Hotel Snapshot
Spier Wine Farm sets the scene for long lunches, wine tasting, and poolside reprieve, framed by Cape Town’s magnificent mountains and meandering vineyards. Despite being one of the oldest wineries in South Africa, the Cape stalwart recently underwent a purposeful downsizing and transformation. This year, it emerged as a considered boutique hotel with an unfaltering regenerative ethos, signaling a new era for the family-owned wine farm and delighting locals and guests alike.
Design & Character
With a history dating back to 1692, Spier Wine Farm is a study in heritage and rebirth. With its Cape Dutch architectural bones intact – thatched roofs, gables, white-washed walls, shuttered windows, and bell towers – the much-loved hotel remains distinctly South African while gracefully embracing a contemporary Cape farmhouse aesthetic. The coveted hotel feels warm and deeply inviting. There are even subtle Mediterranean hints, thanks to its generous arches and terracotta-tiled interiors. Inside, spaces are light and airy, layered with artisanal textiles and local character. The property is home to South Africa’s largest private art collection, which you will find tastefully scattered throughout the cozy bar, restaurant and out among sprawling gardens.
The Rooms
Located just a short amble from the heart of the hotel, you’ll find the 80 rooms and suites in a charming village-style layout. Interiors feature a serene color palette and curated art alongside heritage accents, designed to flow onto Juliet balconies, sun-dappled patios or gardens. Two recently unveiled exclusive-use villas sleep six across three bedrooms. Each villa boasts a private pool, an idyllic outdoor entertaining area, plus there’s a dedicated service team and a private chef.
The Food & Drink Situation
On the wine front, Stellenbosch is prized for its bold reds and terroir-rich varietals. Don’t miss sampling Farmer Angus’ organic wine or one of the property’s many award-winning wines, like Creative Block 2, a Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon blend with citrus and fynbos notes, best enjoyed in the sun, gazing over rugged mountains.
While wine sits at the heart of Spier, the farm's regenerative farming philosophy underpins its food experience too. And the proof is in pasture-raised produce and organic ingredients. Veld is a celebration of seasonal, local ingredients and South African culture, while the Garden Room serves wholesome farm-harvested produce for breakfast and lunch. Try the Jonkershuis shakalaka or the creamy mealiepap to sample South African flavors. On the property, there’s Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery, and the restored Spier Manor, which serves as an intimate destination for private dining and events.
Amenities
To dabble in farm life, there’s a scenic segway tour of the vineyards, a food garden for gathering seasonal produce, wine tasting and plenty of grass to picnic on. For families, there’s the adventurous Elemental Garden with water play and the Buzz Club, possibly the chicest kids' club on the planet. There’s no doubt that the bar will lure you poolside when the weather permits, as will the Rooftop bar and fire pit for cozy evenings come winter. The art inclined can join the art tour for a leisurely walk and talk past the farm’s private Spier Art Collection. For those pursuing wellness, there’s a movement studio overlooking serene gardens and a dreamy spa.
Spa & Wellness Scoop
The pièce de resistance is undoubtedly the Spa, an apothecary-inspired sanctuary for holistic wellness. Here, you’ll find the Cape Herbal Bathhouse, which offers private bathing rituals for just two people, alongside a whimsical treatment menu that boasts indigenous botanicals and hand-blended scrub – think rooibos, gotu kola, and Cape rose. Post-treatment, there’s a secluded pool and garden for languishing.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
Spier Wine Farm is roughly 40km from Cape Town’s urban sprawl. From here, you can explore the renowned Stellenbosch and Franschhoek winelands. There is no shortage of wineries, cellar doors and restaurants with stunning mountain vistas. Try Mertia for edible art and local wine pairings. Closer to Cape Town, you can’t miss ascending Table Mountain or hiking Lion’s Head for sunset. In summer, Clifton Beach is worth the drive.
Fast Facts
Location: Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands, South Africa
Vibe: Chic Cape Farmhouse with elegant interiors and down-to-earth hospitality
Rating: Five Star
Pricing: From USD 437 per night
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: There’s a vein of integrity that’s evident in both the people and the place. Here, award-winning wines are paired with honest, wholesome food surrounded by beauty – both manmade and natural.
Dining: The Wine Cellar, Veld, the Garden Room, the Picnickery, Vadas Smokehouse & Bakery, Bubbles & Braai, a riverside pop-up that serves South African food cooked over the fire.
Amenities: Spa, Cape Herbal Bathhouse, pool, Elemental Garden, the Rooftop Bar, the Buzz Club,
Nearby Attractions: Stellenbosch Town, Babylonstoren, The Franschhoek Wine Tram, Table Mountain, Lion’s Head
Airport: Cape Town International Airport (30 minutes)
