South Africa has some pretty amazing luxury hotels. Most of the locals can only dream of staying at these posh places. Having a bit of foreign coin certainly helps when it comes to picking an overseas holiday destination and best luxury hotel in South Africa.
Whether you’re looking for a city break – with option escape to the wilderness – or whether staying in the bush is more your thing, South Africa’s got it all.
Sometimes, we do like to dream, though. So, we’ve put together this little list, using a number of sources from around the web, to five you a little peak at some of South Africa’s best luxury hotels.
List of Top Luxury Hotels in South Africa
Cape Grace
Cape Grace is situated on a private quay. This luxury hotel in South Africa sits between Cape Town’s bustling V&A Waterfront and the tranquil yacht marina. There is no better position from where to soak in the natural beauty of our Mother City and the very essence of Cape Town living at its best.
The elegant and warm atmosphere, evident in every fine detail, begins at the welcoming reception lounge. The same extends to the hotels spacious harbor and mountain-facing rooms.
Stories of the Cape’s colorful past present themselves in their exquisite furniture, rare fabrics, intriguing artefacts and original antiques. Local paintings and sculptures lend a contemporary flair to our décor and feel, while fresh displays of Proteas that hint at the wonder of our natural botanical kingdom enrich each room.
Bushman’s Kloof Wilderness Reserve
Nestled in the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains, our ecological oasis is a magical wilderness experience among open plains, sandstone formations and ancient bush art sites dating back 10,000 years. Be at one with Africa in this multi-award-winning retreat with awe-inspiring activities, unique dining experiences, organic vegetable gardens and caring service.
The ultimate wilderness experience to escape, rest, heal and be at one with nature, with wide open plains, mystical rock formations, crystal clear waterfalls and an abundance of flora and fauna. A 7500-hectare malaria and predator free haven nestled at the foothills of the Cederberg Mountains, just 270km from Cape Town.
This South African Natural Heritage Site is home to over 130 documented Bushman rock art sites and the internationally renowned Rooibos tea.
One&Only Cape Town
Another luxury hotel in South Africa located smack bang in the vibrant playground of one of the most beautiful cities in the world, the One & Only is the ultimate in five-star luxury, within walking distance of the V&A Waterfront and stone’s throw from Cape Town’s city centre.
With so much to discover and experience in the beautiful city of Cape Town, travelers are encouraged to continue with their travel plans to South Africa. Whilst the city is experiencing a water shortage, Cape Town has become a shining example in fundamentally changing its relationship with water to move out of the current drought and towards a Sustainable Water Future. This iconic Mother City is open for business as usual and guests are welcome more than ever to enjoy this incredible destination.
Taj Cape Town
It has been described as Authentic, charming and exemplifying the amalgamation of our inner-city location with our service-oriented philosophy, this is where life’s special moments begin. You can choose from a selection of meticulously curated experiences, all deeply rooted in authenticity.
All the amenities at some of the city’s more expensive hotels and definitely among the best luxury hotels in South Africa– for a fraction of the price. Most rooms and suites have a balcony as well as a marble bathroom with a rain shower and large bath tub. Guests can also enjoy complimentary access to the sauna, steam room and heated lap pool in the Jiva Grande Spa.
Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
If views are what you’re after, the award-winning Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa is what you want. Dramatically located above the Atlantic Ocean, flanked by the majestic Twelve Apostles and Table Mountain, this award-winning luxury hotel in South Africa offers luxurious rooms and exquisite dining experiences.
Savor seafood and fine dining at Azure Restaurant, enjoy delicious cocktails and breath-taking sunsets at The Leopard Bar and luxuriate in our holistic spa with stunning outdoor gazebos.
Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel
The Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel is the most iconic luxury hotel in Cape Town. Surrounded by a lush garden with Table Mountain inviting you to come out and play, the Mount Nelson has something for everyone.
Located at the foot of Table Mountain is an inviting hotel, painted pink for peace in 1918. Within, the magic of a bygone era awaits. Delight in exquisitely restored interiors with quirky modern touches. Capture the light with a painting masterclass or unwind and indulge at the Librisa Spa. At this luxury hotel in South Africa, you are guaranteed an unforgettable stay.
Saxon Boutique Hotel and Spa
Saxon Boutique hotel is located at the heart of the City of Gold, Johannesburg. This luxury hotel in South Africa lies beneath the warm sunshine in the opulent, tree-lined suburb of Sandhurst. It is a uniquely perfect blend of rich cultural history and contemporary five-star service, the Saxon is situated on ten acres of magnificent indigenous gardens, providing a private and peaceful retreat like no other.
Saxon Boutique Hotel comes with three restaurants, free WiFi, and free parking. The Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa is African elegance personified. It’s ideal for solo travelers and expert staff will be able to advise on all that the City of Gold has to offer.
The Oyster Box Hotel
The Oyster Box has long been associated with the pinnacle of plush in Durban. With gorgeous sea views and located in the heart of Umhlanga Rocks, this is a great all-round option for those visiting Durban.
This is a national treasure as this is among South Africa’s most cherished hotel. Standing majestically on Umhlanga’s beachfront, overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic lighthouse, discover our timeless elegance.
Enjoy a multitude of dining options, including our famous curry feast and High Tea, and indulge in our award-winning spa amid tropical gardens.
The Plettenberg
The Plettenberg is situated on a rocky headland in Plettenberg Bay, along the famous Garden Route. This luxury hotel in Souh Africa is the ultimate South African seaside escape. The five-star hotel comes 35 beautifully appointed rooms and two family-style villas.
The Plettenberg showcases the most breathtaking vistas in Southern Africa, with views of the ocean, mountains and endless stretches of golden sand. Guests may enjoy world-class cuisine courtesy of Group Executive Chef Peter Tempelhoff’s SeaFood at The Plettenberg, where fresh seafood is the order of the day.
Zimbali Lodge
This luxury hotel in South Africa is located on KwaZulu-Natal’s famous Dolphin Coast. Zambali Lodge is under an abundant forest canopy. Zimbali is Zulu for ‘valley of flowers”. In the midst of this subtropical paradise, set within the serene confines of a coastal forest reserve.
The lodge is located 5 minutes from the bustling holiday town of Ballito. It is 20 minutes from Umhlanga and 30 minutes from Durban. This North Coast lodge provides easy access to the province’s attractions. Situated 16km from King Shaka International Airport, The Fairmont Zimbali Lodge is easily accessible.
The Fairmont Zimbali Lodge features 76 guest rooms and suites, whose warm wood tones evoke the natural splendour that surrounds this property.
Cape Royale Luxury Hotel and Residence
The Cape Royale offers award winning 5-star Accommodation in Cape Town. This luxury hotel in South Africa is situated close to the V&A Waterfront and De Waterkant. The hotel offers a Rooftop Pool Deck, Spa and 6 Restaurants.
The Cape Royale offers bright spacious One, Two and Three Bedroom Suites with a Juliet balcony. They also include a well-equipped kitchen and large living & entertainment areas. Rooftop Penthouses has a 270-degree view of Cape Town. It offers a separate dining area, a lounge with satellite TV and a private pool and terrace.
Guests have a choice between several dining options, Wellness Centre, Fitness Centre and a Rooftop Pool Deck. Ypu will be offered views of Cape Town Harbour and Table Mountain.