The Cape's main wine-producing region spreads around the small towns of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek. There are other grape-growing areas in South Africa, but none so old and few so beautiful.

Although the wine ranks amongst the world's best, you don't need to be a connoisseur to drop in for a casual tasting. Welcoming cellar-masters may be exceptions in Europe, but here they are still the rule. Pamper yourself – spend a day touring the vineyards; have lunch on one of the estates; or arrange to have a picnic made up for you, to eat beside one of the area's streams or lakes.

Hotels and guest houses in Stellenbosch

Stellenbosch is one of South Africa's oldest towns, an important cultural centre with many art galleries, museums showing national and international art collections, and the country's oldest music school. Places to stay here include:

D'Ouwe Werf

In the heart of Stellenbosch, D'Ouwe Werf is set on one of South Africa's oldest and best-preserved streets, and said to be one of the country's most historic inns. It has a very solid feel, with 32 rooms, six separate apartments, lovely gardens, and cobbled courtyard leading to one of the Cape's best restaurants. (Read more about D'Ouwe Werf…)

Lanzerac Hotel

Lanzerac Hotel is based around a 300-year old wine estate, and one of our favourite hotels in the area. It has 48 individually decorated en-suite guest rooms, each with a private balcony overlooking the vineyard or the hotels manicured gardens, and its huge wine selection is a must for wine aficionados! (Read more about Lanzerac Hotel…)

River Manor

Set in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch, River Manor Guest House consists of two historic buildings, housing 18 comfortable colonial-style rooms. It has a spa and two swimming pools, and is ideal to explore the area's wine states, golf courses and beautiful scenery. (Read more about River Manor…)

Hotels and guest houses in Paarl

The picturesque town of Paarl stands a simple 40-minute drive from Cape Town. It's said to be South Africa's third-oldest town, rich of history, with beautiful natural surroundings. Hotels and guest houses to stay in Paarl include:

Roggeland Country House

Roggeland Country House is a small Cape Dutch homestead just outside Paarl, with high ceilings, old wooden floors, and whitewashed walls. This peaceful, family-run place has 10 guest rooms, and dinner (which is always included) is a real highlight – often lasting all evening! (Read more about Roggeland Country House…)

Mountain Shadows

Just outside Paarl, with the Drakenstein Mountains as a backdrop, Mountain Shadows is set on a working wine and olive farm, and has 13 spacious, tastefully decorated guest rooms. Its restaurant serves great local wines and delicious meals, made from local farm ingredients. (Read more about Mountain Shadows…)

Hotels and guest houses in Franschhoek

In the heart of the Cape's Winelands, amidst towering mountains lies Franschhoek – a small town, mainly influenced by the Huguenots, who settled here more than 300 years ago. It's a place of fine cuisine, first-class wines, and warm hospitality, including:

Le Quartier Français

For those seeking a quiet, exclusive spot amidst verdant vineyards, consider the top-end Le Quartier Francais in Franschhoek. Luxurious rooms and open log fires invite you to relax and unwind, whilst the town itself boasts art galleries, restaurants and coffee shops. (Read more about Le Quartier Français…)

Rusthof Country House

Very close by, in the heart of Franschhoek, Rusthof Country House occupies a restored old Cape Dutch building, and has eight rooms, all different and dotted with antiques. Helpful owners and an open breakfast kitchen make this friendly guest house one of our favourites! (Read more about Rusthof Country House…)

Franschhoek Country House & Villas

Set on the outskirts of Franschhoek Village, this luxurious place has 14 charming en-suite rooms, as well as recently added Villa suites. Its restaurant is well-known, ranking amongst the country's top restaurants, and luxury guest services include pampering spa treatments. (Please call us for details about Franschhoek Country House…)


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