Mont Rochelle Hotel & Vineyard

Perched high above the valleys of Franschhoek, views from the main area are stunning; settle under a pagoda in the manicured garden, cocktail in hand, or grab a sun lounger by the pool for the best views. Inside, astro-turf chairs and neon ceramic bulldogs add a touch of quirky humour to Mika restaurant, the perfect spot for a generous breakfast or blowout dinner. At lunch, amble around the enormous grounds before ending up at The Country Kitchen for tapas and bubbles.

The 22 rooms are contemporary but elegant, low key but luxurious and definitely win first prize for attention to detail with mini-bars, snacks and a couple of bottles of estate wine to sink you into relaxed contentment. Most have magnificent views over the valley courtesy of sparkling floor to ceiling windows and some (the Cabernet and Pinotage rooms) have private terraces, perfect for lazy afternoons. For the ultimate extravagance, choose one of the Cap Classique suites with mini lounge, terrace and private plunge pool.

In between wining, dining and picnicking, it’s well worth exploring the beautiful grounds of the estate on horseback, by mountain bike or on a good long country walk. The famous Franschhoek Wine Tram also stops at the estate, so hop on to discover some of the other vineyards in the area – and forget about the car! If you’re feeling active, head to the Mont Rochelle nature reserve on the other side of the village for a breath-taking hike before falling into the Africology spa back at the hotel.