Award-winning wine and grandeur experiences go hand in hand, and there are a great number of luxury hotels on the Cape Wine Route offering more than you could have ever imagined. The Cape Winelands boast anything and everything from scenic beauty, award-winning restaurants, top wineries to art galleries, and rich heritage dating back to the 1600s.
Top 12 Luxury Hotels on the Cape Wine Route
In no specific order, here are are our picks of the best luxury hotels on the Cape Wine Route.
The Robertson Small Hotel
In the heart of the valley of wine and roses lies the Robertson Small Hotel. A luxurious and intimate boutique hotel in the countryside filled with art, design, soul, and a whole lot of history. One of the biggest highlights of the Robertson Small Hotel is without a doubt the food experiences at The Small Restaurant where locally sourced seasonal produce takes centre stage for the creation of all the sophisticated and strictly seasonal Italian-inspired dishes. You could explore the rest of the town of Robertson, and its surrounding wine farms, or stay put at the hotel for a G&T from the EM Bar, or a treatment from The Wellness Room.
Franschhoek Country House & Villas
Franschhoek Country House & Villas, with its restored manor house and former perfumery dating back to the late 1800s, is a lavish five-star boutique hotel where contemporary culinary wonders and old-world charm meet face to face. Surrounded by enchanting vineyards and with its own rambling gardens, the rooms and suites are the epitome of comfort and an invitation to relax and unwind. The appeal of Franschhoek Country House & Villas lies in the location with its quintessential country-style atmosphere, and of course the onsite award-winning Monneaux restaurant.
Babylonstoren
Babylonstoren is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, situated a short drive from Franschhoek, and it is one of the top luxury hotels on the Cape Wine Route. Renowned for its expansive landscape of botanical diversity and dotted with gardens, walking paths, restaurants, unique accommodation and vineyards, Babylonstoren offers an authentic farm stay experience. Guests have full access to the gardens at all times, and other activities are included such as a guided garden tour and farm walk (plus a morning harvest with gardeners), guided fishing, bicycles to explore the grounds, rowing at the dam, cellar tour and wine tasting, baking bread with the bakers and Babylonstoren workshops.
Le Quartier Français
Le Quartier Français is a Franschhoek stalwart and an unforgettable taste experience destination brimming with elegance and charm for discerning travelers. Expect French-style undertones throughout the property, with rooms, suites (two with its own private pool), and a villa. This exclusive boutique hotel, situated in the quaint village’s main street with its buzzing atmosphere between galleries and boutique stores, boasts striking art collections, exquisite gardens and its own on-site restaurants. There is Protégé, a casual-style eatery, and Le Colombe, an award-winning fine-dining restaurant. Adjacent to Le Quartier Français, there is also a contemporary art gallery, Everard Read, and a day spa where blissful pampering sessions await.
Spier Hotel
Spier Wine Farm can be traced back all the way to 1692 and stemming from its fascinating history, winemaking heritage, a passion for ethical farming, bucolic charm and the unique experiences on offer, this four-star hotel brings a full farm-style experience to the table. Comfort leads the way in the rooms, and with unique artistic touches and the surrounding vineyards, gardens and historic farm buildings, an intimate and relaxed atmosphere can be expected. Numerous activities are on offer at Spier Wine Farm; there is a Segway Tour, eagle encounters, self-guided walks, a craft market, shop and the Spier Artisan Studio where artisans collaborate with visual artists. When it comes to dining, a farm-to-table experience is implemented, whether you want to have a picnic, eat at the Hotel Restaurant, Vadas Smokehouse, and Bakery or at the Farm Cafe.
Franschhoek Boutique Hotel
With the towering Cape Fold Mountains as a backdrop, Franschhoek Boutique Hotel is situated in town within walking distance from all the restaurants, art galleries, boutique stores as well as the departure point of the must-do bucket list item, the Franschhoek Wine Tram. Recognized for its unique touches and individually decorated rooms exuding global and local influences, the Franschhoek Boutique Hotel is ideal for a weekend break or a romantic getaway.
Mont Rochelle Hotel & Vineyard
Month Rochelle, a five-star Franschhoek-based hotel and vineyard owned by Sir Richard Branson, is perched on a mountain with unsurpassed views. Going the extra mile is synonymous with Mont Rochelle, and it is rightfully earning its spot when talking about the top luxury hotels on the Cape Wine Route. Elegance can be expected under and throughout. The rooms are named after different wines while the Manor House with its four bedrooms is great for families or groups traveling together. There are two restaurants, MIKO the flagship restaurant and the Country Kitchen, a small spa boasting an eco-friendly range of products, a heated outdoor swimming pool, and a gym. Guests are invited to go wine tasting and picnic among the vineyards.
Steenberg Hotel & Spa
In the lush Constantia Valley where the oldest registered wine farm of the Cape has stood the test of time, Steenberg Hotel & Spa combines 17th century traditions and elegance with a modern touch. Resting in the Constantiaberg amphitheater of the Table Mountain range, postcard-perfect views, a sense of calm and wines evoking the region’s unique terroir are guaranteed — while an 18-hole championship golf course, a spa and two restaurants, Tryn and Bistro Sixteen82 — add to the experience. The accommodation speaks in tones of understated luxury with individually decorated bedrooms and suites, and the city of Cape Town is just a short drive away.
Delaire Graff Lodges & Spa
Perched on the slopes of a mountain outside of Stellenbosch, Delaire Graff Lodges & Spa is situated in a prime location boasting sweeping views, seclusion, gardens designed by the renowned Keith Kristen and unique art collections from acclaimed African artists. Each lodge features its own private pool with unrivaled excellence and refined elegance. The estate’s vineyard entices with world-class wine while the two restaurants, Delair Graff where chefs elevate dining to an art form, and Indochine with its pan-Asian flavors, take you on a delectable journey of experience. To bask even further in the tranquility, there is a spa offering holistic treatments for mind, body and soul.
Boschendal
The serene environment of Boschendal, an award-winning wine farm in the Franschhoek region, invites visitors to savour the best of farm living and reconnect with nature in the countryside. The accommodation is varied, with cottages and villas scattered across the property, exuding sophisticated simplicity rooted in history while being surrounded by a diverse natural environment. The quaint town of Franschhoek is just a short drive away, and Boschendal’s activities – such as horse riding through the vineyards, mountain biking, and a farm or cellar tour – and its own multiple restaurants, invite you to linger around for longer, for a taste of something real. Just like nature intended.
Bosjes
Bosjes, in the wine-rich Breede Valley outside the town of Worcester, is a family-friendly working farm steeped in exceptional natural beauty, comfort and impressive architectural features. The old barn, now converted into a guest house, is intimate with only five luxury suites reflecting contemporary lines, natural accents and brass details. Panoramic mountain views abound, the gardens at Bosjes form part of the charm and water elements, diverse vegetation and an elevated labyrinth invite visitors on a reflective stroll in the quiet and serene environment. Work up an appetite while hiking, game-or bird watching and indulge the flavors of Bosjes Kombuis, a bistro-style restaurant, perfectly paired with a Bosjes wine.
Asara
Last, but definitely not least, of our top 12 Luxury Hotels on the Cape Wine Route suggestions, is the award-winning Asara Wine Estate & Hotel which dates back to 1691. Situated a short drive outside of Stellenbosch, spectacular views over the vineyards, the dramatic mountains and the property’s lush gardens contribute to the five-star experience. Elegantly appointed rooms and suites radiate serenity and elegant modern decor, and Asara Wine Estate & Hotel boasts three restaurants. There is the seasonal Mise en Place Restaurant, the casual Sansibar Bistro with more than 500 local and imported gins and a deli that tempts the taste buds with cakes, macaroons and more. The balance and harmony of nature can be found in all of Asara’s wines, and a wine tasting should not be missed.Still have trouble deciding which of the luxury hotels on the Cape Wine Route is a perfect fit for you? Get in touch, we can help you to plan the ultimate getaway.
