms, as well as a restaurant, spa, cigar lounge and bar, fitness centre and private 16-seater cinema. The black-and-white exterior is counterbalanced by the characterful interior brimming with bright artworks, flowerbeds and natural skylights.
The lodgings There are 22 Superior Rooms with private balconies and views of the courtyard, nine larger Luxury Rooms with private terraces and views of the dam and hills, two opulent Junior Suites with spacious outdoor decks and private jacuzzis, and the flagship Presidential Suite with a large living and dining area, bar, outdoor deck and private jacuzzi.
Things to do Pleasurable pursuits include The Deli (which also offers picnics on the lawn), pizzas and craft beers at The Eatery, fine dining at The Restaurant, the Wine Tasting Lounge, the Hazendal Spa, an 18-hole golf course, a Padel court and tours of the onsite art gallery. Hazendal also is home to Wonderdal, a one-of-a-kind fully supervised kids’ edutainment centre.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R5 120 per night (includes breakfast)
Where to find it Bottelary Road, Stellenbosch
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Grande Roche
Setting Celebrating three decades as a luxury Winelands destination, Grande Roche combines 300 years of history, stunning mountain views, classic Cape Dutch architecture and productive vines right up to the doorstep. Situated at the foot of the famous Paarl Rock, this five-star boutique hotel boasts luxurious accommodation, an innovative restaurant, expansive manicured gardens, a sparkling pool, a tennis court and all the elegance and charm of a bygone era.
The lodgings You’ll be spoilt for choice: there are 18 thatched Terrace Suites (dotted around the estate), five Heritage Suites in the old workers’ quarters, six Legacy Rooms in the restored coach and carriage houses, and the luxurious and totally private Garden Suite, in what was once the original stable.
Things to do With the arrival of chef Christiaan Campbell in late 2023, it’s become an all-day dining destination, with a broadened menu offering that caters for everything from a languid breakfast to a light lunch, opulent high tea or warm country dinner. There is a pool courtyard complete with palm trees, loungers and an indoor bar, a small treatment room for pampering and, of course, all of Paarl’s urban attractions just a short stroll away.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R4 114 per room per night (includes breakfast)
Where to find it 1 Plantasie Street, Paarl
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2 Responses to “The 20 Best Wine Farm Hotels near Cape Town”
Anka Zeeman-Reijnen
You forgot Clouds Estate!
Bruce Hutchison
Once again a long list of Hotels that are stuck in the dark ages with their unfriendly pet policies when compared to the European or UK country side establishments. The forward thinking Liz McGraw with her luxurious establishment being one of the two exceptions.