2 Best Hotels in Paarl, The Western Cape and Winelands

Set on a 500-acre working farm that is among the oldest on the Cape, Babylonstoren is a bucolic lodging with a dozen lovingly renovated thatched-roof cottages gazing up at the dramatic Drakenstein Mountains. They overlook lush fruit and vegetable gardens containing more than 300 types of produce. The Farmhouse has nine suites centered around a courtyard with a glimmering swimming pool, sauna, and salt room. Other than the bright and delightful rooms, there's a multitude of perks to staying here: guests can join in activities like bread baking and wine tasting. This gorgeous oasis will both delight and restore. Note that there's a minimum two-night stay.

In a gorgeous Cape Dutch manor house that dates from the mid-18th century, the hotel sits amid acres of vines beneath Paarl Rock, overlooking the Drakenstein Mountains. Suites are either in the nicely renovated stables and other historic structures or in attractive newer buildings constructed in traditional Cape Dutch style. Rooms are a tasteful mix of modern and antique: reed ceilings and thatch comfortably coexist with heated towel racks and other creature comforts. As you might expect, there is also an excellent restaurant on the premises.