The best South African villas for winter sun

With the clocks having gone back and sunshine hours dwindling with each passing day, it’s no wonder that people are craving an escape from the long dark nights and frosty starts. For those looking to beat the winter blues, South Africa offers an escape to warmer climes, and a chance to enjoy the sun-soaked sand and blue skies all year round.

High-end villa specialist, The Luxury Travel Book has a whole host of stunning villas and apartments to rent in this fascinating country, be it in the city of Cape Town, near the V&A Waterfront or right by the beach in Clifton, Bakoven Bay, Camps Bay and Glen Beach for example. Here, we take a look at four of the best:

Nettleton Ridge, Cape Town

On the slopes of Lion’s Head and perched above Clifton’s sandy coves, is Nettleton Ridge, designed by Peerutin Karol and one of the most exclusive residential areas in Cape Town. This luxury rental property is as extraordinary, as its alluring setting near Cape Town’s best beach destination. Spread out over 4 levels that are connected with glass floors, a spiral staircase and 2 lifts this luxury villa rental has a home theatre and relaxation pavilion, as well as an extensive home spa with indoor heated swimming pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi.

Its entertainment areas are aplenty, separated by rock formations, making this luxury villa rental quite unique. Dine al fresco from the long dining table, sleek kitchen-cum-bar area with a behind-the-scenes prep kitchen which flows onto the lawn, including an outdoor barbecue area and pavilion with sunken bar. The infinity pool and sun loungers are the perfect place to admire the views of the sea while on holiday or retreat to the digital-games set-up and large open-plan living area with uninterrupted ocean views. On the lower level you will find the heated indoor spa pool, garage and office space. 

For more information, click here.

Villa Kloof Nek, Cape Town

This four-bedroom luxury villa rental has spectacular views of Table Mountain and Table Bay and is ideally set at the foot of Lion’s Head in Cape Town. The warm wood-panelled interior embodies luxury contemporary design while nature sits as the perfect backdrop during the day and after sunset the Cape Town city lights sparkle in the distance at night.

Boasting a fully equipped kitchen with breakfast bar and alfresco dining area, as well as an infinity plunge pool with sun loungers and barbecue offering loads of options to rest while on holiday at this luxury villa rental. Alternatively recline for a quiet evening in front of the fireplace or cosy up in the cinema room while on holiday. An elevator makes moving between levels seamless. There are 4 luxury en-suite bedrooms in this villa rental, all with showers and baths as well as heated towel rails.

For more information, click here.

Villa Ombre, Cape Town

This luxury villa rental dates back to circa 1890 and is nestled on the boutique winery of St Leger in Constantia, Cape Town. A luxury rental property steeped in heritage with beautiful features such as its original Oregon pine flooring, high ceilings with wooden cross beams and cosy fireplaces make it a beautiful holiday home. The immaculate outdoor spaces include a pool, rose gardens, fig trees, water features and Mountain views, not to mention the private vineyards and full micro-winery complete with wine cellar, tasting table and barrels of wine, an absolute must for wine lovers while on holiday.

Alternatively cook a meal in the fully equipped kitchen with a dining table that seats 10 guests, or relax and enjoy the rolling lawn views from the large porch of this luxury villa rental. There are many outdoor spaces to enjoy the ample nature, otherwise retreat to a corner of the study or library. There is plenty to do for children both outside and indoors, especially the family and cinema rooms.

For more information, click here.

Two Rivers Farm House Manor, Cape Winelands

This luxury rental property is set on a spectacular estate like no other in the heart of the majestic Franschhoek wine valley, surrounded by panoramic views of the Franschhoek mountains. Unwind in the lounge or outside by the pool after a day of activities, this luxury Manor House rental is idyllically positioned at the heart of the estate offering a tranquil sanctuary.  An unrivalled getaway in the Cape Winelands at the confluence of two rivers and a waterfall on over 500 hectares of pristine Franschhoek Valley landscape, stroll through the estate by foot admiring the thousands of fruit trees, olive groves, Shiraz vineyard, maybe spot the 2 resident springbok.

A secluded river deck, mini private island off the dam and a hideaway boma area are a few of the things you’ll discover along your wanderings. While on holiday enjoy river kayaking, tubing and bike trails will provide loads of adventure whilst the Olympic training pool immersed in the free-flowing freshwater dam, a rugby field and 400m running track will ensure athletes stay on target with fitness goals while on holiday. A delicious breakfast is served daily, with a butler on call and the option of a private chef to prepare additional gourmet meals on request ensuring a truly memorable stay while on holiday at this luxury rental. 

For more information, click here.

Overberg Grootbos Residence, Cape Town

This luxury 6 bedroom villa is understated opulence, quietly remote and expertly equipped in a breathtaking location. Encompassing the vastness of the surrounding environment of Walker Bay, yet offering a discreet sense of peace. It boasts a fully-equipped private kitchen furnished with state-of-the-art appliances. A private swimming pool for lazy days while on holiday in South Africa. It has spacious living areas, two lounges, 3 barbeque areas and a breakfast nook, ideal for holiday. For those looking to keep fit, there is a fully-functional personal gym. Families can enjoy the personal cinema and media room with a large screen and projector on quieter days on holiday.

Other features of this luxury villa rental include a private wine cellar stocked with celebrated world-class South African wines, an impressive local art collection and a private air strip for small planes and helicopters. This South African luxury villa rental offers exceptional personal service from a dedicated team of highly trained staff members, including a personal chef and wine steward, ensuring that each meal is a memorable culinary experience, served when and where you desire. With a private guide and access to a private vehicle, guests can enjoy the vast variety of activities curated especially for them. 

For more information, click here.