Best Ultra Luxury Hotels in South Africa

Converted from an Edwardian era mansion, Ellerman House offers a pristine view of the Atlantic Ocean and littoral. It is right by Clifton beach, and only a few kilometres away from both Cape Town city centre and Table Mountain National Park. Every room offers you heated floors, a flat-screen TV and a minibar. The more premium rooms come with a balcony, antique furniture, and an ocean view, as well as a private lounge and dining areas. The villas include a private pool and your own staff. Free to every guest is parking, breakfast and a shuttle, as well as a pantry and cocktails in the evening. The restaurant offers food that comes straight from farm to table. You can also take advantage of the spa, art gallery and outdoor pool.

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.

One & Only is a high-end option for the distinguished traveller. Located on the busy waterfront with views of Table Mountain, this hotel is only a short walk from the Cape Town Diamond Museum. Every room at The One & Only Cape Town has free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and a private balcony, and some also offer kitchens, a fireplace and even a butler. One & Only Cape Town features a famed Japanese restaurant and also includes a pool, spa and fitness centre.

The Silo is an option for those looking for something a little quirky and different, but equally luxurious: converted from an early 20th-century grain elevator, this hotel sits by the harbour with a panoramic mountain view. Each room offers its own unique decor and antique furniture, as well as a balcony, chandelier and free WiFi. Breakfast is free. Guests can enjoy the in house spa and gym, plus the rooftop restaurant and outdoor pool.

Westcliff village is an affluent district and it’s here that the Four Seasons established their hotel. Set on a hillside and surrounded by gardens, fountains and courtyards, the accommodation is stylish, with classic hints and nods to African culture. The restaurant, Flames, serves fine regionally inspired dishes (including braai food) and has a terrace offering far-reaching views. There’s also an alfresco spa lounge, where guests can order lighter bites and healthy dishes. The spa itself provides harmonising relaxation experiences, with a dreamy 25-metre adults-only lap pool. Families have their own pool area to enjoy, as well as excellent facilities catering to children.

In the vein of a posh villa, this lovely hotel is only 15 minutes away from the middle of Cape Town. With gentle colours and marble fixtures in the bathrooms, the rooms at Belmont Mount Nelson offer a sumptuous experience. With some rooms, you can get a view of Table Top Mountain, a balcony, a 4 poster bed, a private kitchen, and even your own little courtyard. Diners can enjoy Mediterranean style dinner, or British style afternoon tea, as well as visit the gym, spa and two outdoor pools.