4 Best Hotels in Franschhoek, The Western Cape and Winelands

If you fancy being in the heart of the village, Le Ballon Rouge makes a good base because you're just a five-minute walk from galleries, restaurants, and the general buzz. The guesthouse—in a restored 1904 Victorian home—is both welcoming and relaxing. The rooms are individually decorated in a pleasing mix of traditional and contemporary; a brass bedstead sits in one room, a modern four-poster in another. The Owner's Suite, which can be yours despite the name, has a private deck and whirlpool tub with a mountain view—just the thing for a starry evening with a glass of Franschhoek's best. 

Part of the Leeu Collection—which seems to own half the town these days—this classy guesthouse exuding privacy and peace is a Winelands favorite. Rooms in two-story whitewashed cottages face a pool deck and central garden exploding with flowers. Upstairs rooms have timber beams and mountain views, and suites have private pools. Be sure to book in advance for a table at Protégé or Épice, the latest restaurants from the team at the multi-award-winning La Colombe in Cape Town. 

Originally built as the home of a British missionary, this lovingly restored guesthouse also once served as a school before becoming a hotel with rooms decorated with rich fabrics and luxurious finishes. Two have their own plunge pools, one has a Jacuzzi, and others have generous fireplaces. You're a five-minute stroll away from Franschhoek. On arrival, you're automatically booked in at highly rated Bouillabaisse, the sister seafood restaurant down the road, but you're welcome to eat anywhere in the food lovers' paradise that is Franschhoek.

You know you're in good company at the understated and elegant Owner's Cottage on Grande Provence Wine Estate when the visitors' book includes Jude Law and British royals Sophie and Prince Edward. The cottage's six rooms are decorated in muted tones more fitting to a farmhouse than an upmarket residence. The lounge has inviting couches next to a fireplace, underfloor heating, and complimentary sherry. For summer there's a fantastic pool and whirlpool tub. Breakfast is served in a pretty conservatory and includes delicious freshly baked goods and a full cooked breakfast. If the Owner's Cottage isn't available, ask about La Provençale Villa, which is smaller but no less comfortable.