Hout Bay Manor

The main area is a treat for the eye, with its lounge furnished with classic pieces, interesting wall treatments, squashy pink sofas, and a large double-sided fireplace that also warms the reception area. Jars of sweets tempt you from every corner. The elegant on-site restaurant, Pure, serves up good local fare and fresh seafood. Meals are also served in the courtyard or garden. There's a conference centre, a small spa and, outdoors, a long pool with aqua-cushioned loungers and umbrellas.

Sixteen rooms (in single, twin and double configurations) are decorated in individual style, ranging from quirky African tribal to traditional manor-house elegance. Four-poster beds and original South African art add extra local flavour. There's air-conditioning throughout, and all rooms are equipped with wi-fi, satellite TV, and a minibar. Some of the en-suite bathrooms are open-plan and have free-standing tubs; others are separate with shower/bath combinations – all have deliciously fragranced designer toiletries.

There's so much to do in Cape Town that you'll either have to stay for a month, or pick and choose. Nearest are the Constantia vineyards, with their award-wining wines and restaurants (Constantia Nek), Chapman's Peak and Cape Point. Visit the penguins at Boulders Beach, the lively harbour at Kalk Bay, nearby Llandudno for sunbathing, and Kommetjie and Muizenberg for some of the best and most consistent waves on the peninsula. Then head for the city and its iconic mountain.