South Africa is steeped in history and with that comes a variety of places to stay with a story of their own.
Take a trip back in time and visit one of these 15 old world, historic hotels, some of which have been modernly refurbished and each with an interesting history and the charm of a bygone era.
Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel
With breathaking views on the lower slopes of Table Mountain and ideally located for business or leisure guests, this magnificent Cape Town hotel offers luxurious suites, leisure facilities and divine restaurants.
Did you know? This hotel opened its doors in 1899 prior to the eruption of the South African War and was a popular meeting place for the elite.
Franschhoek Country House
The stylish rooms at this Franschhoek hotel offer magical views of the surrounding mountains and the vineyards. Guests can indulge at the top notch restaurant, stretch out alongside the pool or curl up in the guest lounge in front of the fireplace.
Did you know? This beautifully restored manor house was once a former perfumery dating back to 1890.
Cathedral Peak Hotel
Enjoy fresh mountain air and a breathtakingly beautiful setting. This glorious Drakensberg hotel has an elegant dining room, late night bar, a heated swimming pool and manicured lawns … what more could you want for a romantic break away.
Did you know? The hotel was, at first, used as a recuperating site for troops in World War 2.
Turbine Hotel & Spa
This 5 star boutique hotel in Knysna is surrounded by water on three sides. The hotel has a rim flow pool with a view of the canal, a tapas bar, an a la carte restaurant and a selection of individually themed suites.
Did you know? The hotel was originally built as a power station in 1939 and supplied electricity to the surrounding area by burning wood waste from the Knysna Forest timber trade.
Kearsney Manor
With colonial English decor, the beautifully appointed rooms are designed for comfort. Guests enjoy meals overlooking the gardens, there is a pub lounge with a TV and a peaceful reading lounge with an original Royal Dalton fireplace.
Did you know? Sir Liege Hulett built the manor in the late 1800’s on a sugar estate. This old colonial estate once housed the original Kearsney college and is recognised as a heritage site.
The Kimberley Club
The four star boutique hotel in Kimberley has played host to a number of legendary figures and offers its guests luxury accommodation. There is a fine dining restaurant with an exquisite compilation of culinary dishes and a more casual dining approach in the trendy cafe on the front porch of the hotel.
Did you know? Cecil John Rhodes founded the hotel in 1881. A number of significant decisions were made here regarding the diamond industry.
Tudor Hotel
The Tudor Hotel is much more than just a place to stay – it’s an experience. The rooms each have their own unique style and the scrumptious English breakfast buffet is pure indulgence.
Did you know? This is the oldest hotel in Cape Town.
Dullstroom Inn
Enjoy country style rooms and warm hospitality at this delightful hotel in Dullstroom. Sit near the log fire and play board games or sink your teeth into a home cooked meal after a day of site seeing.
Did you know? The Dullstroom Inn opened in 1912 and is the oldest hotel in this quaint town.
Dutch Manor Antique Hotel
This stately Cape Town hotel has been lovingly restored and has individually styled rooms where you can sleep on a 19th century four-poster Stinkwood bed. With everything as original as possible and added modern amenities, this Dutch manor allows you to enjoy a unique experience.
Did you know? Built in 1812, this hotel is the first registered antique hotel in Cape Town and is a national monument.
Jan Harmsgat Country House
Fine food is an integral part of your visit, along with understated elegant rooms, all set amongst rolling fruit and nut orchards. The old wine cellar is now home to the dining area, lounge and library and is a great place to unwind.
Did you know? The original slave quarters and wine cellar from around 1723, lie at the heart of this delightful oasis.
Houw Hoek Hotel
This grand hotel in a tranquil spot, with its two swimming pools, lovely rooms and outstanding service make for an enjoyable stay. Our restaurant serves delicious meals and the hotel has one of the oldest licensed bars in the country.
Did you know? This is one of the oldest hotels in South Africa with history tracing back to 1779.
The Lord Milner Hotel
The hotel has a selection of gorgeously decorated accommodation options to suit your needs, a grand dining area serving mouthwatering meals, guest lounges with fireplaces and old fashioned karoo hospitality.
Did you know? The hotel was founded in 1884 and then completed in 1899. It was named after the Lord Alfred Milner, governor of the Cape during the Anglo-Boer War, after which it served as the headquarters of the Cape Western command.
Cape Heritage Hotel
With direct access to the vibrant streets of Cape Town, this perfectly located hotel is an ideal choice for discerning travellers. The rooms are stunning, each with their own character and the guest lounge is a cosy retreat after a long day.
Did you know? The hotel is built around a central courtyard, where you will find the oldest fruit bearing grapevine that was planted in 1781.
The Historic Pig and Whistle Inn
There are beautifully resorted rooms with wonderful antiques and traditional old fashioned rooms, all offering travellers a comfortable place to stay. Relax in the garden with the rabbits or enjoy a drink in our old stone walled pub.
Did you know? The hotel was established in January 1832, and became known as “Hartley’s Inn”. Several prominent settlers stayed at the Inn including Lord Charles Somerset. In World War 2, the Inn was frequented by the air force men who were stationed at 43 Air School, close to Port Alfred.
Queen’s Hotel
Unwind in the manicured gardens or at the pool side on the days you are not busy exploring the many attractions in Oudtshoorn. The unrivalled hospitality, sensational meals and colonial elegance are the cherries on top.
Did you know? Finished in 1880, this grand dame claimed to be the third oldest accommodation in South Africa.
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