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Cape Town is known the world-over for its pristine Blue Flag beaches, top-tier restaurants and iconic attractions like Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront. And you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better destination than the Cape Winelands in South Africa. The region has something for every type of traveller, from exploring the wine country on scenic hikes, bike rides and drives to whale watching on the coast.
You’ll be able to enjoy stunning views of majestic mountain ranges and rolling lush vineyards from the comfort of luxury lodges, farmhouse-style cottages and boutique hotels while indulging in award-winning wines at some of the best wineries in South Africa.
From the well-known regions of Franschhoek and Stellenbosch to the lesser-known highlights like the Robertson Wine Valley, we cover our favourite places to stay in the Cape Winelands.
Constantia
Why Visit Constantia?
- Breathtaking views of the Constantia Wine Valley
- Luxurious, historic living in a romantic setting
- 15-minute drive from central Cape Town & its biggest attractions
- Wine tasting on the Constantia Wine Route
- Scenic hiking & walking trails
- Award-winning restaurants & hotels
1. Alphen Boutique Hotel
The historic Cape Dutch building that houses the Alphen dates back 400 years and exudes the casual elegance of a grand country estate. The boutique hotel can be found in the Constantia Wine Valley, an area renowned for its wineries, fine dining and the Green Belt walking trails. Here, you’ll not only explore some of the Cape Winelands historic wine estates but also be a stone’s throw away from iconic Cape Town attractions like Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Point, Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront.
2. The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel
Cellars-Hohenort is the ideal place from which to explore the Constantia Wine Valley and all the attractions Cape Town has to offer. When not out wine tasting on the Constantia Wine Route or hiking up Table Mountain, the understated yet luxurious hotel has plenty to keep you entertained – take a dip in the solar-heated swimming pool, stroll through the award-winning gardens, play a match of tennis or unwind at the Fresh Wellness Spa.
Franschhoek
Why visit Franschhoek?
- The food & wine capital of South Africa
- Outdoor activities, including hiking & mountain biking
- Wine tasting at award-winning wine farms like Boschendal, La Couronne, Grande Provence & Chamonix
- Franschhoek Wine Tram – a unique hop-on hop-off wine-tasting experience
- Golf at Pearl Valley, a Jack Nicklaus-designed course
3. Mont Rochelle Hotel
Perched above the charming village of the French corner and its surrounding vineyards and mountain reserve, Mont Rochelle is famous for its stunning views of the Franschhoek Valley. Guests can enjoy all the comforts of home in an elegant and stylish setting at the hotel. The quiet retreat offers expansive lawns dotted with tranquil spots that are perfect for enjoying a good book with a glass of wine. Those who prefer to be on the go can explore the vineyards and wine estate on foot, horseback or mountain bike.
4. Babylonstoren
Babylonstoren is a simplistic yet elegant homestead that offers modern comforts that belie its more than 300-year history. There is so much to do and experience while staying on the 80-hectare (200-acre) working farm. Days pass quickly when browsing the extensive fruit and vegetable garden, hiking the Babylonstoren Koppie, cycling through the vineyards or canoeing on the farm dam. And, naturally, there’s no better way to while away the time than tasting the finest vintages from the wine farms of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek.
5. Angala Boutique Hotel
Surrounded by lush rolling farmlands, leafy gardens and green lawns, this quaint haven is the ideal place for a tranquil getaway. Everything at Angala was designed to rejuvenate and restore the mind, body and spirit – from the magnificent views of the Simonsberg and Du Toitskloof Mountains to the stylish architecture and décor. Of course, there’s also plenty to keep you entertained throughout your stay, from some of South Africa’s best fine dining restaurants and golfing to in-room spa treatments and hiking trails.
6. La Residence
The private wine and olive estate of Domaine des Anges provides the stunning backdrop for La Residence. The opulent guesthouse nestled among the lush vineyards of the Franschhoek Valley takes inspiration from a traditional French country chateau and offers a stylish stay in the lush vineyards of the Franschhoek Valley. Expect world-famous fine wines, superb gourmet cuisine and unpretentious, warm hospitality as you explore all that this charming little town has to offer.
7. Leeu House
Leeu House manages to be both a comfortable, intimate home away from home and a lavish hotel that promises a stay filled with all the luxuries one expects from a 5-star getaway. The farmhouse-style accommodation is the perfect base from which to explore the Franschhoek Valley. Conveniently located on the village’s vibrant main street, world-class restaurants, galleries and sidewalk cafés are within strolling distance.
8. La Cle Country Lodge
Cape Town’s ‘French Corner’ has become a world-renowned destination for its breathtaking views, world-class culinary offerings and, above all, its famous wines. La Cle offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the Franschhoek experience. Prepare for days filled with relaxing leisure activities and indulging in the finer things in life with dramatic mountain ranges and rolling vineyards as your backdrop.
9. Light House Boutique Suites
Meaning ‘pearl’ in Afrikaans, there are few better words to describe the beautiful historic town of Paarl which is just a stone’s throw from Franschhoek. The laidback atmosphere of the town is perfectly reflected by the casual yet elegant Light House Boutique Suites. You’ll enjoy stylish rooms and want for nothing with every modern convenience – and wine farm – you can dream of at your fingertips.
Stellenbosch
Why visit Stellenbosch?
- South Africa’s second-oldest town
- A wide selection of red and white cultivars is on offer at 130 estates
- Vibrant year-round markets and seasonal festivals
- Award-winning restaurants and wine farms
- Two championship golf courses nearby
- Outdoor activities including hiking and mountain biking
10. The Spier Hotel
Luxury meets history at The Spier Hotel. Dating back to 1692, this charming retreat has been meticulously renovated and restored to preserve the historic Cape Dutch architecture. In addition to staying in a beautiful building steeped in history, guests enjoy awe-inspiring views of the natural surroundings and a range of fun activities that are ideal for family bonding. Take a dip in the swimming pool, stroll around the lush gardens or have a picnic on the perfectly manicured lawns. Other activities include a Segway tour through the vineyards or dining at Spier’s farm-to-table restaurant.
11. Delaire Graff Estate
Delaire Graff sits on the crest of the majestic Helshoogte Mountain Pass overlooking the picturesque Stellenbosch Valley. Guests can expect an exclusive and luxurious getaway in a stylish yet comfortable retreat while enjoying superb wines and relaxing leisure activities like unwinding in the spa or observing the estate’s exquisite art collection.
12. River Manor Boutique Hotel & Spa
Stepping away from wine farms and vineyards, River Manor is tucked away in a peaceful, oak-lined street in the historic town of Stellenbosch. The hotel’s intimate, cottage atmosphere and picturesque surroundings set a romantic tone that’s perfect for couples seeking an amorous getaway. Enjoy strolls along the tree-lined avenues, candle-lit dinners in world-class restaurants and wine tasting tours at some of the country’s most famous vineyards.
13. Majeka House
Majeka House is an attractive option for active travellers wanting to explore the wine routes that run through award-winning wine estates, see historical monuments and hike the mountain trails of the area. When not exploring all that Stellenbosch has to offer, Majeka offers immaculate gardens and beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains, as well as several health and wellness facilities to help you unwind after a day of adventures through Cape Town’s wine country.
14. Silver Forest Boutique Lodge & Spa
Tucked away in a lush forest setting on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountains just a short drive from Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands is Silver Forest. This hidden gem provides discerning travellers with a tranquil haven in South Africa’s wine country. When not out sampling wines from award-winning estates, guests can enjoy a round of golf or unwind in the Thermal Suite and colour therapy room at the on-site spa. And if you plan your trip just right, you can pop to Hermanus to enjoy the seasonal whale watching.
Riebeek Kasteel
Why visit Riebeek Kasteel?
- Lesser-known gem of the Cape Winelands
- Pristine natural beauty
- Laid-back, tranquil atmosphere
- Wine and olive oil tastings
15. Bartholomeus Klip
Nestled at the foot of the Elandskloof Mountains in the Bartholomeus Klip Hermon Private Nature Reserve, this secluded homestead promises an intimate, tranquil getaway. A working wheat and sheep farm, Bartholomeus Klip is a unique offering in the Cape Winelands. While the Victorian homestead is filled with all of the modern comforts you’d expect from a luxury hotel, the activities on offer set this house apart. Guests are invited to venture beyond the rose-filled gardens and ancient oaks for game drives where they have the opportunity to spot plenty of antelope and smaller predators such as lynx and bat-eared foxes.
Robertson
Why visit Robertson?
- Located on Route 62, the longest wine route in the world
- Largest wine estates in South Africa
- Charming small-town atmosphere
- Hiking and mountain biking on Arangieskop, the ‘Kilimanjaro of the Cape’
16. The Robertson Small Hotel
The Robertson Wine Valley might be a less-frequented region, but its picturesque views and elegant wines hold their own against other Cape Winelands towns. The charming Robertson Small Hotel is the ideal place from which to explore this slice of paradise tucked away between the majestic Langeberg and Riviersonderend Mountain ranges. Guests can while the day away with a lazy river cruise down the Breede River, indulge in a gourmet picnic, hike along the many trails found in the region or enjoy a horseback outride.
Hemel-en-Aarde
Why visit Hemel-en-Aarde?
- Located near to Hermanus, South Africa’s whale-watching capital
- Visit Kogelberg Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Golf at top golf courses nearby
- Wine hoppers safari-style tour from cellar to cellar
- Scenic drives & hikes with beautiful views of the fynbos & vineyards
- Enjoy adventure activities like surfing, kayaking & mountain biking
17. Whalesong Lodge
The opulent Whalesong Lodge is set on the rugged De Kelders Cliffs and offers sweeping views of the pristine Walker Bay on the Whale Coast. Although not technically in the Cape Winelands, this idyllic retreat is a stone’s throw away from one of South Africa’s premier wine regions, the Hemel-en-Aarde (Heaven and Earth) Valley. When you’re not sampling excellent cool-climate wines, you can enjoy coastal drives, mountain hikes and tranquil strolls on sandy bays. Be sure not to miss out on the seasonal whale watching in Walker Bay.
18. The Marine Hermanus
The Marine is a gracious Relais & Chateaux property overlooking Walker Bay in Hermanus. The beautiful luxury lodge is set on the top of a cliff for seemingly endless mountain and ocean views. The central location close to a buzz of shops, cafes and restaurants is perfect for exploring South Africa’s whale-watching capital. We haven’t forgotten why you’re here though – much like Whalesong Lodge, The Marine is a short drive away from the much-celebrated Hemel-en-Arde wine region.
