Jamala Madikwe

Set in the fashionable Kloof Street area, the Cape Cadogan is a wonderful boutique hotel. The historic, listed building has been decorated with contemporary neutral hues giving a more light and spacious look whilst the elegant fixtures remain true to the origin of the building.

Surrounded by vineyards and gardens and just minutes from the village of Franschhoek is Leeu Estates, a boutique hotel, winery and wellness spa. Set within 68 hectares between the Dassenberg mountains and Franschhoek River, it offers guests the opportunity to enjoy stunning natural beauty in total luxury. Each room is individually styled and upholstered in natural linens giving a relaxed yet sophisticated feel. The luxury en-suite bathrooms have marble floors with underfloor heating and some feature a freestanding bath tub. You’ll enjoy your beautiful surroundings from the moment you wake up, with windows that look out over the gardens and orchard. Located within the Manor House is The Dining Room, where uncomplicated dishes let the locally produced ingredients shine though. In the warmer months, choose to dine al fresco and enjoy soaking up the sun from the garden terrace. For when you want to simply relax and unwind, The Reading Room is an intimate space with a fireplace, opening onto a veranda with views of the gardens, vineyards and Franschhoek Valley. There is plenty of reading material and enough board games to keep you occupied, but if you do fancy engaging in something more active then make a beeline for the gym, pool and spa.

Perched majestically on the headland between two stunning bays, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve spans an impressive 2,500 hectares at the very heart of the world's premier whale-watching destination.

Perched atop a koppie in the wildlife-rich Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is Simbavati Hilltop Lodge, with views across the bush, the Nhlaralumi River and the distant foothills of the Drakensberg mountain range. Timbavati is situated on the western border of the Kruger National Park and with no fences between the reserves, the animals are free to move between them. Eight pavilion-style luxury tents consist of two individual tents, one for the bedroom and one for the bathroom, linked by a passage. A private viewing deck allows you to gaze out across the landscape. When you’re not out on game drives, cool off in the refreshing waters of the infinity pool, or relax in the lounge. A viewing deck is the perfect place to unwind with a sundowner and enjoy your evening meal under the stars.