Whether you are planning your honeymoon in the Cape Winelands and are looking for a magical, out-of-this-world experience to start your new life together, or you are being terrorised by your children and just need a little time to yourselves, these are what we consider to be the six most romantic places to stay in the Winelands.

The vibrant rooms of La Residence

1. La Residence

If you are after something awe-inspiring, grand and opulent, La Residence could be the perfect place for you and your loved one to stay. It forms part of the Royal Portfolio, together with Birkenhead House in Hermanus and Royal Malewane in a private game reserve that adjoins the Kruger National Park, and all three have been so cleverly created by Liz Biden. From glittering chandeliers and plush upholstery to antique and eclectic furniture and original art, Liz Biden has carefully curated every little detail with the result being a place so special – almost theatrical – that you won’t quite believe your eyes.

From the first glass of wine in your hand to the posy of flowers given to you to celebrate your arrival, every moment of every day, your whims and cares will be taken care of – you will feel like royalty. Gaze at the breath-taking vineyard and mountain views, swim in the rim-flow pool before discovering all that Franschhoek has to offer, or dine in the superb restaurant. Each room is unique – all vibrant with ridiculously romantic bathrooms – or you can choose to stay in one of the villas further out in the property, linked by pathways and serviced by personal butlers. La Residence is the very definition of luxury – is it what you are dreaming of?

The view from La Residence

2. Majeka House

Are you looking to base yourself in Stellenbosch to explore the area on a quick weekend getaway? Perhaps Majeka House is waiting for you. Perfectly situated in the Paradyskloof suburb of Stellenbosch, Majeka House is just a short stroll away from the town and everything that it has to offer.

How about the drink at Majeka House?

The decor is super chic, with touches of flamboyance and a mix of contemporary and traditional styles. There are three pools to choose from, one of which is indoor, and an award-winning spa for all the unwinding you may need. Majeka also boasts an exceptional restaurant, Makaron, which has received numerous awards for its design by James Mudge and Philippe Starck (and the food is excellent too). If privacy and sophistication are your thing, along with a central location, this could be the romantic getaway you are after.

Let’s sleep here: Majeka House

3. Clouds Estate

Utter peace, tranquility and relaxation await you at Clouds Estate Guest Villa and Cottages. Situated on the Helshoogte Pass of Stellenbosch, this place has absolutely magnificent views of the Drakenstein and Simonsberg Mountains. It’s a boutique wine farm with the choice of luxury rooms or semi-detached villas. The finishes are clean, elegant and so calming. Your only problem is going to be how to tear yourself away and explore the area, when you could be floating in the pool and sipping Clouds wine all day. But then, that might not be a problem at all.

How will you be able to leave? Clouds Estate.

4. Delaire Graff

Looking for something seriously impressive? Look no further. Set high up on the Helshoogte Pass above Stellenbosch, Delaire Graff is truly magnificent. The accommodation is state-of-the-art; with two restaurants, two boutiques, a gallery, more incredible art inside and out, a spa, heli-pad and a world-class winery. Leaving no stones unturned, Laurence Graff has made it his mission to dazzle each and every visitor. Choose one of the ten lodges and either switch on the under-floor heating during the winter months or freshen up in your own plunge pool when the weather is steamy. You can dine in your own room (why not, you’ll have your own private butler?) or at one of the two exquisite restaurants. Luxury? Discretion? Absolute calm? Tick tick tick.

How’s this for a view? Delaire.

5. Lanzerac

This 48-room hotel is steeped in history and character. Just a few minutes outside of Stellensbosch, Lanzerac Estate is a 300 year old private working wine estate, set in the Jonkershoek Valley. The exquisite collection of Cape Dutch buildings offer the perfect retreat for any couple looking for a little peace and quiet. The lawns and vineyards are extensive, with superb views from every room, and four pools and numerous restaurants to choose from. This is a great option for those who love hiking and want to set out on foot to enjoy the mountains and panoramic views. If a winter getaway is on the cards, Lanzerac is a good choice – open fireplaces and red wine all whilst being surrounded by antiques and stories of old. Oh, and there’s a spa. Keen? Contact Greatest Africa for more info.

A graceful old lady: Lanzerac

6. La Clé des Montagnes

If you lovebirds are looking for privacy, La Clé des Montagnes (the key to the mountains) is a fantastic option with its four exclusive villas. Set right into the mountain, under oak trees and amongst plum orchards, each villa has been designed by Sarah Ord and offers its own pool and unique furnishings. The villas can sleep between four and eight people and are a short stroll from Franschhoek itself. If you like the idea of relaxing in the privacy of your own, sophisticated home, and like the self-catering option, put La Clé on your list for sure.

La Cle

Inspired to whisk that special someone away for a few nights of bliss? We hope so. Get in touch with us at Greatest Africa and we’d be delighted to help.

About the Author

Richard is the Founding MD of Greatest Africa & Richard Hilton Vineyards. He lives in Somerset West with his wife and two daughters. He is passionate about the Cape, travel, global wines, wine education and sharing his experiences of this beautiful country that he calls home.