Distinctive Cape Dutch manor houses framed against a beautiful backdrop of mountains – this is the established home of South Africa’s most important vineyards. Although it is possible to make a day trip from Cape Town, to do so would miss out on an opportunity to stay in one of the stylish hotels where you can enjoy outstanding hospitality and soak up the atmosphere of this unique region. The university town of Stellenbosch is the second oldest in South Africa and has established a reputation as a respected academic institution. It is a good starting point for those wishing to explore the local wine-tasting routes around Franschhoek and Paarl. There are many excellent hotels offering outstanding service and high standards of comfort; please don’t hesitate to telephone us to ask for advice on how to make the most of your holiday in this wonderful part of the world.
Speak to a South Africa specialist
Contact our expert team for first-hand advice and a tailor-made quotation.
Sited on the slopes of the lush Paarl Valley, Grande Roche is a gracious, restored 18th century estate on a working wine farm. Reopening in July 2017 after a full refurbishment, the original manor house is one of the most perfect in the Winelands; it dates from 1707 and was awarded National Monument status in 1993.
Short Break
Mont Rochelle, Franschhoek
Winelands, South Africa
Aquired in 2014 by Sir Richard Branson and now fully refurbished, the Mont Rochelle offers a perfect holiday experience by combining three wonderful ingredients; an impressive setting in the hills, superb cuisine and extensive vineyards and gardens that give it a true sense of peace and tranquillity.
Short Break
Leeu Estates, Franschhoek
Winelands, South Africa
The latest offering from Analjit Singh, Leeu Estates provides a relaxing escape just five minutes by complimentary hotel shuttle from central Franschhoek. Set in 68 hectares of vineyards and landscaped gardens, the property is home to the state-of-the-art tasting studio of award-winning Mullineux wines.
Short Break
Grand Dédale, Wellington
Winelands, South Africa
The owners of the award winning working Doolhof wine estate have opened up their restored Cape Dutch manor house as a hidden boutique retreat. ‘Doolhof’ in Afrikaans and ‘Dédale’ in French both mean maze and it is easy to lose yourself in the property, located at the end of a long road of farms, surrounded by three mountain ranges with the Kromme river running through the vineyards.
Short Break
Leeu House, Franschhoek
Winelands, South Africa
In the heart of Franschhoek, this historic guest house has been lovingly refurbished and upgraded by industrialist Amaljit Singh. There are 12 large rooms which offer classic Cape Dutch comfort with plenty of natural light, some with small terraces. The outdoor swimming pool sits in attractive gardens with specially commissioned artwork, a rare find such a short walk from the town’s main attractions.
Short Break
Le Quartier Francais, Franschhoek
Winelands, South Africa
A long-standing central Franschhoek favourite, Le Quartier Francais is now part of the Leeu Collection. The colourful, warm and welcoming ambience has been retained in the 17 freshly decorated bedrooms and cosy private library, all of which overlook the attractive gardens and outdoor swimming pool.
Short Break
The Last Word Franschhoek
Winelands, South Africa
deluxe-boutique
Re-opened in 2014 after extensive renovations, this attractive boutique hotel is in the heart of Franschhoek village. It is a beautiful Cape Huguenot townhouse with just 10 bedrooms. One of the highlights of staying at The Last Word Franschhoek is its warm and friendly atmosphere; the hands-on manager, Conrad Flatow and his team immediately make guests feel at home with their attention to detail.
Short Break
Babylonstoren
Winelands, South Africa
The first vines were planted and Cape Dutch buildings erected on this site in the Drakenstein valley between Franschhoek and Paarl in 1692. Still a working farm of 200 hectares, the majority of the produce used in the acclaimed and imaginative ‘Babel’ restaurant and the adjacent seasonal ‘pop-up’ is grown on site.
Short Break
Franschhoek Country House & Villas
Winelands, South Africa
Dating from 1890, this original country house (formerly a perfumery) is set in manicured gardens, surrounded by wine farms and mountains, and is a short drive from the town of Franschhoek.
Short Break
Oude Werf, Stellenbosch
Winelands, South Africa
superior
Sister hotel of Cape Town’s Vineyard, the Oude Werf is located in the heart of Stellenbosch on the site of the Cape’s first church and is South Africa’s oldest hotel, dating from 1802.
Search
Meet the Team
Learn more about Kirker's team of experts and read our latest destination reviews.
Our expert reservations team regularly travel to a wide range of destinations to explore new cities, visit hotels and to research museums, galleries and restaurants so that we can offer the most up-to-date advice and recommendations.
Newsletter
Join our mailing list to receive the latest updates and travel inspiration.