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Set on the famous Helshoogte mountain pass that weaves from Stellenbosch to the heart of the Cape Winelands—Franschhoek—Delaire boasts jaw-dropping views across the vineyard-filled valley below. Established in 2009 by the Laurence Graff, whose family pioneered the diamond industry in South Africa in 1960s, the Delaire Estate is a superb blend of art, design, food and wine. Laze in your very own plunge pool while admiring the mountain view, or head for a private guided tour of the estate wine cellar or fully indulge on the flagship restaurant's terrace with quite possibly the best lunchtime view in the Cape Winelands.
From $830 person/night
Your surroundings. From the 24-carat views across the expertly-manicured gardens and vineyards to the wine lounge, on-site shops, spa and cinema room, it’s all incredible!
You know how you normally stay away from the hotel restaurant? Not here! The two onsite eateries, one serving contemporary South African fare and one with an Asian flair, are some of the best in the region.
The estate gets very busy with visitors in the high season, but the rooms are secluded enough that you can (hopefully!) avoid them.
Perched on top of the valley, you have panoramic views no matter where you are standing on the estate. Aside from the stylish guest lodges, food and wine are very much the order of the day at Delaire. Their latest restaurant addition is Indochine, with a modern Asian Fusion twist. The signature Delaire Graff restaurant, with its famous terrace, is always humming. With produce sourced daily from the estate’s greenhouse and vegetable gardens, their Farmer Angus Sirloin washed down with their signature Merlot is always a great pick.
Delaire's lodges are all immaculately decorated with the owner's private art collection and glass-fronted to take full advantage of the views. Kick back for some R&R—winelands style—or have a dip in your very own heated plunge pool. With oversized beds, marble bathrooms furnished with every beauty product under the sun and funky, custom-made furniture, Delaire is a lavish retreat bursting with style.
If you're feeling in need of a pick-me-up, then head for the luxurious lodge spa for a hydro massage bath or indulge in an alfresco treatment overlooking the valley. There is also an infinity pool as well as Pilates and a gym. Otherwise, head out for some local wine tasting or visit the Winelands foodie capital—Franschhoek village—with numerous award winning restaurants and an eclectic mix of cafes and art galleries.