Franschhoek Country House & Villas

The award-winning Monneaux restaurant at the main farmhouse is the perfect reflection of elegant and cosy country living, both in the decor and the cuisine. In summer, grab a bottle of wine and relax on the outside fountain terrace, shaded by cream cloth and leafy trees, and in winter, retreat inside to the fireplace with a sherry. You also have a choice of two pools in the manicured gardens, and the spa offers indulgent treatments during the day.

There are 14 rooms inside the original manor house, divided into standard, luxury and garden cottages. All are decorated in a classical country style - but most certainly not twee – with an ensuite bathroom (some with free-standing Victorian tubs). Some have a balcony, others a patio terrace. Outside, through a vine archway and down towards the courtyard, are the 12 yellow-tinted villas. All the villas have two private balconies, and inside each are fireplaces, separate lounge areas with squashy armchairs, and white-washed wood furnishings.

Franschhoek is jam-packed with activities to occupy both the outdoor enthusiast, as well as the food and wine connoisseur. Walk into the village to sample some of the restaurants on the pretty streets, or book a taxi and head out to one of the vineyards. If you're feeling active, book a cycle tour or horse ride (with a few wine stops along the way!), or hike in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve. And if you don't even want to leave the hotel, dine in the excellent restaurant, or visit the spa.