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Orchard cottage pool Boschendal

Boschendal

Explore one of the oldest farms in the Winelands
The WinelandsSouth Africa· 84 Rooms · $$$

Discover one of the oldest farms in the Winelands

Stylish farm living in the heart of the Winelands

Location
Surrounded by vineyard-draped slopes, orchards and fynbos, Boschendal is set in one of the most picturesque corners of the Cape Winelands. Just outside Franschhoek, this working farm blends history, sustainability, and understated luxury across a vast estate framed by the Simonsberg mountains. It’s the kind of place where the rhythms of nature take over.

Rooms
Accommodation here is as varied as the landscape itself. From the sweeping mountain views of the 12-sleeper Mountain Villa to the historic charm of the Herbert Baker-designed Cottage 1685, each stay feels rooted in place. You’ll also find contemporary Retreat Cottages surrounded by wild fynbos, elegant Werf Garden Suites near the manor house, and stylish Orchard Cottages perfect for families or friends. Whether it’s the quiet seclusion of Cow Shed Cottage or the ease of self-catering Farmhouses, you’ll find the right space to pause and reconnect.

Amenities
What we love is the way comfort is woven into the fabric of farm life. There are shared swimming pools for warm afternoons, sun-drenched patios for peaceful mornings, and fresh air everywhere you turn. The spa offers restful treatments and there’s a curated farm shop and butchery where you can take a little of Boschendal home. Dining is a real highlight, with soil-to-fork menus served at The Werf Restaurant, seasonal picnics on the lawns, and relaxed meals at The Deli beneath the oaks.

Activities
Your will spend your days exploring the estate on guided farm tours, hikes, or by mountain bike along specially marked trails. Wine tastings take place in scenic garden settings, where you can sip award-winning vintages paired with local produce.

Families are well taken care for: kids can explore the Tree House, playground, and take part in supervised holiday programmes designed to introduce them to outdoor farm life.

Sustainability
Boschendal lives and breathes sustainability. From ethical sourcing and regenerative farming practices to eco-conscious accommodations and community partnerships, everything is done with care and intention. This is a place that doesn’t just celebrate the land — it protects it for generations to come.

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When to go to South Africa

Find out the best time to visit South Africa with our month by month guide.

  • Best
  • Good
  • Mixed
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec

January

January is the perfect time to visit the Cape — hot, dry and buzzing. Lounge on beaches or explore the Winelands and Garden Route in peak summer sun. Inland, it’s the wet season in Kruger, with bursts of heavy rain and vivid green landscapes. It's also the end of the birthing season, attracting predators and creating dramatic wildlife scenes.

February

The hottest month in Cape Town, February is ideal for alfresco lunches in the Winelands or scenic drives along the Garden Route. There are fewer tourists, perfect weather and excellent vineyard experiences. Safari regions remain hot, humid and wet, so it’s better to stick to the coast and cultural highlights at this time of year.

March

March brings settled, sunny days to Cape Town, the Winelands and Garden Route — ideal for laid-back trips and less crowded experiences. In Kruger, the lush landscape and newborn wildlife create brilliant photographic opportunities, with clear skies and dramatic colours. Rainfall eases across the country, making it a great time to combine regions.

April

April’s mild weather and lower visitor numbers make it one of the best months to explore. Cape Town is perfect for hiking Table Mountain or visiting Kirstenbosch Gardens. The Garden Route and Drakensberg are quiet and cool. In Kruger, rutting season begins — male antelope at their most impressive, sparking fierce, fascinating fights.

May

With summer crowds gone and crisp, dry days setting in, May is a peaceful time to travel. Safari viewing improves as vegetation thins in Kruger, and game becomes easier to spot. The Cape has a mix of sunny and rainy days, and the Winelands feel calm and welcoming after the peak season rush.

June

The start of winter brings cool, dry safari conditions — ideal for spotting wildlife clustered around shrinking water sources. Cape Town gets wetter, though days can still be bright. Whale watching begins along the Western Cape, while the Drakensberg is a dream for hikers enjoying fresh air and peaceful trails. Comrades Marathon adds sporting buzz to KwaZulu Natal.

July

July is peak whale watching around Hermanus and Plettenberg Bay, with whales close to shore to calve. It’s also the best time for safaris — cool, dry and clear. Kruger’s wildlife gathers at waterholes, and sightings are exceptional. Cape Town remains cool and drizzly, but it’s a quiet, rewarding time for active or cultural trips.

August

Spring starts to show as wildflowers carpet the West Coast and Namaqualand in vibrant colour — a true spectacle. Game viewing is still strong in Kruger, and whales continue to visit the Cape’s coastline. Temperatures begin rising after winter’s chill, and clear skies return, making this a great time to combine coast, culture and safari.

September

September is superb for combining experiences — wildlife viewing is excellent in Kruger and Madikwe, while whales are frequently seen along the southern coast. Spring flowers are still blooming, and warmer temperatures make outdoor exploration more inviting. In the Drakensberg, snow-capped peaks linger as trails begin to warm up for hiking.

October

October is one of the best all-round months to visit. Cape Town and the Winelands are warming up, with long sunny days and few crowds. Safari conditions remain strong in Kruger and KwaZulu Natal, and the beaches are heating up. Whether you want wildlife, wine or coastline, it’s hard to go wrong this month.

November

Cape Town soaks up the early summer sun, with calm days ideal for exploring. It’s the last chance to see southern right whales before they head off. Inland, the rains return to Kruger and KwaZulu Natal, but afternoon storms are spectacular and short-lived. Visitor numbers increase as the festive season nears — book early.

December

December buzzes with summer energy. The first two weeks are a sweet spot — great weather and fewer crowds. Later in the month, it’s peak holiday season across the country. In Kruger, landscapes burst into colour with flame lilies and baby animals. Book early for Christmas trips — this is one of the most popular times to visit.

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