Spier Hotel & Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

I would definitely stay at Spier Hotel again. The grounds were really beautiful and the feel of the hotel was relaxing and luxurious. The hotel also served top quality food. You can hire bikes at the hotel to cycle around its grounds as it is set beside a lake and river area - perfect for picnics and wine tasting. It is also a great hotel for birdwatching with the chance to spot many specious of birds that flock to the lake area. There are plenty of wine tasting sessions at the hotel that you can book, and you can even book onto a segway excursion to explore the wine farm grounds.

The hotel area is private – only accessible to hotel guests - while part of the grounds is open to the public to use the restaurant and wine tasting services. The pool is heated in the winter but not in the summer so it’s comfortable all year round. The standard rooms are very large with vaulted ceilings and ooze space, comfort and style. There are two amazing restaurants in the hotel and a rooftop bar with open fires, open from sunset every day (weather permitting).

Top tips: This hotel is ideal for staying at pre or post international flights as it is only a 20-minute drive from Cape Town Airport, a great alternative to heading into Cape Town itself.

The hotel is also great for families thanks to open space, kids’ activities, and flexible dining. Book a riverside or vineyard-facing room for a more tranquil experience. Stay at least two nights—there’s far more to do here than a single wine tasting.