One of the very best things we can hope to give our children are good memories that will last a lifetime. In this crazily busy, and fast-paced world, taking time away from the usual routine, putting our iPads away and spending quality moments with the people we love, is truly something to be cherished. South Africa offers all families unforgettable, dream holidays. Here are seven of our favourite family-friendly places to stay.

1. Shamwari Game Reserve, Garden Route

We often recommend families who want to go on safari and see the Big 5 to stay at Shamwari. It offers luxurious, five star accommodation and is just off the Garden Route, an hour north of Port Elizabeth. It is also malaria-free and even offers a ‘kids on safari’ programme. Take a look and get in touch for more information.

Kids on safari at Shamwari

2. The Mount Nelson, Cape Town

For those looking to explore Cape Town with the family, The Mount Nelson is a fantastic place to stay. This graceful, five star, colonial-style hotel, is just a short walk to the historic Company Gardens and vibrant city centre. The hotel is surrounded by lush gardens and offers all sorts of family-friendly acitivites such as cricket matches, face painting, games and swimming. There is even an activity centre  for children between 3 and 12 and a programme of events to keep little people entertained. From the child-size bathrobes and slippers to the milk and cookies at bedtime, families are made to feel totally at home here. Find out more about The Mount Nelson.

Relax by the pool at the Mount Nelson

3. The Alphen Boutique Hotel, Cape Town

In leafy Constantia, you will find the Alphen Boutique Hotel. This a a great place to base yourself if you like the feeling of space – there is plenty of lawn for the kids to run on and the Constantia Greenbelt is only a stone’s throw away. The Belle Restaurant is a cosy place to eat with all the family and Constantia’s vineyards are only a few minutes away. Read on for more info on the Alphen.

Alphen Hotel

4. Spier Hotel, Winelands

In the Cape Winelands you will find Spier – heaven on earth for kids and big families. There is so much to do on this farm and families are really encouraged to explore. Spier is a pioneer in responsible tourism and you can expect inter-leading, family-friendly rooms, a children’s clubhouse, play areas, picnics, bikes to ride, rivers to find, a wonderful weekend market and even the chance to visit ‘Eagle Encounters.’ Find out more about what Spier has to offer.

Jump into the pool at Spier

5. La Cle des Montagnes, Franschhoek

If you are planning a big family celebration or you prefer to have more space, privacy and your own kitchen, then the luxury villas at La Cle Des Montagnes are definitely worth looking into. Under ancient oak trees, these villas have been magnificiently designed and furnished. Each has its own pool and they are in the perfect position to explore the region and its world-famous wine farms. Horse-riding, mountain bike riding and fly-fishing are all within a short distance away. Explore more that La Cle des Montagnes has to offer.

La Cle des Montagnes

6. Le Franschhoek, Franschhoek

A glorious hotel, Le Franschhoek is again a great place to stay if you would like to explore the winelands. For the family, it has a tennis court and swimming pool and plenty of space and it’s also just a few minutes away from all that Franschhoek has to offer. Hop on and off the wine tram and enjoy the region! Find out more about Le Franschhoek.

7. The Oyster Box Hotel, Umhlanga

For those planning to explore Kwa-Zulu Natal, The Oyster Box offers dream accommodation. It is right on the beach, there is a kids club offering all sorts of activities and the food is exceptional, especially the breakfasts. Sublime. Find out more about the Oyster Box.

How about this? The Oyster Box.

Keen to plan your next family getaway? Do get in touch and we will gladly put a family-friendly itinerary together for you. There is so much just waiting to be discovered.