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Last updated: 29 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Fionn Davenport

A five-star retreat in the heart of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, the Arabella Hotel is located in one of the world’s richest plant kingdoms and surrounded by lagoons, a nature reserve and mountains.

Every room comes with breathtaking views across the shimmering lagoon or lushly-wooded mountains; there’s a feeling of infinite space and peace that’s wonderfully relaxing.

Alongside the gorgeous, coastal golf course, there’s a world-class spa, horse-back riding along the beach, and some of the best restaurants on the whole of the Garden Route.

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Key facilities

Airport transfers*
Beach: None
Fitness centre
Fitness classes
Golf course
Hot tub
Kids club
Parking: On-site (free)
Pool (adults only)
Pool (indoor)
Pool (outdoor)
Pool (kids)
Spa
Tennis courts
WiFi: Free
Yoga

Food & drink

All inclusive
Kids menu
Restaurant on-site
Self catering
*
Additional charge

Room types

Apartments
Bedrooms
Cabins
Suites
Tents
Villas
Yurts

Room facilities

Air conditioning
Flat screen TV
Jacuzzi (private)
Pool (private)
Tea & coffee making facilities
WiFi

Bedding options

2+ bedrooms
3+ beds
Connecting rooms
Rollaway/sofa bed

Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

A day in Franschhoek

Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa[49.3 miles]

The ‘French Corner’ of the Cape Winelands is a bucket list destination for bacchanalian adventures.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

Website >
Overview >

Stellenbosch Wine Region

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa[50.2 miles]

One of the world’s greatest wine regions, home to more than 150 wineries producing numerous world-class wines, gorgeous Cape Dutch architecture, superb restaurants and top-notch art galleries.

Best for ages: 6+ | Free

Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first

Distant view of people whale watching during the daytime
Experience

Hermanus Whale-Watching Festival

Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa[15.1 miles]

Held in late September/early October each year – the peak season for whale watching – this usually sleepy-town is host to a colourful festival of art, adventure and fine food across a festive long weekend.

Best for ages: 4+ | Free | One weekend

Website >
Overview >
Babylonstoren’s Gardens
Experience

Babylonstoren’s Gardens

Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa[50.1 miles]

Gardeners and food-to-table devotees would love the 8 acres of bountiful gardens at Babylonstoren, one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms. They offer daily walking tours guided by the estate horticulturists. There’s also an excellent on-site restaurant, and an elegant farm shop that sells local foods and homewares.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

Website >
Overview >
A yellow Jaguar D-Type vintage racing car on display at the Franschhoek motor museum.
Experience

Franschhoek Motor Museum

Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa[50.1 miles]

Showcasing over 200 classic cars from the Rupert family’s private collection, petrolheads can delve into a century of motoring history, from South Africa’s first Model T Ford to the rare Ferrari Enzo. It’s open daily, but you must book an appointment via the website before you go. You can also book a ride in a classic car.

Best for ages: 4+ | £5

Website >
Overview >
Rickety Bridge Winery a tourist tram ride between vineyards in the Franschhoek Valley Western Cape Southern Africa
Experience

Franschhoek Wine Tram

Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa[52.5 miles]

This scenic hop-on hop-off tram operates on eight routes connecting 24 wine estates in the Franschhoek Valley. It’s a charismatically convenient way to get around, and you can stop at your own pace for wine tastings, vineyard walks and cellar tours. The routes begin/end at the Franschhoek Terminal and the Groot Drakenstein Terminal. Kids allowed.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

Website >
Overview >

Round-ups that include this placetostay