For a change of scenery and a break from it all, these local spots are close enough for comfort…
The Telegraph UK recently ranked Cape Town as the third Greatest City on Earth; in our opinion, it’s the greatest. In fact, the entire province is pretty spectacular, offering topographical diversity that veers from towering mountains and plunging valleys to dramatic coastlines and magnificent fynbos-dotted landscapes.
Where better to experience the Cape’s peerless majesty than from a stunning bolthole? We’ve rounded up some of our favourite places to stay – from Winelands charmers to Garden Route jewels and wilderness escapes – whose fabulous deals mean you needn’t hop on a plane to experience a postcard-worthy holiday.
Do you know of any properties offering great deals? We and our readers would love to know about them. Email us: info@superboxtravel.com
Abalone Hotel
Where Paternoster
The special Stay longer, pay up to 45% less
Valid until 31 August 2022
The details Your two- or three-night stay (two adults per room) includes a relaxing 90-minute couples spa package, use of the heated pool and sauna, and two glasses of bubbly. The special is valid for South African residents only.
Cost R3 499 for two nights
R4 399 for three nights
About On dunes overlooking the bay, this charming boutique hotel exudes seaside appeal. With a path leading down to the beach, the light and airy rooms are set around the hotel courtyard, where you can relax in the swimming pool and jacuzzi after meandering beach walks. Tranquil pampering with the couples hydrotherapy spa package releases tension, after which a glass of wine by the roaring fireplace and dinner at the Blues bistro is the seal on a cosy winter evening. And it’s the ideal base for scenic drives to make the most of the spectacular West Coast flower season.
Child friendly? Yes, in selected rooms
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Boschendal
Where Franschhoek
The special The Winter Special
Valid until 1 August 2022
The details Enjoy breakfast, a complimentary farm tour, unlimited access to the farm and mountain trails, and a morning session at The Treehouse for children (must be pre-booked).
Cost From R1 815 per cottage
About With its centuries-old heritage and picturesque setting, Boschendal ticks all the boxes for a wonderful Winelands escape: a welcoming Werf where night markets, picnics and other activities are held, a beautifully stocked farm shop, outdoor activities such as mountain-biking and horse-riding, and a kids’ club that would give Club Med a run for its money. With a diverse range of stylish accommodation, you can have an authentic country holiday.
Good to know Boschendal is also running a South African residents special until September 2022 in the Werf Garden Suites, Cottage 1685 and the six-bedroom Mountain Villa from R2 870 per cottage.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes, Trout Cottage
Wifi? Yes
Brookdale Manor
Where Paarl Winelands
The special Stay three nights, pay for two SA residents’ special
Valid until 30 September 2022
The details The offer includes breakfast, select beverages and wines.
Cost From R3 920 per room per night
About The approach to Brookdale is a car-stopping moment but it’s virtually impossible to capture the grandeur of the setting: an expanse of green vineyards pooled around a white gabled homestead, dwarfed by the jagged peaks of the Drakenstein mountains.
With several dining areas, a choice of lounges and a library, Brookdale offers top-end hosted luxury for a group of up to 12 adults and two children, but can also be booked on an individual basis. The management couple provide exceptional, five-star service; and with executive chef Gary Coetzee in the kitchen you won’t have a better meal in any of the fine-dining restaurants nearby.
Good to know The entire house can also be booked R23 600 a night for up to 12 adults and two children under the age of 12 on an exclusive-use basis.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Erinvale Estate
Where Somerset West
The special Taste and Trails
Valid until 31 October 2022
The details Book a minimum two-night stay and receive free access to Lourensford’s mountain-biking trails, complimentary babysitting services, a room upgrade (subject to availability) and a complimentary wine tasting.
Cost R3 500 per room per night
About A beautifully peaceful escape in this tucked-away corner of Somerset West, Erinvale Estate shares its history with neighbouring Vergelegen, Lourensford and Morgenster wine estates. The luxurious 56-room hotel and spa adjoins the Gary Player-designed Erinvale Golf Course and is within walking distance of the three neighbouring wine estates, offering a wide choice of outdoor activities and culinary pursuits.
Good to know In addition to the Taste and Trails special, Erinvale is offering a three-night Indulge your Senses package that includes breakfast, a seven-course dinner at Stefan’s and three Heart of the Helderberg tastings (guests’ choice).
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Grootbos Secret Season
Where Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, Gansbaai
The special Secret Season
Valid until 31 August 2022
The details Enjoy a stay in a freestanding luxury suite (at either Garden or Forest Lodge), 50% off spa treatments, a complimentary bottle of Creation Merlot, breakfast, a three-course lunch and five-course dinner and transport to and from all activities offered in the reserve. The special is valid for South African residents only.
Cost From R4 950 per person per night sharing
About The months between May and August are known as Secret Season at Grootbos: a special time of year when southern right whales return to Walker Bay and the fields are awash in a magical blanket of colour as Erica irregularis starts to bloom. Add to this luxury accommodation, world-class service and hospitality, and an array of immersive nature-based experiences, and you have the makings of a truly otherworldly escape where real-life magic happens…
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
The Homestead at Hazendal
Where Stellenbosch
The special Homestead Winter Warmer
Valid until 31 July 2022
The details Enjoy a two-night stay that includes breakfast, a 24-hour dedicated butler service, curated art tours by the Marvol Gallery, complimentary access to Wonderdal (children 5 – 13 years), access to Kleine Hazen putting park and wine-tasting in the Wine Lounge. The Homestead accommodates up to 10 adults and two children in five luxurious suites.
Please note The luxurious five-bedroom homestead sleeps 10 adults and 2 children and is available on an exclusive-use base only.
Cost From R27 500 per night for 10 adults + 2 children
About The rolling meadows of the Stellenbosch Winelands form the backdrop to this elegant Cape Dutch homestead, whose current owners renovated and restored it to serve as a luxurious getaway. The historical architecture evokes a bygone era and offers a grand and gracious setting from which to enjoy the tranquillity of the countryside, as well as the numerous attractions on offer at Hazendal Wine Estate.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Head Over Hills
Where Knysna
The special Stay Longer special
Valid until September 2022
The details Stay for three nights, pay for two from Thursday to Monday; or stay for five nights, pay for four (valid in all rooms except the Oyster room).
Cost From R4 600 per room per night
About This cliffside boutique hotel on the edge of The Heads offers some of the best views from its infinity pool that seems to drift off into, well, infinity. The outlook is equally stunning from the balcony decks of each of the eight rooms. Warm service, thoughtful additions (including a walk-in wine cellar) and comfortable lodgings enhance the setting.
Good to know There is also a Family Get-Together special (exclusive use of the house) – valid until September 2022.
Child friendly? Yes, 12 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Old Foundry Hotel by Ideas Cartel
Where Green Point
The special 10% discount for Inside Guide readers
Valid until 1 September 2022
The details The rate includes accommodation (with the option of including breakfast).
Cost From R1 650 per room per night
About One look at the slick, up-to-the-minute interiors and carefully considered array of facilities at this hot innercity hotel, it’s hard to believe it was once a factory dating back to 1876. An eclectic mix of old-world and modern style, this flagship property of Ideas Cartel is home to 24 beautifully dressed rooms, a gym, restaurant, co-working spaces and even a golf simulator. For a buzzy city break, its central location is hard to beat.
Good to know The 10% discount is also valid at sister hotel, Cartel House on Loop Street – where Old Foundry guests also have access to its harvest table brunch and co-working space.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes
Kagga Kamma
Where Koue Bokkeveld
The special 15% off all stays
Valid until 31 October 2022
The details Whether you choose the bed-and-breakfast option; dinner-bed-and-breakfast, or you opt for full-board, this 15% discount applies to Cave and Hut Suites only, both of which sleep two adults. (The Hut Suites can accommodate a maximum of two children under 12 years, too). Your stay also includes refreshments and a rock-art souvenir upon arrival, and sherry and turndown chocolates for guests staying more than one night.
Guests on a two-night full-board package will receive a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine with dinner, and a complimentary 10-minute hand or foot massage.
Cost Bed and breakfast: R2 270 per person per night, high season
Dinner, bed + breakfast: R2 541 per person per night, high season
Full board: R3 720 per person per night, high season
About An almost four-hour drive from Cape Town lies Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve – a slice of untouched wilderness in the heart of the Cederberg, host to a slew of unique accommodation offerings made for nature lovers. Kagga Kamma has a restaurant, bar, swimming pool and spa, as well as a slew of hiking, mountain-biking and 4×4 trails in the surrounding nature reserve. You might also like to fill your days with a nature drive, sundowner tour, quad-biking, stargazing, a reptile talk (presented by qualified snake handlers), or a tour of ancient San rock-art sites, with paintings dating back 6 000 years.
Child friendly? Yes, in Hut Suites only
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, in the Restaurant and Bar
Kinghorn Gardens
Where Noordhoek, Cape Town
The special Winter Special
Valid until 30 September 2022
The details Enjoy a discount of 30% per person, or book for three nights, and pay for two.
Cost R7 350 per couple sharing
About This beautiful home with an extraordinary garden was conceived and designed by owner Andreas Kinghorn, an aesthete to the nth degree. Home to just two bedrooms, the boutique self-catering home is surrounded by a hectare of landscaped greenery brimming with water features, a Koi fish dam, sculptures and other delightful discoveries. Modern amenities and carefully considered furnishings are around every corner, ensuring a sumptuous schlep-free stay. The nearby Noordhoek Farm Village is brimming with cafés, shops and restaurants, with a slew of beautiful beaches only a short drive away.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
La Chataigne
Where Franschhoek
The special 10% – 30% off (depending on day of the week)
Valid until 30 September 2022
The details This charming wine-farm property is offering 10% off weekend stays, 20% off midweek stays and 30% off stays of four nights or more in all its cottages. Children 0 – 12 years stay for free.
Cost From R 1 890 per night for a two-bedroom riverside cottage
R2 380 per night for one-bedroom cottages
About This boutique wine and fruit farm is home to five stylishly renovated self-catering cottages, originally workers’ quarters and stables. They are spread out from one another, ensuring a discreet and peaceful escape – two alongside the river, one vineyard cottage and two mountain-view cottages. All have cosy indoor fireplaces. Cool off at the pool in the orchard, stroll along the river, play boules or explore all that the Franschhoek Valley offers on your doorstep.
Child friendly? Yes, in certain cottages
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
La Petite Ferme
Where Franschhoek
The special Winter Escape (50% reduced rates for SA residents)
Valid until 30 September 2022
The details The special includes a luxury stay in a Vineyard or Manor House suite, a full English breakfast and a bowl of fresh fruit on arrival. It does not include VAT and the 1% tourism levy.
Cost From R4 280 per vineyard suite per night
From R2 950 per manor suite per night
Children 2 – 12 years pay 20% of room rate
About Perched on a mountainside, with arguably the best views of the Franschhoek Valley, this intimate boutique hotel is loved for its vineyard-drenched lawns where many an afternoon is spent sipping wines and soaking up the vistas. Home to four suites in the gracious manor house, and five sophisticated vineyard suites (each with their own patios and private plunge pools), the hotel also has a homely restaurant, wine-tasting room and cellar, communal pool and a fleet of bikes for exploring.
Child friendly Yes, in selected suites
Pet friendly No
Wifi? Yes
Lanzerac
Where Stellenbosch
The special Inside Guide “Pay for two nights; stay for three” reader discount.
Valid until 30 September 2022 (subject to availability)
The details This decadent special includes daily breakfast, a wine-tasting and cellar tour, use of the spa’s hydro facilities and a R500 voucher to spend on food and beverages on the estate.
Cost From R6 850 per night for two guests (depending on season)
About On a legendary 330-year-old wine farm, this plush and elegant hotel is filled with period grandeur and rich Cape heritage. Every room has a patio looking out over the vineyards and Jonkershoek Valley; the suites have their own private pools, too. There is much to keep you occupied, including a world-class, vista-drenched day spa. Plus foodies will love the variety of options on site (from a grand dining room to courtyard tables under oaks), a pub and winery with chocolate pairings.
Child friendly? Yes (extra bed/cot available on request)
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Nima Lodge
Where Wilderness
The special 20% discount for Inside Guide readers
Valid until November 2022
The details In addition to accommodation in a self-catering chalet, your stay includes complimentary tea, coffee and toiletries. A continental breakfast can also be ordered and delivered to your room (R350 for two people).
Cost From R1 360 per night
About Overlooking hills and valleys towards the distant Outeniqua mountains, Nima Lodge lodge is home to three spacious and fully equipped chalets, one large luxury cabin with private pool and three brand-new pods, opening on 1 July 2022.
The style and décor is contemporary, with accents of warmth and comfort, especially in the lapa, where breakfast is served each morning, and yoga classes are offered. The sun-drenched pool deck hints at Nima’s name (“sun” in Tibetan). At Nima, you’ll feel like you’re a world apart.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
Where Montagu
The special SA residents’ discount
Valid until 30 September 2022
The details Stay at either Gondwana Family Lodge or Dwyka Tented Lodge. The rate includes all meals, twice-daily nature drives, guided walks and non-alcoholic beverages, plus the Kids on Safari programme and complimentary child-minding at Gondwana. Minimum two-night stay.
Cost R 3 750 per person sharing per night
About Tucked in the majestic Warmwaterberg Mountains in the heart of the Klein Karoo, Sanbona is the Western Cape’s answer to an exclusive and authentic safari experience. Dwyka Lodge offers romantic, luxury glamping for couples (the tented suites have jacuzzis on the deck), while Gondwana Lodge is perfect for families and has a large child-friendly swimming pool. Both lodges offer magnificent views of the endless plains, boma dinners under the stars and a true escape into nature.
Child friendly? Yes, at Gondwana Family Lodge
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Spier Hotel
Where Stellenbosch
The special Winter Winelands Getaway
Valid until 31 August 2022
The details 15% off stays booked between Sunday and Thursday, 15% on two-night weekend stays, and 20% off stays of three nights or more. The special includes a glass of wine on arrival, a complimentary bottle of wine in your room, a wine-tasting voucher, and a spice pack and recipe kit for you to make the perfect pot of glühwein at home.
Cost From R1 828 per room per night
About This family-friendly hotel on Spier Wine Farm is set alongside the tranquil Eerste River and designed in a charming “village” style, with each block of rooms encircling a garden and swimming pool. There’s lots to do on the estate, with two restaurants, a deli, picnic spots, a craft market, gallery, bird-of-prey sanctuary, spa, food garden, Segway vineyard tours and, of course, a wine-tasting room with magnificent views over the Helderberg mountains.
Good to know By choosing to stay at Spier, you’re supporting its many Growing for Good initiatives, aimed at supporting the health of the planet and local livelihoods.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
St James Homestead
Where Cape Town
The special Exclusive-use villa discounts for Inside Guide readers
Valid until 30 November 2022
The details Enjoy a seaside stay in this spacious 12-sleeper villa, home to a swimming pool, outdoor braai deck and garden, conservatory lounge and secure off-street parking. Minimum stays of two nights.
Cost R9 500, weekdays (exclusive-use villa, sleeps 12)
R11 500 weekends, May – September (exclusive-use villa, sleeps 12)
R10 000 weekdays, October – November (exclusive-use villa, sleeps 12)
R12 000 weekends, October – November (exclusive-use villa, sleeps 12)
About The Homestead’s elegant Cape Dutch façade is in keeping with the charming suburb of St James squeezed between the rocky shore and steep mountainside. The six sea-facing en-suite bedrooms are a fusion of old-fashioned seaside charm and vibrant décor fitted with every modern convenience. The house features a tiered back garden with a fenced pool and viewing deck, ample front-of-house parking, a well-equipped kitchen and laundry, an open-plan conservatory lounge and dining area, a 12-seater outdoor dining area, upstairs sitting room with an open fireplace and a balcony with exceptional views across False Bay.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Steenberg
Where Tokai
The special Five Lives Winter Package for SA residents
Valid until 31 August 2022
The details Enjoy up to five different experiences on Steenberg Farm, including a 45-minute back, neck and shoulder massage for two guests, breakfast at Tryn or Bistro Sixteen82 or in the comfort of your room, dinner for two at one of the restaurants, a classic wine tasting plus a bottle of Steenberg Five Lives Red Blend on arrival, and use of mountain bikes to explore the 300-hectare farm.
Please note South African ID/passport is required for all guests when booking.
Cost From R5 880 per couple per night
About In the Constantia Valley, overlooking False Bay, Steenberg Hotel is a luxurious five-star property situated on the oldest farm in the Constantia Winelands, founded in 1682. Home to a championship golf course, two acclaimed restaurants, a contemporary tasting room and a serene spa, all set on immaculate grounds with spectacular vineyard and mountain vistas, it’s a destination in its own right.
The hotel’s 24 beautifully decorated rooms vary in size and splendour (from classic rooms to a three-bedroom villa), with everything you need for a blissful home-from-home escape.
Child friendly? Yes, under-12s stay free in select rooms
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Taj Cape Town
Where Cape Town
The special Urban Getaway Special
Valid until 30 September 2022
The details This deal applies to luxury mountain-facing rooms and includes a breakfast buffet at The Mint Restaurant & Terrace (think fruit and yoghurts, bread and pastries, and everything in between!). The offer also includes a R250 drinks voucher to be enjoyed in the hotel’s Lobby Lounge and Bar, a bottle of wine, plus a 30% discount on any treatment at the award-winning Jiva Spa.
Cost R3 000 per couple per night
About Just across from the Company’s Garden, with the innercity’s hotspots and cultural attractions on its doorstep, Taj Cape Town is perfectly positioned to offer guests a glimpse into the heart and history of the Mother City, before resting their heads in five-star comfort.
Its heritage architecture, Golden Age-inspired interiors, sky-high views of the city centre and Table Mountain – not to mention attentive service, two superb restaurants and a decadent spa – make it the perfect location for a slick city escape.
Child friendly? Yes, for selected suites
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
The Cellars-
Where Constantia
The special Stay3Pay2 offer
Valid until 31 August 2022
The details Stay three nights, pay for two during winter. It includes a full English breakfast, complimentary minibar and a bottle of wine on arrival.
Cost From R3 000 per room per night (subject to availability and room type)
About This elegant property is a veritable oasis. With an excellent restaurant, a chic martini bar, a sun-splashed terrace and pool, a sumptuous spa and 3.6 hectares of magical gardens, you’ll never want to leave…
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes
The Marine
Where Hermanus
The special Royal Breakaway Special
Valid until 31 August 2022
The details A one-night stay for two adults in a Premier Suite, Double Room or a Luxury Double Room (with sea view). It includes fresh fruit and bottle of wine on arrival, full English breakfast in The Pavilion, a R500 credit for Pavilion restaurant or the spa, and a complimentary minibar.
Cost R5 002 per room per night
About Sun-drenched days, long swims in the sea, cliff-path walks and bounteous seafood platters… stays at The Marine are the stuff of lifelong memories. Offering some of the best whale-watching opportunities in the world thanks to its sea-scraping setting, The Marine is also home to two unique restaurants, a beautifully appointed sea lounge and bar where you can whale-watch to your heart’s content, a world-class spa and a heated saltwater pool.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes
The Old Rectory
Where Plettenberg Bay
The special Reduced rates for SA residents
Valid until 30 June 2022
The details The rate includes a buffet breakfast.
Cost R2 600 per suite per night
About Just a short stroll from the beach, this boutique retreat is built around an 18th-century national monument (the oldest building in Plett). The result? An appealing combination of history and fresh, modern style. The 18 suites are light-filled and airy, with private terraces overlooking the pool area and milkwood-treed gardens. There is also a spa for pampering, and a cosy bar and restaurant on site.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
The Plettenberg
Where Plettenberg Bay
The special Receive a complimentary room upgrade when you book for two or more nights.
Valid until 31 October 2022
The details Your stay also includes golf at the Gary Player-designed Goose Valley Golf Course, a Fresh Wellness Spa treatment valued at R550, wine-tasting and lunch at the Newstead Lund Family Wine Estate, and 30% discount on visits to Monkeyland, Birds of Eden and Jukani. Please quote LIZFAN21 when making your reservation.
Please note The special is valid for South African residents only. South African ID or passport is required for all guests when booking.
Cost From R2 515 per person sharing per night
About Perched on a rocky headland – overlooking a long stretch of unspoilt beach and fynbos-covered mountains – The Plettenberg is a grand five-star escape along the scenic Garden Route, where luxury lodgings, uninterrupted ocean views and superb dining experiences await. (It was ranked No. 5 in South Africa in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2021 Readers’ Choice Awards.)
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes
Tintswalo Atlantic
Where Hout Bay
The special Tintswalo Winter Special
Valid 31 August 2022
The details A stay for two in Luxury Island Suite that includes a bottle of bubbly on arrival, breakfast, sunset canapés and a cocktail of the day, a three-course dinner for two at Chefs Warehouse and a 30-minute massage. The special is valid for South African residents only.
Cost R7 600 per suite per night
R14 900 per suite for two nights
About Perched on a pebble beach at the foot of iconic Chapman’s Peak, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this five-star lodge is a beauty. With just eight gorgeous, island-themed suites a stone’s throw from the sea, a heated swimming pool, a fabulous sundowner deck and an award-winning restaurant, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of place.
Good to know There are special rates at sister property, Tintswalo Boulders, too.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Wolfkop
Where Citrusdal
The special 50% off cottage and glamping stays
Valid until 13 November 2022
The details Enjoy 50% off weekday and selected weekend stays until mid-November at selected campsites on a first-book-first-served basis. (Enquire about which weekends and campsites qualify for the 50% off.) There’s also a 30% off weekend stays in any of the Glamping Villas.
Cost R3 150 per two-night weekday stay (sleeps 6)
R4 400 per two-night weekend stay (sleeps 6)
About Hidden in the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains, overlooking the Olifants River, Wolfkop Private Nature Reserve is one of those immersive getaways where unplugging from the noise of the outside world is a given.
The pre-pitched tents on the banks of the Olifants River are connected to the water via wooden walkways. Each six-sleeper “villa” boasts its own four-poster floating jetty for easy access to the river below. Activities include hiking, bodyboarding down the river, a fly-fishing course, 4×4 trails as well as tea, gin and wine tastings – ideal for couples, groups, families and friends. Hop in a kayak and meander down the river at your own pace. Or if you’re more of a land lubber, there’s a network of scenic horse-riding trails in the area – a wonderful way of exploring the mountains and farmlands in the area.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? No
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