1. Hawksmoor House, Matjieskuil
With only five guest rooms, Hawksmoor has the feel of an intimate country home. The farmhouse kitchen comes complete with an Aga and, outside, an organic herb garden. Further afield are more than 500 acres of vineyard, cultivating chenin blanc, shiraz and pinotage grapes for Hawksmoor's wines. Guests can relax in front of the fire in the drawing room, enjoy the wine cellar and tasting room or take a dip in the swimming pool, with spectacular views of Table Mountain.
Hawksmoor House, Matjieskuil Farm, Stellenbosch, Western Cape (00 27 21 884 4815; www.hawksmoor.co.za). B&B starts at R750 (£48).
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2. Grande Roche, Paarl
The Cape Dutch homestead and wine farm of this national monument estate in the Drakenstein Valley have been restored and turned into a lavish retreat. Get pampered in the health centre, before exploring the award-winning cellar, which stocks some 6,500 bottles.
Grande Roche, Plantasie Street, Paarl, Western Cape (00 27 218 635 100; www.granderoche.co.za). B&B from R1,800 (£115).
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3. Grande Provence, Franschhoek
The Owner’s Cottage, surrounded by the 300-year-old oaks and manicured gardens of the Grande Provence wine estate, offers boutique accommodation. Crisp white lines and natural hues are complemented by lawns and twisting vines. Take a cellar tour at the award-winning winery or admire artwork by leading South African artists.
Grande Provence, Main Road, Franschhoek, Western Cape (00 27 218 768 600; www.grandeprovence.co.za). Doubles start at R12,000 (£77) half board, with exclusive use of the cottage.
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4. La Residence, Franschhoek
La Residence merges rustic charm with chateau opulence and an eclectic mix of antiques, chandeliers and Persian rugs. Cuisine is served against a dramatic backdrop of mountains, while the infinity pool and each of the 11 sumptuous suites offer vineyard views.
La Residence, Elandskloof Private Road, Franschhoek, Western Cape (0027 218 764 100; www.laresidence.co.za). B&B from R6,200 (£399).
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5. L’Avenir Country Lodge, Stellenbosch
This plush retreat is set in the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountains. The 11 ensuite rooms are decorated with an African twist and open on to sun-drenched patios. The main draw is the picturesque vineyard that produces award-winning wines.
L’Avenir Country Lodge, L’Avenir Vineyards, Stellenbosch, Western Cape (00 27 218 895 001; www.lavenir.co.za). Doubles start at R660 (£42), including breakfast and a wine tasting.
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19 April 2008, Chosen by Rhianna Morton
