Vineyard Hotel

Built in 1799 as the home of Lady Anne Barnard -- whose journal illustrations are displayed in a little hallway gallery -- the hotel's carefully restored buildings sit on seven acres of beautifully landscaped grounds laced with paths and bridges over Liesbeek River. Two old ships' cannons greet visitors beneath three arches in the bright entryway. Inside, period details and antiques remain on display in the terracotta-tiled halls and sitting parlors, with easy chairs and additional arched doorways complementing the spacious lobby.

Located in the quiet Newlands neighborhood, the Vineyard Hotel is within walking distance of the shopping and restaurants found at Cavendish Square. It's a 15-minute drive from the city center and Victoria & Alfred Waterfront's vibrant tourist scene. Table Mountain National Park, the Newlands cricket and rugby grounds, and the wineries which the hotel's vineyard supplies are all within 45 minutes from the property by car. Cape Town International Airport is about a 20-minute drive west.

All 207 rooms here have mountain, courtyard, or river views, and some come with private patios or small balconies. The contemporary decor combines neutral, grey, or beige carpets and walls with natural wood and chic black lamps. Sitting areas have designer chairs with attractive glass tables that double as work desks. Automatic espresso machines and minibars can be found on light-wood shelving next to ample closet space. Many of the modern bathrooms have tiled walk-in showers and separate soaking tubs with their own handheld shower heads. There are also older rooms in need of renovation that have dated amenities. 

The hotel has several acres of gardens to explore, complete with friendly turtles who wander around the grounds. Completing the scene are an outdoor pool and a small indoor pool in a fantastic atrium with natural light. The hotel's well-liked restaurants have innovative menus that attract locals to the inviting atmosphere and outdoor seating. Myoga serves international fusion cuisine with a large wine selection from the on-site cellar. The Square focuses on sushi under a glass ceiling with live piano accompaniment. And a free breakfast is served in the Garden Lounge & Patio, where guests can also take afternoon tea.

Angsana Spa has a rain-mist relaxation room and ten treatment rooms with a full range of massages, facials, scrubs, and body polishes available. The fitness center is in a bright space with floor-to-ceiling windows, free weights, treadmills, stationary bikes, and cardio machines. The hotel's dedicated conference center spans two floors, with state-of-the-art equipment and rooms capable of hosting events for 280 people.