South Africa has become one of the most popular destinations in Africa for tourists, and it’s not hard to see why. With incredible game viewing opportunities, a rich local culture, vibrant cities, beautiful beaches, and of course, fabulous wine, there is something for everyone in South Africa. One of the highlights of a trip to the country is a visit to the Cape Winelands, located just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town. Here, visitors can indulge in exquisite wines, enjoy stunning scenery, explore charming towns, and indulge in luxury accommodations. In this article, we will highlight some of our favorite luxury hotels in the Cape Winelands.
La Residence, located in the Franschhoek Valley, is a stunning property set on a 30-acre estate. Part of The Royal Portfolio, which has several hotels in South Africa, La Residence is known for its opulent design and unique art collection. The hotel’s owner, Jill Biden, has an expert eye for design, and it shows in every detail of La Residence. The hotel is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding scenery. Food is of utmost importance at La Residence, with the executive chef taking a sustainability-based approach to the menu. The emphasis is on local and indigenous produce, with much of it sourced from the surrounding area. La Residence is also committed to supporting local charities and community initiatives, making it an exceptional hotel that supports the local community.
Another must-visit property in the Cape Winelands is Babylonstoren. Located in the Franschhoek Valley, Babylonstoren is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms in South Africa and is famous for its beautiful gardens. The property is a working farm, a luxury hotel, and a collection of lifestyle and farm shops. The design of Babylonstoren emulates the classic Cape Dutch style, with whitewashed walls, tiled floors, pale wood, and crisp linens. The rooms are bright and spacious, and some even come with private villas complete with their own pool and kitchen. Babylonstoren offers a whole experience, with several restaurants serving delicious cuisine made from ingredients sourced from the farm and gardens. Guests can also enjoy a tour and tasting of the estate’s wines and explore the farm shop to pick up gourmet treats. Babylonstoren provides an authentic and unique experience in the Cape Winelands.
Monument House is the newest luxury hotel in the Cape Winelands and is a design-lover’s dream. Built by husband and wife team Wendy and Nishan, Monument House pays homage to Cape Dutch architecture with a touch of Versailles opulence. The interior design, done by Wendy, an internationally acclaimed interior designer, is stunning and features unique features such as 3D-printed Christian Lacroix wallpaper. Each of the five individually designed bedrooms is named after a word from the Welsh language, chosen to evoke a feeling of home and tranquility. The hotel is surrounded by four acres of beautiful gardens, laid out in a modernist Cape Dutch style and filled with indigenous plants. Sustainability is key at Monument House, with the hotel using solar power for most of its energy needs and having its own borehole for water. While Monument House doesn’t have an in-house restaurant, guests have the option of creating their own breakfast with fresh local ingredients or dining at one of the many excellent restaurants in Franschhoek. Monument House offers a unique and tranquil experience in the Cape Winelands.
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Delaire Graff is a luxury wine estate and hotel located in Stellenbosch, known for its exceptional design and beautiful surroundings. As part of the exclusive Relais and Chateaux collection, Delaire Graff offers complete exclusivity and intimacy in each of its rooms. The property is decorated with pieces of art and sculpture from Laurence Graff’s personal collection, adding a touch of luxury to the already stunning surroundings. Guests can enjoy world-class cuisine at Delaire Graff, with two exceptional restaurants offering a variety of dishes paired with exquisite wines. The property also has boutiques where guests can shop for luxury clothing, homewares, and accessories. Sustainability is important at Delaire Graff, and the hotel funds a foundation that supports local children and communities in South Africa. Delaire Graff offers luxury experiences with heart in the Cape Winelands.
Mont Rochelle, part of the Virgin Limited Edition collection, is another fantastic luxury hotel in the Franschhoek Valley. Sitting on a 39-hectare estate at the foot of the Klein Dassenberg Mountain Range, Mont Rochelle offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and gardens. The 26 bright and airy bedrooms are designed with a clean and stylish aesthetic and offer views of the gardens or mountains. The hotel also has a four-bedroom villa, The Manor House, which can be booked for exclusive use. Mont Rochelle is known for its exceptional restaurants, serving delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients paired with excellent wines. The hotel also produces its own wine, and guests can enjoy tours and tastings during their stay. Mont Rochelle is a haven of peace and tranquility and is the perfect addition to any luxury holiday in the Cape Winelands.
In conclusion, the Cape Winelands in South Africa is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and luxury travelers. With stunning scenery, charming towns, and exceptional wine, there is something for everyone in this beautiful region. Whether you choose to stay at La Residence, Babylonstoren, Monument House, Delaire Graff, or Mont Rochelle, you can be sure to enjoy a truly luxurious experience in the Cape Winelands.
