The little university town of Stellenbosch is the heart of the Cape wine lands. The second oldest town in South Africa (after Cape Town), its oak tree-shaded streets are lined with old Cape Dutch and Victorian buildings. In a quiet avenue of gracious Victorian houses set in spacious gardens is the guest-house Fynbos Villa. (‘Fynbos’ is the Afrikaans word for indigenous Cape flora.) The house itself, its garden and grounds (containing a secluded swimming-pool) are a delight to the eye. Inside one is immediately struck by the spirit of tranquility and ease that pervades the suites and public rooms. Run by the same owner for over twenty years, the whole place exudes a comfort and attention to detail that makes one feel at home. And the friendliness and thoughtfulness of the staff reinforces this impression. The décor is old-fashioned country style with the emphasis on comfort and simplicity. We appreciated the spotless cleanliness of everything – as well as the ‘goodnight’ glasses of port we found by our bedside! A five-minute walk takes one into the historic heart of the town, in another direction to banks of the river that runs along its edge. Immediately opposite are the exquisite botanical gardens. We could not imagine a better place from which to enjoy the most beautiful town in South Africa.

Room Tip: Speak to the receptionist, she is very helpful!

Stayed September 2011, traveled as a couple.