While the Northern Hemisphere welcomes cooler air and the scents of autumn, dreamy destinations in the South are coming alive, embracing sunnier skies and warmer weather - spring is here and summer is on the horizon!
Whether you want to escape the first signs of cold weather or celebrate the start of hotter seasons, we at Reservest hold one particular holiday destination close to our hearts: the Cape Winelands in South Africa.
Located in the Western Cape, and only a short distance from central Cape Town, the Cape Winelands is a picturesque area that includes South Africa’s most iconic wine-making towns including Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Paarl, among others.
In this article, we take a look at the Cape Winelands and some of the top properties that make it a hotspot for luxury travel.
Springtime in the Cape Winelands
Spring and early summer are the ideal times to visit this beautiful area of South Africa. The weather is mild - warm but not too hot - with average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 25°C. The rainy season is over and flowers are blooming everywhere.
September to early December is the perfect time to take advantage of this country’s great climate before the busy festive season begins and the Christmas bustle takes hold.
What Makes the Cape Winelands a Unique Destination?
Of course, wine lovers are spoilt for choice when visiting the Winelands. From smaller names like Boschendal and Taaibosch to international favourites like Kanonkop, there is a fabulous wine-tasting experience around every corner.
Creative wine pairings are also a beloved pastime that brings local wines to life, and many farms offer vineyard tours that will expand the knowledge of any viticulture connoisseur.
Although a very natural setting, with breathtaking mountain views and scenic hiking and mountain biking trails, the Cape Winelands can be surprisingly cosmopolitan. The quaint towns and wineries are home to some of South Africa’s best restaurants, and the main streets are decorated with boutiques, trendy bars and art galleries.
The area is also home to a diverse array of luxurious accommodation options, from farm cottages to boutique hotels, often set on working wine farms - many of which you can discover and directly book on Reservest.
Explore Ludus Magnus
Exclusive, extraordinary and grand - this is a slice of heaven just outside of Franschhoek. No matter if guests are looking for a family holiday, romantic getaway or tranquil escape from everyday life, Ludus Magnus is the answer.
With mountains in the background, surrounding Shiraz vineyards and access to a freshwater dam (featuring an Olympic-length training pool within it), there is so much to discover. Guests can treat themselves to an outdoor spa treatment, sunbathe by the pool under the South African sky, or enjoy a picnic in the wide, open spaces. The hidden boma is perfect for relaxed sundowners, while the on-site river is great for tubing and kayaking.
Ludus Magnus’s accommodation is synonymous with splendour and elegance. The Manor House can be booked exclusively on Reservest, sleeping 16 guests in eight suites. Each room is individually decorated and features a minibar, air conditioning and an ensuite. A personal butler is on standby to fulfil any request and guests can enjoy gourmet meals prepared by the private chef.
Three luxury villas complete the offering, each with three en-suite bedrooms, a stylish lounge, a fully equipped kitchen and an eight-seater dining table. Ideal for groups of friends or family, guests can experience utter privacy while still enjoying all the estate has to offer.
Wander Around Babylonstoren
Known for its impressive gardens and tranquil atmosphere, Babylonstoren must be seen to be believed. Nestled in the Franschhoek wine valley, this property offers it all from fabulous wine and fascinating tours to manicured spaces to connect with nature.
Inspired by authentic Cape Dutch architecture, Babylonstoren hosts an array of luxury cottages to suit any group size. The respective two-bedroom Garden and Fynbos Cottages offer farm-style stays with hearty fireplaces, elegant gables and a contemporary interior.
For larger groups, there are two Family Houses, each sleeping 10 guests comfortably. Fynbos Family House is set around a central courtyard with a crystal pool, providing a private gathering space for friends and family. Inside, you’ll find marble en-suite bathrooms, a cosy fireplace, five spacious bedrooms and a modern kitchen. The jewel of Babylonstoren, the Manor House features rustic but grand interiors, with a library, comfortable lounge, farmhouse kitchen and five bedrooms. Guests also have access to a private lawn set up with family-friendly games.
Those who visit Babylonstoren are invited to explore this exceptional property, from wandering through the vegetable and fruit gardens to feasting on seasonal dishes at Babel Restaurant.
To learn about the farm, there are various tours covering the production of essential oils, balsamic vinegar and olive oil. A cellar tour and wine tasting are also a must to feel like an inaugurated local. And, to end off the perfect Winelands stay, the Garden Spa offers a variety of expert spa treatments, a hammam and a Hot Spa to unwind.
Leisure at Leeu
Part of the iconic Leeu Collection, Leeu Estates and Leeu House offer an unrivalled Franschhoek escape. Spectacular scenery, unforgettable meals and special memories are guaranteed with a stay in their upmarket cottages and homes.
Each a uniquely decorated abode, Leeu Estates’s three two-bedroom cottages allow guests to experience laid-back luxury that is both comfortable and lavish. The Max House and Protea House provide ample space, with three bedrooms, a living room, a pantry and a fully equipped kitchen. For the full South African experience, the Protea House also features a ‘braai’ or BBQ area and a private pool for those sunny days.
Booked exclusively to sleep 26 guests, Leeu House is a marvel of elegance and history and is just a five-minute drive from Leeu Estates. This expansive home provides everything a guest may need - a 15-metre swimming pool and outdoor dining areas to manicured gardens and modern ensuites.
The masterpiece artworks and sculptures that decorate Leeu Estates alone are enough to draw any guest, but what will keep them coming back time and time again are the dining options. La Petite Colombe is one of South Africa’s best restaurants, serving exquisite dishes in one-of-a-kind ways. Exclusive private dining is also available for intimate celebrations. Fresh food full of flavour can be found at The Dining Table, while The Conservatory creates laid-back meals enjoyed al fresco style.
Of course, a trip to Leeu would not be complete without visiting Leeu Spa by Healing Earth. Focusing on holistic wellness and harnessing the restorative powers of Africa’s rich natural resources, they offer an array of treatments to relax, rejuvenate and restore.
Book Through Reservest
High-end accommodation at the incredible properties mentioned in this article and more can be found on Reservest - a seamless booking engine offering travel experts over 3000 luxury suites and villas. Sign up below to browse exclusive Cape Winelands getaways and book your clients a South African holiday they will never forget.
