Best Country House Holiday Rentals in South Africa

Swellendam, Western Cape

Schoone Oordt Country House stands as a striking Victorian Manor House in Swellendam, South Africa, lovingly restored by Richard and Alison Walker over many years. The property's extensive grounds house eight luxury rooms, a quaint family cottage, a spacious family suite, and a romantic honeymoon suite set amidst lush gardens sheltered by aged oak trees. Each room is equipped with modern conveniences while retaining the Victorian charm through unique antiques. Guests are invited to relax in the light-filled conservatory, enjoy meals in the intimate dining room, or unwind in the cosy bar. The warmth of original wooden floors and antique pieces creates a welcoming ambience, encouraging guests to 'kuier'—a South African term for casual visiting and socialising.

Bloemfontein, South Africa

De Oude Kraal Country Estate & Spa is a historic retreat set on a sprawling 3000-hectare sheep farm that has been in operation since 1855. Located near Bloemfontein, the estate offers a serene and luxurious escape for families, couples, and solo travellers seeking peace and adventure. The property seamlessly blends traditional hospitality with modern amenities, ensuring guests enjoy a comfortable stay while experiencing the beauty of the Free State countryside. With pet-friendly accommodation options, including self-catering units and luxury suites, De Oude Kraal provides an ideal base to explore both on-site activities and nearby attractions.

Somerset West, Western Cape

Capelands Resort PTY (LTD) invites you to escape into a world of tranquillity and charm on its sprawling 12.5-hectare wine and olive farm nestled in Somerset West’s Helderberg Basin. Surrounded by the majestic mountains and overlooking False Bay, this farm stay offers sweeping views and an Italian-inspired atmosphere. Laura Mauri from Milan and Johann Innerhofer, co-founder of the Merano Wine Festival, bring their passion for hospitality and Redstone wines to create a unique experience that blends culinary excellence with natural beauty. Whether you are seeking relaxation by the pool or exploring nearby attractions such as the Cape Winelands and Strand Beach, Capelands Resort provides an idyllic setting for your South African adventure.

Tulbagh, South Africa

Duikersdrift Winelands Country Escape is a working boutique wine and olive farm nestled in the picturesque Tulbagh Valley, just a 90-minute drive from Cape Town. The property offers a serene retreat with panoramic mountain views and open countryside vistas, perfect for romantic getaways or family vacations. Each self-catering cottage combines rustic charm with modern amenities, ensuring guests enjoy both comfort and character. With its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, Tulbagh provides an ideal base to explore the Cape Winelands' rich cultural heritage, world-renowned wines, and diverse outdoor activities.

Rheenendal, South Africa

Portland Manor is a historical country hotel set on a working farm in Rheenendal, just 20 km from Knysna along South Africa’s scenic Garden Route. The recently refurbished hotel offers panoramic views of the landscaped gardens and Outeniqua Mountains, providing an idyllic backdrop for both adventure seekers and those seeking tranquillity. With its extensive grounds and proximity to nature, Portland Manor is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding forests, mountains, and beaches. Whether you’re looking to unwind or engage in a variety of outdoor activities, this charming estate offers a unique blend of comfort and natural beauty.

Stanford, South Africa

Blue Gum Country Estate offers an idyllic retreat on the Klein Rivier near Stanford, providing a unique Overberg experience for those seeking rustic sophistication amidst magnificent countryside. The estate features five self-catering rooms, a spacious villa, and a two-bedroom house, each designed with quality and comfort in mind. Ideal for families and groups, these accommodations boast warm domestic charm and several units feature open fireplaces, making winter visits particularly inviting. Surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, the property offers a tennis court, pool, and play area, ensuring there is something to suit every age group. Located just two hours from Cape Town, Blue Gum Country Estate serves as an ideal stopover en route to Cape Agulhas or de Hoop Nature Reserve.

Oudtshoorn, South Africa

Swartberg Country Manor is situated on the farm 'Voorbedacht' in the heart of Oudtshoorn's Cango Valley, offering panoramic views of the Swartberg Mountains. This historical dwelling, dating back to 1864, has been meticulously preserved, blending timeless charm with modern comfort. The property features a variety of accommodation options, including en-suite rooms in the Main House and Historical House, as well as Karoo-style cottages. Each room offers stunning mountain vistas and a tranquil setting that invites guests to unwind and explore the surrounding natural beauty.

Nottingham Road, South Africa

Hawklee Country House stands on 5 hectares of unspoiled Midlands beauty, situated along the banks of the Lions River. This tranquil retreat offers a serene escape with its six free-standing cottages, each featuring en-suite bathrooms and private Jacuzzi spa baths. The property is close to all amenities in the Midlands Meander area and just an hour and a half's drive from the coast, making it ideal for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy stunning river views from their sitting areas, beds, and spa baths, ensuring a luxurious stay amidst natural splendour.

Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

Fynbos Ridge Country House & Cottages is set amidst fragrant fynbos on a private nature reserve just outside Plettenberg Bay. The property offers spectacular mountain views and an abundance of birdlife, making it the perfect retreat for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Guests can relax by the secluded pool or venture out to explore the many activities in the vicinity, including forest hiking trails, coastal beaches, top golf courses, whale watching ocean safaris, and more. Fynbos Ridge is a 5-star rated establishment with TGCSA certification and Carbon Neutral Approved status, ensuring that guests enjoy a luxurious stay while minimising environmental impact.

Tulbagh, South Africa

Lemberg Wine Estate is an idyllic retreat nestled in the heart of Tulbagh Valley, surrounded by the majestic Witzenberg and Winterhoek mountains. This self-catering estate offers a serene escape for families or groups of friends seeking tranquillity and adventure. The property lies 120 km northeast of Cape Town and is just a short drive from historic Tulbagh, making it an ideal base to explore the region's rich history and natural beauty. With its picturesque vineyards and rolling hills, Lemberg Wine Estate provides a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for both local South African and international travellers.

Bela Bela(Warmbaths), South Africa

Sondela Nature Reserve & Spa Country House stands as a beacon of luxury and tranquillity within the serene Bushveld savannahs of Bela Bela. This 4-star boutique hotel offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and modern comfort, set against the backdrop of majestic trees that have stood for over two centuries. The property's lush gardens and rolling green lawns provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling world outside, making it ideal for both local South African and international travellers seeking relaxation and adventure.

Clarens, South Africa

De Molen Farm is situated in the picturesque Rooiberge region between Clarens and the Golden Gate Highlands National Park, approximately 200 metres off the scenic R712 route. The farm offers a tranquil retreat with rustic sandstone cottages that blend seamlessly into the natural landscape. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery, guests can enjoy panoramic mountain views while staying in comfortable self-catering accommodation. De Molen Farm is not just a place to rest; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the countryside and experience the charm of a working farm with its herd of Nguni cattle and sheep.