South Africa is dotted with hotels that do more than just offer a bed for the night—they tell stories. From Cape Dutch estates to Victorian-era inns, these heritage hotels let you sleep in the past without sacrificing modern comfort. Here are seven iconic stays that every traveller should experience at least once.
1. Lord Milner Hotel, Matjiesfontein, Western Cape
Matjiesfontein Lord Milner Hotel/Tottelme/Wikimedia Commons
Nestled in the Karoo village of Matjiesfontein, the Lord Milner Hotel dates back to 1899 and is named after Lord Alfred Milner. The village itself is a National Heritage Site, with the hotel acting as its beating heart. Inside, Victorian décor, antique furniture, and a grand dining room transport guests to the early 20th century. Enjoy museum tours, leisurely walks through the preserved village, or a ride on a vintage red London bus. Dining here features Karoo lamb and springbok, making every meal a taste of local heritage.
2. Oude Werf Hotel, Stellenbosch, Western Cape
Claiming the title of South Africa’s oldest continuously running hotel, Oude Werf sits on Church Street in Stellenbosch, the site of the country’s first church. Established in 1802, its Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture creates a unique blend of history and comfort. Guests can explore vine-covered courtyards and historic foundations while enjoying modern amenities. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability, including Fair Trade Tourism practices, ensures a stay that’s both responsible and luxurious.
3. Drostdy Hotel, Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape
Built in the early 1800s by architect Louis Michel Thibault, the Drostdy Hotel combines Cape Dutch and Victorian aesthetics in a carefully restored property. Originally a magistrate’s court and private home, it now offers 45+ luxurious rooms, landscaped gardens, and fine dining. Graaff-Reinet itself boasts over 200 heritage sites, making a stay at the Drostdy a perfect gateway into South African history.
4. Pig & Whistle Inn, Bathurst, Eastern Cape
Pig & Whistle Inn/A3alb/Wikimedia Commons
Dating back to 1832, the Pig & Whistle Inn is recognized as the oldest continuously licensed pub in South Africa. Some rooms preserve early 19th-century features, offering a genuine frontier-era experience. Guests can enjoy hearty English-style meals in the historic pub while soaking in stories of the region’s past. This inn is a true step back in time, combining rustic charm with authentic heritage.
5. Royal Hotel, Riebeek-Kasteel, Western Cape
Royal Hotel, Riebeek-Kasteel/Morné van Rooyen, Attribution, via Wikimedia Commons
Established in 1862, the Royal Hotel in Riebeek-Kasteel is the oldest licensed hotel in the Western Cape. Victorian-colonial architecture and the long arched stoep—a veranda added in 1929—give this hotel its signature charm. Historical guests have included Prime Ministers Jan Smuts and DF Malan. The surrounding Swartland vineyards and small-town atmosphere make it a serene retreat off the beaten path.
6. Royal Hotel, Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga
Royal Hotel, Pilgrim’s Rest/Ossewa/Wikimedia Commons
If your travels take you to Mpumalanga, the Royal Hotel in Pilgrim’s Rest offers a Victorian gold-rush experience. Built in 1894, the hotel preserves original style elements like brass bedsteads and claw-foot baths. Guests experience the history of the gold-mining village while enjoying modern comforts, making it a living museum stay amidst mountainous scenery.
7. Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town, Western Cape
Entrance to Mount Nelson Hotel/Pavel Špindler/Wikimedia Commons
Rounding out the list, the Mount Nelson Hotel is a Cape Town classic that blends colonial charm with modern luxury. Opened in 1899, its pink façade, elegant gardens, and historic interiors have hosted celebrities, dignitaries, and explorers alike. Afternoon tea under jacaranda trees, spa treatments, and sweeping views of Table Mountain make it a timeless heritage escape in the heart of the city.
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