12 Incredible Places to Stay in Stellenbosch

Wow, have you heard about Stellenbosch? It’s this amazing town with a super cool wine route that has around 150 estates to explore. Talk about impressive! I definitely think Stellenbosch is a place you should visit over and over again. Trust me, it’s totally worth it!

Lucky for you, I’ve done all the research on where to stay in Stellenbosch:

• First things first, let’s talk options. Stellenbosch has got you covered no matter what kind of stay you’re looking for. There are plenty of places to choose from, whether you’re on a tight budget or ready to splurge! Prices usually start at around R750 per person, but don’t worry, I found some great deals for all you budget-savvy travelers out there.
• One of my favorite things about Stellenbosch is the incredible energy and charm you’ll find in the town’s historic center. Can you picture it? Picture cobblestone streets lined with cozy restaurants and trendy bars. That’s where I focused most of my search for accommodations because I knew you’d love being right in the heart of the action. But wait, there’s more! I also found some hidden gems that offer spectacular views of the vineyards and mountains. Who wouldn’t want to wake up to that?

Looking for the Best Towns and Accommodations in South Africa’s Winelands?

If you’re planning a trip to South Africa’s Winelands, there are a few key areas you should definitely check out. Three of the most charming towns to visit are Church Street, Dorp Street, and Die Laan. Die Laan, in particular, is an 18th-century track that used to connect the old Drostdy with the road to Jonkershoek. When choosing where to stay, consider options located at the end of cul-de-sacs rather than along busy routes – these tend to be more peaceful. For breathtaking views, make sure to visit Jonkershoek, Helshoogte, and Devon Valley – they are known for their extraordinary scenery.

When it comes to accommodations, there are plenty of one-bedroom or studio options available, as well as a few two- or three-bedroom apartments. However, if you’re looking for an expansive villa that can accommodate a large extended family or a group of friends celebrating a special occasion, the choices might be limited.

The Best View in the Winelands

1. Banhoek Lodge

Ranked #2 of 118 B&Bs/Inns on TripAdvisor

Wow! That’s the immediate reaction when you step into your room at Banhoek Lodge. The floor-to-ceiling slide-and-fold doors open up to reveal a breathtaking view of a tiny valley surrounded by majestic mountains. The lodge, which has recently been renovated by new owners, boasts beautifully furnished rooms, but it’s the location that truly sets it apart. Positioned on a terrace at the base of the Helshoogte Pass, Banhoek Lodge offers one of the most extraordinary views in the Winelands – and that’s saying something, considering the region is filled with competition. You might expect such a view to come with a hefty price tag, but Banhoek Lodge offers exceptional value. Just a few hundred meters above you’ll find Clouds (with rooms starting at R2,250) and Delaire Graff (offering lodges starting at R14,550), making Banhoek Lodge a desirable choice. The lodge is conveniently located within walking distance of five wine-tasting rooms, including Thelema, which happens to be one of my personal favorites. Additionally, there are three exceptional dining options nearby: Delaire Graff, Indochine, and Tokara. Imagine the delight of strolling back to your room after a wine tasting or a delicious lunch, knowing you can even indulge in an in-room spa treatment. I, for one, cannot wait to return to Banhoek Lodge.

Here’s a tip: You’ll love all seven rooms at Banhoek Lodge. They each offer a breathtaking view, a cozy fireplace, underfloor heating, and a stocked minibar. But my personal favorite is the mountain-facing suite, which boasts a truly mesmerizing view from its corner location.
And the cost? You can enjoy all of this starting from just R992.50 per person, including a delicious breakfast and some complimentary wine tasting vouchers. It’s an incredible deal!
How to get in touch: Call 0218851791 or visit banhoeklodge.co.za.

Looking for a great self-catering option?

2. Check out Laanhof Studios

It’s listed on TripAdvisor but doesn’t have a rating.

If you’re on a budget, Laanhof Studios is the perfect choice. Nestled among 19th-century buildings and surrounded by a picturesque scene of 340-year-old oak trees, this place is simply charming. While they also have a historic Victorian house with three bedrooms for rent, I highly recommend the Laanhof Studios. These modern apartments offer a funky and comfortable vibe, with each one having its own entrance. The open-plan studios are great for two people, with options for twin beds or a double. They come complete with a lounge area, dining table, workspace, and even air conditioning. If you need more space, Laanhof 3 can comfortably accommodate four people with its two en suite bedrooms. Plus, all the studios have well-equipped kitchens and outdoor areas with tables and chairs – perfect for enjoying meals outside. The only downside is that there’s no swimming pool, but with everything else this place offers, it’s hard to complain. Cleaning services are available on weekdays.

Here’s my advice: If you’re looking for a great room at Laanhof, I suggest going for Laanhof 2 or 3 on the first floor. They offer slightly elevated views and balconies, which are lovely. However, if you’re visiting in winter, I recommend booking Laanhof 4. Why? Well, it has a wood-burning closed-combustion stove right next to the bed, which will keep you nice and cozy. Plus, it opens onto a small courtyard, adding a charming touch to your stay.

The cost: You can book a room at Laanhof starting from R1,050 per night for two people – great value for such a beautiful place.

If you’re interested, you can contact them at 0662214452 or visit their website at laanhof.co.za.

Now, let me tell you about the best guesthouse in town – River Manor.

3. River Manor

According to TripAdvisor, River Manor is ranked as the third best hotel out of 18 hotels in Stellenbosch.

Situated in two adjacent manor houses along oak-lined Die Laan, River Manor Boutique Hotel has been one of my top choices for accommodation since I began reviewing places back in 1998. The new owners have given the rooms and decor a stunning makeover, and the grounds have been spruced up too, making the hotel look better than ever. The rooms have a more minimalistic and uncluttered design now, prioritizing comfort. However, it’s the elegant public spaces that truly catch your eye, offering a visual treat to all guests. These spaces overlook a well-tended garden, adding to the hotel’s charm. One of the highlights of River Manor is its spacious pool, which happens to be one of the largest in town. You’ll find plenty of comfortable loungers to relax on, as well as charming tables on the shaded verandas. As for its location, it feels like you’re part of a cozy residential suburb, yet only a short two-minute walk away from the heart of Stellenbosch’s historic district.

River Manor provides a range of hotel services, including 24-hour reception and a daily turn-down service. However, it’s important to note that it doesn’t have a restaurant per se. Don’t worry though, as they do have a bar where you can grab a drink and some light snacks. Considering this, I personally consider River Manor to be more of a guesthouse rather than a full-fledged hotel.

There’s one small drawback that I should mention. Despite being advertised as being “on the banks of the Eerste River,” it’s a bit misleading. The river actually runs through an artificial channel located on the other side of the road.

My favorite room: I love all the rooms upstairs, but the studio room is definitely the best bang for your buck.
Price: Starting at R875 per person for bed and breakfast.
Contact: 0218879944, rivermanor.co.za

The absolute best hotel

4. Coopmanhuijs

Ranked number 1 out of 18 hotels on TripAdvisor

Let me tell you something, those TripAdvisor reviewers aren’t wrong – this five-star gem with 16 rooms is the epitome of luxury in town. First of all, the location is unbeatable: it overlooks the charming Church Street and sits right across from the lovely Oude Werf (another excellent hotel, but not as cozy or fancy). But that’s just the beginning. Coopmanhuijs is a piece of history itself, dating all the way back to 1713. The current owners have taken three whole years to restore and reimagine this place, and boy, have they succeeded. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, reminiscent of those grand, elegant European hotels. The neo-Georgian facade remains untouched, while the inside has been lovingly designed, with several carpeted staircases leading to hidden rooms in every corner, exuding an air of discreet luxury. At the back, you’ll find a peaceful courtyard centered around a beautiful pool, but it’s the charming front terrace with its enchanting wrought-iron tables that steals the show. And let me not forget about the service and food – they are impeccable. Picture yourself indulging in a mouthwatering steak Béarnaise, impeccably served by a lively waiter. You’ll wish time would just pause so you can savor the moment forever. Even if you can’t book a room at Coopmanhuijs, do yourself a favor and make a dining reservation at Helena’s – you won’t regret it.

Room tip: Let me tell you, this place is so popular that you better grab whatever room you can get! They have five different room categories, and let me tell you, they’re all equally amazing. Now, if you’re trying to stick to a budget, you might want to check out their sister property, the Stellenbosch Hotel. It’s a three-star hotel, also located on Church Street, but it doesn’t have the prime location. And the prices? Well, they start at R650 per person for bed and breakfast (you can find more information at stellenboschhotel.co.za). Now, let’s talk about the cost of staying at Coopmanhuijs. It starts at R828 per person for bed and breakfast. Oh! And don’t forget about their winter special, which includes dinner and costs R1,990 for two people. Pretty cool, huh? So, if you want to reach out to them, just give them a call at 0218873644 or you can find more information on their website at coopmanhuijs.co.za.

Smartest self-catering

5. Collection Luxury Apartments

Now, I gotta tell you, TripAdvisor listed these apartments, but they didn’t give them a rating.

Now, here’s something I love about Church Street. The place is buzzing with energy, especially with those two-story balconies above the bars and restaurants. It’s like a little hub, you know what I mean? And if you’re looking for a self-catering apartment that offers some serious luxury, then you’ve gotta check out the Collection Luxury Apartments. These apartments are managed by a guy named Phillip Woest, and let me tell you, he doesn’t mess around. He personally picks out each and every apartment for his collection. You’ve got three options on Church Street. There are two studios that sit in the Oudehoek block, right on the corner of Andringa Street. And if you’re looking for something bigger, there’s a two-bedroom apartment on the corner of Church and Ryneveld. But wait, there’s more! There’s also a three-bedroom apartment called Rozenhof Villa on Dorp Street, which is lined with all these stunning historic buildings. Phillip does have another apartment on De Zalze golf estate, but honestly, unless you’re a golfer, it’s probably better to be in town. Now, let me tell you about the apartments themselves. Each bedroom comes with its own private bathroom, and the finishes and furniture are top-of-the-line, as they say. And here’s something cool. Each apartment has its very own housekeeper, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. And when you arrive, you’ll find Nespresso pods, rusks, chocolate, milk, and bottled water waiting for you. Pretty sweet deal, right?

Here’s a tip for choosing the best room: If you’re looking for a great apartment on Church Street, you have other options to consider. Two highly recommended choices are Eikehof 4 and 20. Both apartments are beautifully furnished and have unique touches that make them stand out. Eikehof 4 and 20 feature amazing ceramics by Mervyn Gers and breathtaking paintings by Gregoire Boonzaier. You can book these apartments for only R1,150 per night, and they are perfect for couples. These lovely apartments can be found on safarinow.com. Another option for a cozy bachelor pad is Oudehoek 103. It’s available for R850 per night and is ideal for two people. You can check out availability and book at lifeandleisure.co.za.

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, this is the one for you:

6. Rest @ Chabivin Vineyard Studio

This listing is not available on any official sites

Wow, let me tell you about this amazing cottage I discovered! It’s so spacious and open, with beautiful decorations and all the necessary amenities. One thing that really caught my attention was the wood-fired hot tub on the large deck. It’s a unique and eco-friendly feature that’s becoming quite popular around here. Picture this: soaking in a steaming hot tub, surrounded by vineyards, with the smoke from the chimney rising up into a sky full of stars. It’s like a dream come true!

But that’s not all! On the deck, overlooking the tub, there’s also a raised firepit. So if you’re not in the mood for “bush TV”, you can gather around the fire and enjoy the cozy atmosphere. And here’s the cherry on top: the cottage comes with a mobile tablet that has Netflix loaded on it, so you can watch your favorite series on the flatscreen TV. And if you’re a music lover, there’s a Spotify music library with a Bluetooth speaker.

Inside the cottage, there’s a wood-burning stove that adds to the rustic charm. And the bathroom is open-plan, with a shower and a bathtub for a truly luxurious experience.

Tip for choosing a room: The Vineyard Studio offers a visually private experience. However, keep in mind that there is a two-bedroom cottage nearby. Depending on the age of your temporary neighbors, this might affect your peace and quiet.

Price: You can stay in the Vineyard Studio for R1,300 per night. It can accommodate two people.

Contact Information: To make a booking, you can call 0833242711 or visit their website at restatchabivin.co.za

Best design

7. Twice Central Guesthouse

TripAdvisor has ranked Twice Central Guesthouse as the number one Bed and Breakfast/Inn out of 118 establishments.

I was absolutely blown away when I first stepped into the enchanting world of Twice Central. Let me tell you the story of how Harold and Ané Spies, the lovely couple who own this place, began their journey of creating a haven of comfort and beauty.

Back in 2014, they decided to open a small guest house called Twice in their family home in Stellenbosch. The response was beyond anything they could have imagined. People loved the intimate ambiance and personal attention they received from Harold and Ané. It was clear that they had tapped into something special.

With the encouragement of their long-time friends, Liesl Swart and Mandi Smit, Harold and Ané decided to take the plunge and expand. They found the perfect location in Hamman Street, a peaceful lane just off Dorp Street. After months of dedicated renovation work, Twice Central was born in November 2016.

From the moment you walk through the doors of Twice Central, you can feel the love and care that has been poured into every detail. The decor is simply exquisite, creating an atmosphere that oozes luxury and elegance. I couldn’t help but marvel at the thoughtful touches scattered throughout the property.

One of my favorite things about Twice Central is the attention to quality. You can indulge in the luxurious Africology toiletries, wrap yourself in the soft embrace of 400-thread Egyptian-cotton linen, and wake up to the aroma of fresh flowers. And if you’re a coffee lover like me, you’ll be delighted to find complimentary Nespresso coffee pods waiting for you.

Twice Central offers a range of seven rooms, each with its own unique charm. The best part? It’s incredible value for money. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a solo adventure, you’ll find the perfect space to relax and rejuvenate at Twice Central.

Even the outdoor area is designed to make your stay unforgettable. The recent addition of a plunge pool means you can take a refreshing dip during the warm summer months. And if you want to explore the surrounding area, you’ll be happy to know that bicycles are available for guests to use.

Let me just say, if you’re looking for a truly exceptional experience, I highly recommend Twice Central. Harold, Ané, Liesl, and Mandi have created a sanctuary that will transport you to a world of luxury and tranquility. It’s no wonder that they have received rave reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor. So go ahead and treat yourself to a stay at Twice Central – you’ll be glad you did.

Room tip: If you’re willing to spend a little more, go for Room 6. Trust me, it’s worth it. It’s located upstairs and has its own private external staircase. Plus, it has a balcony with an amazing view.
Price: Starting at R805 per person sharing, including breakfast. If you’re a Getaway reader, you can get a special deal for R1,300 for two, along with a Lanzerac wine-tasting voucher and a bottle of wine (valid from July to October). Just mention ‘Getaway Twice’ when you make the booking.
Contact: Call 0218877889 or visit twicecentral.co.za.

Check this out

8. 107 Dorpstraat

This charming hotel and wine bar has a modern vibe and offers eight luxurious rooms. Each room has its own unique decor and comes with a comfortable queen-size bed, a designated workstation, and soundproof triple-glazed windows. There’s also a new self-catering family room available in the block behind the main building.
Price: Starting at R950 per person sharing, including breakfast.
Contact: Visit 107dorp.co.za for more information.

9. Rozendal

If you love the idea of staying on a farm surrounded by adorable animals like pot-bellied pigs, alpacas, horses, and chickens, then this place is perfect for you. It’s a collection of 16 units situated on a hill, which makes it even more charming. You can even book the whole place for a big group gathering! One of the best things about it is the stunning view from the stoep, where you can relax and enjoy a cheese platter and bubbly while the lights of the town start to twinkle. And don’t miss out on the vinegar tasting at Rozendal, they make some amazing vinegars! The cost of staying here is R955 per person sharing, and it includes breakfast. Visit rozendal.co.za for more information.

10. Majeka House

Let me tell you about this amazing boutique property that was recognized in 2017 for its outstanding design by Condé Nast Johansens. It’s a hidden gem, managed by the owners themselves with so much dedication and style. Located in the suburbs, it offers a truly exceptional experience with its award-winning restaurant that serves incredible food.
When it comes to cost, you can stay here for as low as R1,290 per person sharing B&B, and they even have special deals for winter. If you’re interested, you can check out their website at majekahouse.co.za for more information.

11. Sugarbird Manor

Now, let me tell you about this place called Sugarbird Manor. You might have heard me talking about the beautiful views from the Helshoogte Pass, but let me tell you, the Devon Valley has some breathtaking vistas too. And Sugarbird Manor, a stunning four-star guest house located on Protea Heights farm, takes full advantage of those views. You have to stay in rooms 4, 5, 8, or 9 to truly appreciate it. And don’t forget to take a dip in their infinity pool.
The best part is, the cost is really affordable starting from R884 per person sharing B&B. Incredible, right? If you want to learn more, you can visit their website at sugarbirdmanor.co.za.

12. The Homestead at Oldenburg Vineyards

Hey there! I’ve got something amazing to share with you. There’s this incredible manor house nestled in a valley off Helshoogte Pass. Can you believe it has a mountain range right in its backyard? It’s absolutely breathtaking! And let me tell you, this place is no joke when it comes to luxury. With six beautiful bedrooms, it can accommodate up to 12 people. And here’s the best part: the rate includes canapés and bubbly upon arrival, sundowner snacks and drinks (including the estate’s own wine), and a delicious breakfast to start your day. It’s a dream come true!

Now, let’s talk numbers. The cost for eight people starts at R22,300, but keep in mind there’s a two-night minimum stay. It’s totally worth it, trust me. Oh, and if you’re interested, you can reach out to them at oldenburgvineyards.com. They’ll be more than happy to assist you!

You definitely don’t want to miss this:

• Make sure to visit SMAC Gallery on Church Street. They always have the coolest exhibitions going on.

• If you’re in the mood for some gourmet treats, head over to Creme de Levain on Dorp Street. They’ve got the yummiest waffles and homemade ice cream. Picture this: flavors like rooibos, banana bread, and butter pecan. It’s a taste bud party!

• Book lovers, listen up! Verbatim, the adorable secondhand bookstore on the corner of Dorp and Andringa streets, is waiting for you. Take your time browsing through their collection. Who knows, you might find a hidden gem!

Want to explore the beautiful town of Stellenbosch? Here are a few activities you don’t want to miss:

• Take a break and enjoy the fresh air at Jonkershoek Nature Reserve. With five hiking routes and biking trails, there’s something for everyone. If you’re new to hiking, you might want to avoid The Plumber route.

• Immerse yourself in the world of art and nature at the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden. Located on the slopes of Stellenbosch Mountain, it offers a unique and breathtaking experience.

• Witness nature’s pest control squad in action at Vergenoegd Löw Wine Estate. Indian runner ducks roam the vineyards, keeping pests at bay while providing an adorable sight.

Don’t forget to check out The 25 Best Restaurants in Stellenbosch for some culinary delights.

Don’t forget to check out The 25 Best Restaurants in Stellenbosch for some culinary delights.