After spending the festive period in Cape Town, The Luxury Travel Book team are missing the blue skies, sunshine, and the more relaxed pace of life which comes with Southern Hemisphere living. Travelling before Christmas – just after restrictions had been lifted for travel to the South African city – the welcome for visitors arriving at the airport was very friendly, as it was in every restaurant and winery we visited.

The standard of cuisine in Cape Town certainly lives up to its reputation for creative, delicious and beautifully presented dishes, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from – from casual dining to top gourmet experiences. The Cape Town restaurants featured in this article have all been personally tried and tested by our director, Jamie, who is currently a resident in the city. The rest of us were lucky enough to join him to experience many of these during our stay!

Recommended Villa: The One Above Penthouse(4 bedrooms; 8 guests)

This beautiful penthouse apartment on the V&A Waterfront is conveniently located near some of the best shopping, art, culture and restaurants. The One Above also benefits from uninterrupted views of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Cape Town Harbour.

Clifton

Recommended Restaurant: The Bungalow

Situated in the heart of Clifton, a chic neighbourhood located on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, The Bungalow benefits from beautiful sunset views of the sea and the Twelve Apostles Mountain range. Seafood is top of the menu here, both for starters and main course, with a separate sushi menu available, too. Not a fish fan? You’ll be pleased to hear that this stunning eatery is also known for its steaks.

Recommended Villa: Clifton Second Beach(3 bedrooms; 6 guests)  

This villa is built on the rocks with direct access to popular Second Beach. The accommodation is set across two floors, with the living area and downstairs second bedroom opening out onto the pool terrace, which also benefits from wonderful sunset views. Upstairs is another terrace with outdoor dining area and gas braai.

Llandudno Beach

Recommended Restaurants: Tintswalo Atlantic

At the foot of the Chapman’s Peak Drive mountain, Tintswalo Atlantic restaurant is in a perfect position to enjoy splendid Atlantic Ocean views. Part of a boutique hotel, the menu here is based on marine produce, and served as four tapas-style courses. Quality is everything, with ingredients sourced from a selection of small, sustainable local suppliers.

Recommended Villa: Llandudno Views(5 bedrooms; 10 guests)

Located just an 18 km scenic drive from the city centre, Llandudno sits in a peaceful cove offering one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Town. This luxury villa to rent occupies a wonderful location, boasting views over Llandudno beach. As well as being sunset-facing, it’s also just a short walk to the beautiful, white sandy beach below. The perfect villa for those looking to enjoy long evenings with family and friends, there are two dining tables, both inside and outside, as well as a barbecue, pizza oven and fully equipped bar.

Recommended Local Activity: Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden  

Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden is situated a 12-minute drive south of the pretty town of Stellenbosch, which boasts Dutch colonial houses and streets shaded with trees. The garden sits at the base of the Stellenbosch mountains, which are also used as a backdrop for over 60 magnificent bronze sculptures. The garden has been arranged deliberately to enhance the idea of wildness – both with its stark mountain backdrop, and the local wild fynbos vegetation covering the ground.

Cape Winelands - Franschhoek

Recommended Restaurant: Babylonstoren

One of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, which dates back to 1692, Babylonstoren is situated in the Franschhoek wine valley and offers a great selection of food and wine experiences, ranging from its fruit and vegetable garden to its wonderful Babel Restaurant. For those who enjoy walks, the large garden here has over 3 kms of paths, and there’s also a daily guided garden tour. At the rear of the garden, amidst oak trees, the Greenhouse offers guests refreshments and picnic-style food. It can also be booked for a group for dinner. Wine tasting can be arranged in a special room with floor to ceiling windows, offering beautiful views. Other experiences include a Spice House filled with aromatic herbs, and a bakery with fresh bread. Picnics can also be arranged for visitors.

Cape Winelands - Constantia

Recommended Restaurant: La Colombe

This charming restaurant offers a fusion of contemporary and Asian dishes and is one of the most impressive and imaginative meals I’ve ever had! No wonder it’s regularly named the best restaurant in Africa and has won a clutch of awards. Be sure to book well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Recommended Villa: The Owner’s Villa

Situated 10 kms from Stellenbosch, on a renowned wine estate that comprises 20 hectares of vineyards planted with Bordeaux reds and Chardonnay grapes, this sensational villa benefits from wonderful views across the Stellenbosch Valley, to the impressive mountain range. The outstanding fully serviced villa, owned by Laurence Graff, features original artworks by some of Africa’s most celebrated artists, as well as home theatre facilities, a complimentary mini bar, private gym, and a wine cellar. In the garden, you’ll find a heated swimming pool and jacuzzi, and guests benefit from views of the glorious sunsets over the Estate’s vineyards and mountains, throughout the villa itself.