Bontebok Self-drive Safari: Day-by-day

For a feel of Cape Town’s past, look no further than Acorn House, now designated a national monument. Built as a private home in 1904, this beautifully restored guesthouse in Cape Dutch style is backed by the often cloud-covered cliffs of Table Mountain.

From immaculately maintained gardens, white walls rise beneath terracotta tiles, and a balcony – accessible from two of the nine bedrooms – shelters a traditional South African “stoep” or veranda. Inside, polished wooden floors and high ceilings are redolent of a grander era, whose heritage is reflected in Persian carpets on the floors, oak and pine furniture and floral-covered chairs and sofas. But with air conditioning, Nespresso coffee and WiFi there’s more than a nod to the 21st century too, resulting in a comfortable hideaway near the restaurants of Kloof Street, yet just ten minutes’ drive from the vibrant Waterfront.

"a wonderful welcome to start the trip"

P and J fromSF

Arrived 29 Aug 2024, 4 nights

The gardens are a further bonus, with that “roses-round-the door” feel that is so welcoming on arrival. Later, just step out onto the manicured lawn for a refreshing dip in the pool, or settle down on a sunlounger with a drink from the honesty bar and take in the aroma of home-grown herbs. The service is attentive; the appeal timeless. See our full report on Acorn House

Situated a short way up the Franschhoek Pass on the Middagkrans Mountain, just 5 minutes by car from the centre of Franschhoek, La Petite Ferme has stunning views over the valley and the surrounding mountains. It’s an elegant guesthouse on a working wine estate, offering a wide choice of rooms, which range from fairly rustic, self-catering cottages to deluxe suites.

"private wine tasting tour - loved it!"

G&EfromHudson

Arrived 7 Nov 2024, 2 nights

La Petite Ferme is in a superb location with some of the best views of any lodge that we feature in the Winelands. It’s a very comfortable place to stay, with a good range of rooms to accommodate most budgets, and offers some great cuisine and wines. See our full report on La Petite Ferme

The De Hoop Opstal, which is often also simply called 'The Opstal', is the central hub of the De Hoop Nature Reserve, not far from the southern tip of South Africa, about four hours' drive from Cape Town. It’s all about the big outdoors here with a unique variety of eco-systems to explore from sand dunes and inter-tidal rock pools to the vlei, indigenous fynbos plants and antelope. The Opstal has a range of rooms and cottages to suit most people.

"The night sky was amazing and we saw whales in the ocean."

Mr P & familyfromDublin

Arrived 7 Jul 2019, 2 nights

The Opstal has a wide variety of accommodation, which is all good value – from self-catering cottages, which appeal to families, to the historic, elegant rooms in the Opstal Manor and other smart suites. It's a great base from which to explore the real attraction: the fantastic De Hoop Reserve; it’s perfect for those who like to head off the beaten track and explore nature. Come for stunning scenery, outstanding birdlife and a spectacular coastline – to drive a little and explore a lot; it's a real gem of a park. See our full report on De Hoop Opstal

The nautically themed Periwinkle Lodge is a stylish guesthouse with a lovely setting overlooking Robberg Beach in Plettenberg Bay. In the last year the lodge has been revamped and refurbished and now has a much fresher look. The main colour scheme of pastel greens, blues and sand colour still remains and together with other beach decorations like shells and wood artifacts gives the lodge that beachy, casual atmosphere.

"Sat overlooking Plat bay having breakfast which was a great view."

Mr M & familyfromLincs

Arrived 30 Mar 2018, 4 nights

Periwinkle is a comfortable and relaxed guesthouse with direct excess to the beach. It is away from the main hustle and bustle of Plettenberg town centre and so if you're looking to be near the beach then this is the place to be. See our full report on Periwinkle Guest Lodge

The Tsitsikamma Coastal National Park is best known for its walking trails through the forests and dramatic coastal scenery which is part of Africa's oldest and largest marine reserve.

"This was a great one night stop"

Mr & Mrs GfromBucks

Arrived 9 Feb 2020, 1 night

See our full report on Storms River Restcamp