Hotels in South Africa
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Mont Rochelle
Mont Rochelle is Sir Richard Branson's stunning South African hotel and vineyard, spread over 100 acres of the sun-dappled western cape winelands and less than an hour from Cape Town. Centred around a beautiful thatched roof manor house, the hotel is boutique in style and the vibe is friendly and informal, with ample opportunity to sample the sublime wines and world-class gastronomy of the Franschhoek region. Walking trails wind their way through the scenery and once you’ve finished exploring this beautiful region, you can pamper yourself at the spa which comes complete with a hammam and heated pool. Mont Rochelle’s vineyards grow grape varieties including Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot and Shiraz; daily wine tastings are offered in a variety of locations around the property, and visits can also be arranged to the estate’s 150-year-old wine cellar. The surrounding area can be toured on foot, by bicycle or on the famous Franschhoek Wine Tram. Each of the room categories has a private terrace and is named after a variety of grape - choose between Shiraz Rooms with courtyard or valley views or the spacious Merlot and Cabernet rooms, each with fabulous views of the surrounding valleys. The four Pinotage Suites and two Cap... -
One&Only Cape Town
One&Only Cape Town impresses with a luxurious service to match its dream setting. Located right on the Marina at Victoria & Albert Waterfront, the chic hub of art galleries and boutique shops, it is the perfect base for a Cape Town holiday, with outstanding Table Top Mountain views that have to be seen to be believed. The Island suites in particular are fabulous, adorned with palms and surrounded by water, they are very peaceful, and being so spacious they are also wonderful for families. Typical to One&Only, the hotel features expansive glass doors and windows and private balconies to maximise on the panoramic views of Table Mountain and the surrounding waterways, whilst the African style décor is in keeping with the region and everything has been thought of so that comfort is paramount, with rain showers, marble bathrooms, huge baths and the finest amenities. To really push the boat out, we would recommend the breathtaking Table Mountain Suite, with expansive terraces looking out to the majesty of the mountain. For those looking to relax and unwind in this beautiful location, the first class spa offers an extensive menu from bespoke facials to deeply relaxing massages and body scrubs, all in... -
Ulusaba Rock Lodge
Ulusaba Rock Lodge occupies an enviable position, 800 feet above the wilderness atop a ‘koppie’ once used by Shangaan warriors as a lookout point to spot approaching predators and prey. Spend time here in your very own eerie, high up where the eagles fly. With views stretching as far as the Drakensburg Mountains on the distant horizon you be sure to find serenity. The lodge itself is built of a stunning mixture of thatch and wood, blending seamlessly with its surroundings while at the same time offering extremely stylish accommodation with designs reflecting different African tribal cultures. Some rooms feature Flinstone-like beds, sculpted from huge pieces of wood while others have a more modern flair. The design of the main lodge also incorporates the essential granite on which Ulusaba is built, as does the stunning outdoor ‘rock’ pool. Everywhere at Ulusaba Rock Lodge the view is king. Multiple viewing decks take full advantage of the opportunities to spot wandering game or just relax and drink in the endless landscape. For even further relaxation, pay a visit to the aptly-named Aroma Boma for an indulgent massage, facial or essential grooming session. If you really must exercise, there’s also a gym. Oh, and did we mention... -
Chitwa Chitwa
As soon as you touch down on the remote airstrip at Chitwa Chitwa, your adventure begins. Greeted by your game tracker in his open top Jeep, you will be buzzing with excitement for what you might spot on your short drive to the lodge. Chitwa Chitwa is a stunning 6 suite lodge situated in Sabi Sands in the Kruger National Park. From the moment you arrive you know you have just arrived somewhere special, with its welcoming staff and laid back approach, your safari break isn’t going to just be about spotting game. There are a few lodges that face directly out onto the natural watering hole and we would highly recommend booking one of those, as you can sit on your veranda and spot game as they come to drink during the day. Each suite features its own private plunge pool, and outdoor shower and are all decorated in artefacts collected around South Africa. And when you have some time to relax, there is a swimming pool on the sunset deck, where you can spot game as well as dipping in and out of a good book and spa where you can take a massage after one of your game drives. Then... -
Makanyi
Makanyi Private Game Lodge is located in open, acacia woodlands in the southern Timbavati. Constructed of natural woods, thatch and stone, this contemporary property blends into its picturesque surroundings and makes the most of the extensive views over a dam, which attracts much wildlife. Eight luxury chalets are decorated in light, neutral colours and enjoy private decks on which guests can unwind and immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of the wilderness. Two of the chalets are honeymoon suites and have private plunge pools. Enjoy meals by the pool or on the deck and flavoursome dinners in the boma, under star-studded skies. In between game drives and bush walks, guests can cool off in the central pool, work-out in the gym or even enjoy a rejuvenating massage.... -
Lion Sands Game Reserve
Lion Sands Game Reserve has belonged to the same family for four generations and holds a special place in the game-rich Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Sitting on the banks of the Sabie River Lion Sands is home to four lodges. Each has its own style from the 20-room River Lodge to the highly exclusive Ivory Lodge with just six luxurious suites. River Lodge has four inter-leading suites, which a good option for families with children wanting to be under one roof. The two river suites are located a little further from the main lodge offering more privacy and each with an expensive deck. The 12 Luxury rooms each have a mini-bar and private wooden deck. Each of Tinga Lodge’s nine luxurious suites has an indoor as well as outdoor shower, separate lounge, private plunge pool and deck. Narina Lodge is styled like a luxurious treehouse with nine rooms (each with a private plunge pool) linked by raised wooden walkways. Both lodges welcome children aged 10 years and over. Last but certainly not least, Ivory Lodge is quite stunning even by the high standards of African luxury lodges. Just six glass-fronted suites sit overlooking the river and comprise bedroom, beautiful bathroom with egg-shaped bath,... -
Le Quartier Francais
In a competitive market, Le Quartier Francais enjoys a very special reputation for its sublime cuisine. Under the expert stewardship of award-winning chef Margot Janse it has come to be known as perhaps the premier dining experience in the winelands. This small gem of a hotel has just 21 rooms and suites and is located in the heart of Franschhoek, right on the main street, a perfect spot from which to explore the town or simply to sit outside on the terrace and watch the world go by. The courtyard gardens are very pretty and secluded and also feature a swimming pool. The House Suites and Pool Suite also have their own private pools and can sleep up to two adults and three children so are perfect for families. Remember to make a reservation for The Tasting Room at some point during your stay, the eight-course signature menu is well-worth skipping lunch for.... -
La Residence
La Residence is part of The Royal Portfolio, which also includes Birkenhead Villa in Hermanus and Royal Malewane safari lodge in Thornybush Private Game Reserve. Like its sister properties it has been designed and decorated with great flair in an eclectic yet elegant style. Accommodation is in private suites range from one- to three-bedroom suites. The Vineyard Suites offer a more sociable alternative with open-plan living and dining areas, private terraces and gardens. Located in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley La Residence offers easy access to the many nearby wine farms and of course to Franschhoek itself. Meaning ‘French Corner’ in Dutch, this cute little town does have a wonderfully French feel with cafes spilling onto the streets and rooftops strewn with bougainvillea. And of course there is a myriad of excellent restaurants from which to choose. Back at La Residence, the spa offers a range of pampering treatments or you can simply relax by the pool.... -
La Petite Ferme
Once known as the place to go for lunch in Franschhoek thanks to its absolutely stunning views of the valley from its elevated position, La Petite Ferme is now also a superb small luxury hotel. The Manor House sits next to the restaurant and just four rooms share a pool. Each has a small terrace area from which to enjoy the marvellous views over the merlot vineyards. The Vineyard Suites are located a gentle stroll from the reception area and each has a private plunge pool and overlooks the sauvignon-blanc vineyards to the north-west, providing long, sunny afternoons. La Petite Ferme is still of course a fabulous place to eat for lunch or dinner where guests can enjoy contemporary yet rustic cuisine accompanied by panoramic views. In addition to the main restaurant there is now also an outdoor Tapas Bistro serving small dishes from around the world. Needless to say, the wine here is pretty special too.... -
Babylonstoren
Babylonstoren is absolutely gorgeous but slightly defies description. It’s basically a luxury hotel on a 17th century farm located in 200 private hectares very conveniently between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Suitable for anyone who enjoys country living and appreciates fresh produce. The utterly charming accommodation comprises a series of single-storey farm buildings that have been transformed into stylish guest accommodation. There are 15 one-bedroom suites, three one-bedroom cottages and four two-bedroom cottages. Each cottage has a kitchen attached should guests wish to prepare a light meal for themselves and all the accommodation is characterised by elegant gables, white-washed walls and log-burning stoves. Adjacent to the guest rooms is eight hectares of cultivated fruit and vegetables from which the Babylonstoren kitchens are supplied. There is a choice of dining options at the hotel with daily breakfast being included in the rate. The wonderful Greenhouse is open from 10am until 4pm daily serving light lunches, salads and freshly made breads as well as tea and cake. The flagship restaurant, Babel, is open daily for lunch and serves utterly fresh, seasonal produce from the garden, with the menu changing four times a year. Finally there is the garden spa...
