Best hotels in Cape Winelands

A sublime Winelands sanctuary with jaw-dropping interiors and more than a touch of French grandeur, La Residence is an ideal getaway for wine buffs in search of some seclusion (and a whole lot of luxury). Overlooking the spectacular Franschhoek valley with its rows of perfectly tended vines and towering mountains, the chateau-style estate wins every prize for an Instagram-worthy location – there’s even peacocks strutting around the exquisite grounds! And with Franschhoek village, South Africa’s gastronomical capital, only a 5 minute drive away, there’s a host of mouth-watering delights on the doorstep. We dare you to drag yourself away…

Slap bang in the heart of the stunning Cape Winelands, Babylonstoren is one of the oldest working farms in South Africa. With an emphasis on sustainability and organic produce, the owners are bringing an elegant and very contemporary twist to the old adage ‘farm to table’ and boy, do they do it well. From the award-winning restaurant and vineyard to the home-grown spa, every aspect of a stay here is led by the bountiful gardens and hubbub of edible delights within. And then there’s the cottages; white-washed Dutch gables transformed into sanctuaries of graceful simplicity and sophistication, worthy of a visit in themselves.

A hidden gem in the heart of Robertson town (located on South Africa's famous Route 62), the Robertson Small Hotel is fabulous in every sense of the word. Housed in a beautiful Victorian manor house straight from the pages of a storybook, there are various rooms scattered throughout the gardens, the majority of which overlook aquamarine swimming pools. Inside, the decor wonderfully personal and immaculately thought out - think fynbos-inspired linens, whacky artworks by Cape Townian artist Michael Taylor and stunning signature pieces that will make you want to unpack your suitcase and move right in.

Tucked within a boutique estate that's devoted entirely to the art of Cap Classique, this exclusive-use villa puts you in the heart of Franschhoek with your own chef, butler, and very generous pours of some of South Africa's finest bubbles. Award-winning designer Etienne Hanekom has worked his magic on the interiors, and the result is a refined sanctuary that feels every bit as polished as the wines in the cellar. Blending sessions, vineyard picnics, and helicopter flights are all on the cards – though simply sinking into the heated pool with a glass of Blanc de Blancs works too.

Lanzerac Wine Estate was established in 1692 in the gorgeous Jonkershoek Valley, just outside of Stellenbosch. The 155-hectare working farm was one of the Cape's first vineyards and boasts a magnificent example of original Cape Dutch architecture, immediately impressive as you approach through the Oak-lined driveway. While the estate exudes old, colonial charm, it offers an enchanting 5-star experience complete with every modern convenience. Its principal offerings are world-class wines and gourmet food, with luxurious accommodation to match. It is a mid-sized hotel with several restaurants and bars, expansive gardens, three pools, a renowned spa and a conference center.