Whether you’re wanting to wake up to vineyards right outside your window or to enjoy your morning coffee on a balcony with a scenic view of the town, KARLA DE BOD selected eight stunning properties ideal for a winter stay in Stellenbosch and beyond.
LANZERAC
In winter, the tall trees lining Lanzerac’s entrance turn stunning shades of gold and amber, fireplaces are lit to warm all corners of the estate, and guests can linger longer in bed to enjoy all the comforts of a home away from home. “The estate is home to several distinct spaces to suit every mood, whether you prefer to read a book in the majestic Governor’s Hall, socialise in any one of our restaurants and bars, or unwind in our heated pool at the Spa,” says marketing manager Lourensia Parr. “Whatever you choose, we are committed to making your stay memorable.”
All Lanzerac’s guest areas, where original artworks complement the gleaming antique furniture, are designed for comfort, relaxation and countryside romance.
Lourensia recommends that guests try one of Lanzerac’s gourmet hot chocolate drinks in the cosy Tasting Room & Deli, enjoy conversations over a bottle of red wine next to a fireplace, indulge in a whisky and canape tasting in the Craven Lounge or relax with one of the luxurious spa treatments available.
CAPE GRACE
Winter at Cape Grace by Fairmont invites a feeling of serenity and warmth, where cosy afternoons can be spent in the blissful Library Lounge, says sales and marketing director Stacey Hopkins.
“Seated in velvety wingback chairs while listening to relaxing music, guests can enjoy golden winter sunset views over the marina. And what better way to warm up than with one of Cape Grace’s many handcrafted whiskies or meticulously mixed cocktails?” she asks.
When it comes to dining, the mouth-watering culinary treats include delectable home-baked bread and hearty soups, especially prepared with carefully selected seasonal produce.
Cape Grace’s soon-to-be-launched specially crafted tea experiences feature surprise elements with South African winter flavours. Here, guests can indulge in luxurious treats, including naartjie-infused Van der Hum liqueurs and traditional Amarula Creams.
“As part of the global Fairmont family, we aim to spoil our guests with winter comforts and soothing warmth in a relaxed and snug setting,” explains Stacey. “Our team will ensure winter at Cape Grace is steeped in warmth and joy.”
BONNE ESPERANCE BOUTIQUE GUEST HOUSE
Winter casts a magical charm over Bonne Esperance Boutique Guest House, a landmark Victorian villa where guests can expect a peaceful and cosy atmosphere. It’s a space where heritage elegance meets modern comfort, says owner Annemien Kotze.
“The crisp air outside contrasts beautifully with the warm, welcoming interiors filled with soft lighting, a roaring fireplace, plush throws and the gentle hum of conversation over a glass of wine or a warming cappuccino,” says Annemien.
Winter at Bonne Esperance is all about understated luxury and heartfelt hospitality, where guests are encouraged to embrace the slower pace of the season. Thoughtful touches, like heated towel rails, a crackling fire in the breakfast room and personalised recommendations for nearby fireside wine tastings or indoor activities, all add to the warmth of the welcome.
“Our focus on detail and comfort ensures each guest feels truly at home
– and just a little pampered,” smiles Annemien. “Winter brings out a different side of Stellenbosch – quieter, moodier and deeply beautiful – and we love sharing that side of our town with guests from around the world.”
VERGENOEGD LÖW BOUTIQUE HOTEL
At Vergenoegd Löw Boutique Hotel, luxury is redefined by the seamless blending of historical charm and contemporary comfort. Each suite is meticulously designed to reflect the estate’s 18th-century Cape Dutch heritage and today’s sustainability efforts, all while providing modern indulgences tailored for a tranquil stay, says managing director Corius Visser. “Vergenoegd Löw is a retreat in every sense of the word, where the pace of life slows down, allowing you to indulge. Here we offer the perfect balance of nourishment for your body, soul and senses,” he says.
Inspired by the ‘Vergenoegd’ part of the name, meaning content or well-satisfied, the hotel wants guests to feel fulfilled and enriched by their stay.
Dining is a highlight too – from Cape heritage small plates at Geuwels to the award- winning five-course menu at Clara’s Barn.
Whether you’re walking in the estate’s sculpture garden, discovering regenerative farming practices or simply soaking up the stillness, winter at Vergenoegd Löw promises a truly nourishing stay.
SPIER HOTEL
There’s a special kind of stillness to winter at Spier Hotel, says brand manager Aimee Raymond. “Spier Hotel’s cosy seating nooks, exceptional South African design and thought-provoking art create a warm, layered atmosphere – the kind of space where you feel at home the moment you arrive,” she says.
Spier offers the freedom to slow down and truly reconnect. Guests are invited to explore the farm at their own pace, breathing in crisp, clean air and discovering hidden corners.
“Indulge in a slow dinner by the fire at Spier Veld, our dinner restaurant rooted in pasture-to-plate principles. Warm up in the spa with a herbal massage or in the steam room, then settle into the lounge with a glass of red and nowhere else to be,” advises Aimee. “Let winter’s quietness work its magic.”
At the new Spier Hotel, every object tells a story and every room reflects a deep love for art, local artisanal craft and, above all, comfort. “We believe winter is one of the most beautiful times to visit, when nature slows down and offers space to simply be.
“The hotel has been thoughtfully designed to feel warm, welcoming and wonderfully unhurried – like a home away from home on the farm,” Aimee says.
ERINVALE ESTATE HOTEL & SPA
At Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa, winter brings a sense of quiet luxury, nestled in a haven of warmth, comfort and understated elegance, says brand lead Wilma Farirayi.
“Erinvale’s beautifully appointed rooms feature classic charm and modern luxury,” adds Wilma. Some have private patios that overlook beautifully manicured gardens, while others open up to scenic views of the Hottentots Holland Mountains – the perfect backdrop for a serene winter escape.
Throughout the estate, the glow of fireplaces creates cosy gathering spots at its various dining options. Guests may prefer hearty meals in the Bistro, social dining at Magnolia or fine dining at Stefan’s – or even the crisp outdoor ambience of Oak Terrace.
Erinvale Spa becomes a sanctuary during the cooler months, offering bespoke treatments tailored to your needs. Combining wellness with indulgence in a peaceful setting is the perfect way to recharge, asserts Wilma.
“Let us wrap you in warmth this season, with heartfelt hospitality and thoughtful touches that make every moment feel like home,” she says.
OUDE WERF
Winter transforms the Oude Werf Hotel into a calm centre amid the lively buzz of Church Street. Cold air chases guests inside, where the hotel’s warm, inviting spaces offer a peaceful retreat, says general manager Nina Daniels.
“Winter at Oude Werf is designed around the idea of retreat and return,” says Nina. “From the moment you arrive, we set the tone with a warm welcome – a sip of sherry or red wine – and invite you to unwind.”
Oude Werf boasts crackling fireplaces in the lounge and restaurant, creating intimate spaces to linger in. On winter days, the hotel invites guests to enjoy a fireside lunch or relax in the lounge with a drink and a good book. As evening approaches, enjoy a quiet dinner or retreat to your room to unwind, recommends Nina.
“Winter at Oude Werf is about creating a balance between the thrill of exploration and the serenity of the return,” she says. “It’s a place where you can slow down, settle in and feel the comfort of being in the centre of it all – ready to explore and return again.”
ONE&ONLY CAPE TOWN
One&Only Cape Town has the gift of versatility, embodying the magic of every season and offering a seamless blend of luxury and comfort year-round, says communications manager Michelle Monk. Winter brings to the hotel an enchantment that transforms it into a haven of warmth and intimacy, she adds with a smile.
“The Cape’s moody weather and grey skies amplify the cosiness of our Island Rooms and suites, many of which boast marble fireplaces that provide enough warmth to fill every room and drive away the bitter chill of the outdoors.”
One&Only Cape Town invites guests to indulge in comforting, soul-stirring cuisine across its celebrated dining venues: ROOI, Nobu, Isola and Vista Bar & Lounge. Apart from eclectic dining experiences, One&Only Cape Town offers soul-deep relaxation at its newly reimagined One&Only Spa, a sanctuary where awe-inspiring design meets world-class wellness. “Here, winter isn’t just weather; it’s an invitation to connect, unwind and be inspired,” says Michelle.