Best Secluded Hotels in South Africa

Set on 30 acres of private land, this five-star hotel is flanked by majestic mountains, with a backdrop of Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz vineyards, olive groves and plum orchards. The main building houses 11 suites designed for couples, while five further suites for families and groups are accommodated on the grounds. Each has been individually styled by Liz Biden, incorporating grand mirrors, chandeliers hung from beamed ceilings, exotic antiques and velvet and silk textiles. Meals are also lavish at La Residence, and are either formally served in the Great Hall or alfresco at the Persian Alley. The hotel has an award-winning spa too.

Famed as the property in which Nelson Mandela stayed following his release from prison, this was the place in which he put the finishing touches to his autobiography. It was then a private family home, now it’s a boutique hotel with 10 acres of grounds, an infinity pool and a spa. Even after this change in ownership, it was visited by the South African President – a suite has been named and designed in his honour. The hotel and spa have a strong, stylish modern African theme throughout. Guests receive 24-hour butler service and can dine in two restaurants, both serving authentic local cuisine.

Offering panoramic views of the ocean, 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa is on the edge of Table Mountain National Park, and just next to Oudekraal Beach. Every room has a unique style, and offers a flat screen TV and free WiFi, as well as a balcony and patio. The more premium rooms have an ocean view and a private living room. Parking and breakfast come free for all guests, as does a shuttle to the waterfront, which is 12 km away. Diners can enjoy food at two luxury restaurants, one of which is open 24 hours a day, as well as heading down to the spa, gym, bar, garden, screening room, and outdoor pool.

Found in the Morningside district of the city, Fairlawns (once a manor house) places guests a little further away from the centre, in a leafy, residential area. The 42 suites and large villa make up the guest accommodation, with a homely meets contemporary-grand look. Meanwhile, the spa area has a Balinese theme, with Asian-inspired treatments. Outside, a pool area is flanked by plush loungers and tropical-style foliage. And when it comes to dining, guests can choose from the fine dining Amuse-Bouche, Manor House Bistro, Into the Woods and the Muse Champagne Room, the latter created in association with the French Champagne house, Perrier-Jouët.