SA’s coolest old hotels you’ve (likely) never heard of

When thinking of South Africa’s most iconic hotels, grand names like the Mount Nelson in Cape Town or the Oyster Box in Umhlanga usually take the spotlight. But beyond the big names lie lesser-known gems—charming old hotels scattered across the country.

Some are slightly faded, others lovingly restored, but all are steeped in character. Here’s a selection of SA’s coolest old hotels you’ve (likely) never heard of—and might just want to check into.

Lord Milner Hotel – Matjiesfontein (Western Cape)

Frozen in time since the late 1800s, the Lord Milner Hotel is the crown jewel of the one-street town of Matjiesfontein. Built in 1899, the hotel played host to British officers during the Anglo-Boer War and retains a distinct Victorian air, with red carpets, high-backed chairs and period fittings throughout. The whole town is a declared national monument, and staying here feels like stepping into a sepia-toned postcard. Don’t miss the quirky museum and the famed “Red Bus Tour” hosted by Johnny, the town’s one-man show.

Royal Hotel – Bethulie (Free State)

Picture/Johan du P via Tripadvisor

In the sleepy Free State town of Bethulie, the Royal Hotel is part guesthouse, part museum, and part record store. Owner Anthony Hocking has filled the hotel’s common areas with thousands of vinyl records, books, and film posters. The aesthetic is pure Wes Anderson—think mismatched furniture, nostalgic colour palettes, and cinematic charm. It’s off the beaten path, but for those who love quirky comfort and a rich backstory, this one’s a hidden treasure.

Houw Hoek Hotel – Elgin/Overberg (Western Cape)

Picture/Houw Hoek Hotel

Dating back to 1779, Houw Hoek is South Africa’s oldest licensed hotel. Nestled in the Kogelberg mountains between Grabouw and Botrivier, it offers a peaceful escape into apple orchard country. The hotel has evolved over the centuries but retains its rustic stone walls, wood-burning fireplaces, and old-world atmosphere. It’s perfect for families or couples wanting to unwind somewhere with a story to tell.

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Piggs Peak Hotel – eSwatini (near Mpumalanga border)

Picture/Travel Weekly

While not technically within South Africa’s borders, the Piggs Peak Hotel in eSwatini is just close enough to count—and its retro mountain setting makes it a classic stop for South African road trippers. This 1950s-era hotel has the bones of a grand mid-century casino lodge, complete with wide terraces and sweeping views of the surrounding forested hills. There’s a quiet glamour to the place, and while it’s not as polished as it once was, its charm remains.

The Drostdy Hotel – Graaff-Reinet (Eastern Cape)

Picture/Graaff Reinet Tourism

An icon in the Karoo town of Graaff-Reinet, the Drostdy Hotel is a beautifully preserved piece of history. Originally built in the 1800s and now tastefully refurbished, it retains its Cape Dutch aesthetic with whitewashed walls, gables, and lush courtyards. The surrounding streets are just as historic, lined with heritage homes and antique shops. Staying here is like walking through a living museum—but with the comforts of a boutique stay.

Wakkerstroom Hotel – Mpumalanga

Picture/Wakkerstroom Hotel

Wakkerstroom is one of those small towns that never rushes, and its hotel reflects that pace perfectly. This family-run spot oozes old-fashioned hospitality, with antique decor, comfy armchairs, and hearty pub fare. It’s a favourite among birders and weekenders who come for the stillness of the surrounding wetlands.

The Royal Hotel – Riebeek Kasteel (Western Cape)

Picture/Royal Hotel Riebeek Kasteel

With its wraparound verandas and grand colonial facade, the Royal Hotel in Riebeek Kasteel feels like something from another era. Dating back to the 1800s, it claims to be one of the oldest licensed hotels in the Western Cape. Inside, vintage chandeliers, Persian rugs and clawfoot tubs set the tone for a stay that’s both elegant and relaxed.

Kimberley Club Boutique Hotel – Northern Cape

Picture via Booking.com

Once the domain of diamond magnates and British aristocrats, the Kimberley Club is a fascinating slice of South African colonial history. Cecil John Rhodes was a regular, and the bar still holds whispers of those cigar-smoke-filled days. Today, it operates as a boutique hotel, its interiors boasting polished wood, brass detailing and portraits of long-departed elites.

Karoo Art Hotel – Barrydale (Western Cape)

Picture/Barrydale.co.za

Though not as old as some on this list, the Karoo Art Hotel earns its place with buckets of character and heritage charm. Set in a restored 19th-century building, the hotel embraces local art and creativity in every room. Barrydale itself is a little gem on Route 62, and this hotel is its beating heart.

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