Royal Malewane, Greater Kruger
Stunning setting: in a private nature reserve, next door to the Kruger National Park - a super spot for game viewing. This impressive safari lodge combines colonial elegance with African hospitality and city luxe touches. Just 8 private, free-standing suites feature palatial living/bedroom areas, fireplaces, Victorian baths and indoor & outdoor showers. After an exilhirating day of game viewing , unwind with a spoiling treatment from the exceptional spa. 45 minutes from Eastgate Airport near Hoedspruit (all transport arrangements are taken care of by Royal Malewane). Rates from $1,005 per person, per night sharing.
Hoedspruit, Limpopo 1380 | www.royalmalewane.com | +27 15 793 0150
Birkenhead House, Hermanus
The place to stay if you’re visiting Hermanus. (same owners as above) An intimate hideaway with just 11 elegant, individually styled rooms and suites; book room 5 for a plunge pool and marble sunken bath and 1 or 2 for spectacular sea views (*although not as private as you descend to the dining room directly from your room - so my pick is room #6: trust me!). Unbelievable location, perched high on the cliffs over Walker Bay - a must for whale lovers. This is one of my favorite properties in the world. Watching whales with the crashing sea at reach - truly special, so best to go in season (August - November). Walk the beach path both to the left and right for some of the most gorgeous vistas you can imagine… before dining on the chef’s menu of the day. Tip: I don’t recommend a room in the Birkenhead villa unless you are renting the entire property & it’s best suited for families with children. 120 km from Cape Town. Room rates from $825.
7th Avenue Hermanus, Western Cape 7200 | www.birkenheadhouse.com | +28 314 8000
Ellerman House, Bantry Bay
A class act, with breathtaking views, right across the Atlantic to Robben Island. Truly feels like a family home - helped by the warm service, staff who have been there since opening! Decor is a mix of old-school elegant, teamed with all the mod-cons you’re used to… Loved the impressive art collection throughout, and the cookie room & complimentary whisky and sherry in cut glass decanters is a nice touch; again, home. The restaurant is a bit stuffy - I’d recommend one night in, the food is sublime! Spa-aholics will love the inviting treatment rooms in the Ellerman Villa next door; sporty types can walk to Clifton Beach, or let off some steam in the gym. Rent the Ellerman Villa for a truly spoiled and WOW effect - they’ve not forgotten a detail. Note: no children under 14 * Request room 16 - be sure to have photos of which room you have as some are sub-par, while others just gorgeous. 10 minutes to Central Cape Town. Room rates from $550.
180 Kloof Road, Bantry Bay, Cape Town, Western Cape, 8005 | www.ellerman.co.za | +27 21 430 3200
Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa, Franschhoek
Great base for exploring the vineyards of Western Cape, with gorgeous views of the Franschhoek mountains. 79 chic, neutrally decorated rooms are comfy, airy and staff are expert. Book a garden, vineyard or river suite for a balcony with stunning views, or a villa if you’re with kids. What to do? cycle or ride horseback through the countryside, explore the cute village of Franschhoek, shop & wine taste, then unwind in the pool. (NB: skip the spa - it lacks atmosphere and feels an after-thought.) So many great restaurants in the area - best to go out for all meals other than breakfasat on the sunny white terrace. 50 km from Cape International Airport. Rates from $250.
Minor Road 16, Franschhoek 7690 | www.lefranschhoek.co.za | +27 21 876 8900
Les Cascades de Bantry Bay, Bantry Bay
Just 7 minutes from the city, lies this unexpected hideaway with wonderful views. All 10 rooms are tranquil and stylish, with Bali-chic dark wood and leather furnishings. Stay in the main lodge if you’re after a traditional vibe, or in the villa for a funky, younger feel. Be sure to ask for a room on the top floor; the hotel is built into the hillside, so lower rooms are a bit dark. A cozy dining room with huge log fire, delicious food and South African wines (of course!) makes this property feel homey. No spa, and although kids are welcome, it’s not designed with little ones in mind. Room rates from approx $250.
48 De Wet Road Bantry Bay Cape Town, Western Cape, 8005 | www.lescascades.co.za | +27 21 434 5209
La Residence, Franschhoek
Elegant jewel located in one of South Africa’s oldest vineyards. This intimate guesthouse has just 11 rooms and suites. Feels like an old French chateau, with pretty European antiques, huge gilded mirrors, exotic rugs and original artwork. Space is the buzz word here; expect palacial bathrooms that open onto large sunny balconies, soaring views and fabulous living spaces. In the day explore the local region’s countryside, wines and cheeses or go trout fishing; by evening unwind in the home movie room or private library. A favorite with Bono and Elton John; follow in their footsteps and book the entire house complete with private chef, butler and chauffeur. 83 km from Cape Town. Room rates from $370.
Elandskloof Road, Franschhoek, Western Cape 7690 | www.laresidence.co.za | +21 876 4100
Le Quartier Francais, Franschhoek
A well-known lovely relais! Just 15 rooms and suites, French Provencal in style, opening onto a lovely rose-filled courtyard and pool. Great location for exploring the vintages or driving up into the mountains. Suitable for families (book the 2-room cottage) and couples alike. For a touch of hedonism nab a suite with it’s own roomy lounge, private pool and complimentary full bar. Gourmets will be sure to relish Margot Janse’s 8-course tasting menu - focused on local ingredients. After dinner, head to the private cinema, for a blockbuster with a touch of class… in-room beauty treatments are just what the doctor ordered! NB: I prefer to be outside town in the mountains but this is a little treat of a place. 45 minutes from Cape Town. Rooms rates from $410.
16 Hugenot Road PO Box 237 Franschhoek, Western Cape, 7690 | www.lequartier.co.za | +27 21 876 2151