La Residence

Interiors at La Residence are mind-blowing. We’re talking breathtakingly high ceilings and giant chandeliers, glimmering marble floors adorned with Persian rugs and on the walls, handpicked artwork and ornate hangings. Outside, you’ll have a hard time choosing between the palm-tree lined swimming pool, the Tea House pagoda by the dam or the pretty, terracotta terraces to curl up with a good book. There’s also a plum orchard for a quiet morning stroll or the spa for an afternoon of pampered bliss.

Each of the stunning suites have been individually and very thoughtfully designed and all feature exotic antiques from around the world, enormous 4 poster beds fit for a Parisian princess and pretty outside terraces or balconies. Try the Maharani Suite for a touch of the Orient or the undeniably elegant Armani Suite with its soothing colours and views of the manicured gardens. Bathrooms are a delight (and bigger than most hotel rooms!) with freestanding bath tubs, delicious Charlotte Rhys toiletries and walk-in showers.

Alongside some of the best restaurants and vineyards that the country has to offer, the Winelands has a hidden adventurous streak. Ask La Residence to organise horse-riding, cycling, fishing, quad biking, a round of golf or even a helicopter trip if the mood takes you – and unique to the hotel is a trip around the village in a horse-drawn carriage. But if you want to relax in your private palace with a wine tasting on the terrace and a decadent Pinotage massage (yep, that’s a thing), then you can do just that too.