B&B has a completely different meaning when applied to guesthouses in South Africa as these small, often owner-run, establishments, offer a high standard of accommodation and service at reasonable rates. Boutique guesthouses fill the gap between a simple B&B and the larger hotels, being able to provide more facilities such as swimming pools and a la carte dining. Game lodges and camps have a degree of sophistication which often amazes guests. The surreal combination of spending days in the African bush, combined with superb accommodation, a private plunge pool on your deck, and cuisine to compete with the best restaurants, will make your stay forever memorable.

Cape Grace, Cape Town If you would like to be in the heart of the vibrant waterfront area of Cape Town, the Cape Grace is a perfect choice. This luxury hotel is located on its own promontory on the West Quay, facing Table Mountain and within a few minutes walk to the Waterfront restaurants and shops. The hotel is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World.

Kensington Place, Cape Town This stylish boutique hotel is in one of Cape Town’s most prestigious residential areas, and within a few minutes drive of the Waterfront. Contemporary in style, with attention paid to every last detail, the service you will receive is second to none. Lunch and dinner is available at any time to suit guests, and there is a small pool and deck where you can relax between sight-seeing sprees!.

Colona Castle, Cape Town Built on a grand scale as a turreted castle, Colona Castle is a luxury guesthouse in the “lake district” area of Cape Town, on the False Bay coast. Décor is eclectic, rich and funky, but essentially supremely comfortable. You will be made to feel very much at home here as it is owner-run by Michael and Nicole Brand, who are fantastic hosts.

Beaumont House, Cape Town This boutique guest lodge, in one of Cape Town's exclusive suburbs, is within easy reach of the Waterfront and classy restaurants. The house has been completely renovated to create 5 individual air-conditioned suites furnished with antiques, combined with contemporary items. The extensive pool deck is the perfect place to relax. Wi-fi access, underfloor heating and many more thoughtful additions make this owner-run property top notch.

Tintswalo Atlantic Lodge, Hout Bay, Cape Town Tintswalo Atlantic is a stunning boutique hotel situated within an unspoilt wilderness on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by seaside boulders and ethereal milkwood trees. This chic lodge has 10 luxury suites and a Presidential suite, with breathtaking views across the bay. Guests can try their hand at creating dishes in the interactive kitchen, guided by the Executive Chef, or just enjoy the breathtaking views of the sea and mountains from the deck, with its heated Jacuzzi pool. A courtesy vehicle will take guests to local restaurants in Hout Bay, as well as to Cape Town and the V&A Waterfront.

Ten Bompas, Johannesburg Ten Bompas is an intimate, luxurious "home away from home" close to Sandton and Rosebank. Each of the 10 suites has a separate lounge and bedroom, a fireplace, guest toilet, steam bath and access to the outdoors via a ground floor patio or a balcony. “Sides” , the hotel's award winning restaurant with its own double volume, glass fronted wine cellar is the “in” place to eat. Outdoor patios, garden and pool allow guests to make the most of any free time.

Birkenhead House, Hermanus This strikingly designed boutique hotel is part of the Royal Portfolio’s properties, and adheres to the high standard Liz Biden has set for her lodges. Perched atop a craggy cliff, with amazing views across the Indian Ocean, between June and November this is the perfect place to watch Southern Right Whales. Each room is individually designed, with huge bathrooms, slipper baths and chunky soft towels. Food and service are extraordinarily good.

Blue Gum Country Estate, Stanford Blue Gum Country Estate is located in Stanford, 20 minutes from Hermanus, and is owner-run by Nic and Nicole Dupper. There are 11 suites, furnished in English country style, with sunny patios for summer days, and cosy fireplaces for winter evenings. Whale watching, mountain biking and canoeing are just a few of the things to do here. Enjoying Nicole’s wonderful cuisine is high on the list too.

Grootbos Nature Reserve, Hermanus Grootbos is a nature lover’s paradise, set in Milkwood forests, offering an insight into the Cape’s fascinating flora and marine life. Accommodation is spacious and extremely comfortable, but the most lasting memories you will take from here will be the experience. Dedicated conservationists accompany guests on botanical tours, 4x4 drives, horse riding and boat trips to view seals and penguins. From Jul - Dec whales can be seen from the shore or boat.

Jan Harmsgat, Swellendam Jan Harmsgat is a working dairy farm, located in an area renowned for its wine estates. Since taking over the farm, the owners have lavished it with love and care, restoring the dairy operation and planting fruit and nut orchards.The old slave quarters were converted into spacious guest rooms, with views across to the Langeberg Mountains. The towns of Robertson, Montagu, and McGregor are close by.

La Residence, Franschhoek La Residence lies within a private farm estate in the Franschhoek Valley. Created with unbridled imagination, the 11 suites are all stunningly different. One room has a Tibetan theme while another is reminiscent of a French Boudoir, and the travertine-floored bathrooms are vast. Persian carpets and an eclectic display of interesting objets d’art abound, combined with an amazing fusion of brilliant jewel-coloured fabrics. A perfect venue for weddings.

Klein Genot, Franschhoek This boutique country estate and vineyard in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley is a wine lover’s paradise. Each stylish room is individually decorated with original artwork and hand quilted French bedcovers. Fabulous organic food, thoughtful service, and a Ginkgo Wellness Centre are part and parcel of the sensory experience guests can expect.

Hog Hollow Country Lodge, Plettenberg Bay Close to Plettenberg Bay and Tsistsikamma National Park, this comfortable lodge is a perfect base in the heart of the Garden Route. With just 15 suites Hog Hollow is small enough to offer its guests a highly personalised service. Well known for delectable food, guests enjoy scrumptious dinners by candle light around the communal dining table. Children are welcome.

Bay Lodge, Plettenberg Bay Just 2 minutes’ leisurely walk from Plettenberg Central Beach, this 6-suite designer boutique beach lodge has an unbeatable location, magnificent views, tranquil contemporary beach décor and a roof terrace with Jacuzzi and BBQ facilities. You can be pampered with breakfast in bed, lunch on your terrace, and dinner on the rooftop overlooking the beach.

Kurland, Plettenberg The family estate of Baroness Dianne Behr is now a luxury boutique hotel, just minutes from the finest beaches of Natures Valley and Plettenberg Bay. There are 12 gorgeous suites, 10 of which have adjoining loft rooms, designed specifically for children. The Kurland Polo field hosts international polo matches, and horse riding is just one of the many activities here. There is a lovely spa too!

Gorah, Addo Elephant Park This camp is one of my favourite places and I always want to stay longer. Accommodation is in luxury tents with a thatched canopy, and en suite facilities. The original farmhouse has been immaculately restored and retains an old world charm. Elephant and other game are often milling around the waterhole as you sit on the verandah sipping a sundowner! The food is fabulous and the service excellent.

The Elephant House, Addo The Elephant House is close to Addo Elephant National Park, in the sun-drenched Sundays River Valley. Designed and built by the owners it has a colonial feel, with pillared verandahs which double as comfortable lounging areas. 8 spacious bedrooms open onto courtyards, and there are 2 pools. Qualified guides conduct excellent daily game drives into the Addo Park, and the Valley Tour is highly recommended.

The Windermere, Port Elizabeth Set in one of the city’s most prestigious locations and just a short walk from the beach, the Windermere is a stylish 8 roomed boutique hotel only 4km from the airport. Unlike most city hotels the rooms are very spacious, decorated in a simple but chic style. Enjoy breakfast al fresco in the courtyard. A room service menu is available for light lunches and dinners, however most guests enjoy the luxury of some of the city’s top restaurants which are within walking distance.

Fugitives Drift, Zulu Battlefields The battlefields of Islandlwana and Rorke's Drift are where the British Army experienced their worst defeat, and their greatest victory, against the Zulus. Fugitives Drift Lodge has spacious, comfortable cottages each with a private verandah looking over the plains flanking the Buffalo River Gorge. Tours are led by knowledgeable guides who are superb storytellers, making the history of these times come alive.

Makanyane Safari Lodge, Madikwe Madikwe is South Africa’s second largest game reserve, home to the Big Five and malaria-free. The lodge enjoys a private game area of nearly 5000 acres, ensuring total exclusivity for guests. Glass walled suites with spectacular bathrooms open onto private decks. Guests can relax at the infinity pool or bush spa, and for those wanting more excitement there is an opportunity to sleep out, on an elevated deck, under the stars.

Ant’s Nest & Ant’s Hill, Waterbergs Ant's Nest and Ant’s Hill are two delightful lodges, owned and run by Ant and Tessa Baber, in a malaria-free private reserve. Ant’s Hill takes just 12 guests, and has a heated swimming pool. Accommodation at Ant’s Nest is also for 12 guests, and is normally booked on an exclusive basis for families or small groups. Both properties conduct game activities by vehicle, on foot, or horse-back. Their herd of over 45 horses ensures there are mounts for all riding abilities including children's ponies.

Londolozi Tree Camp, Sabi Sands Londolozi has five totally separate, uniquely different camps, all adhering to the exceptional personal concept that the Varty family bring to each. Tree Camp is very stylish and perfect for honeymooners. It has Ralph Lauren wallpaper, chocolate coloured plaited-leather beds, and a private plunge pool on the deck. Activities include game drives, guided bush walks with Shangaan rangers, stargazing safaris, and Yoga classes. Leopard sightings are renowned here.

Rhino Post Camp, Kruger National Park Rhino Post Camp has 8 luxury suites, each beautifully decorated with a decked patio and views over the riverbed. Guests track elephant and rhino on foot, or view them from the comfort of open safari vehicles. Sumptuous meals are served under magnificent Tamboti trees and there is an extensive wine cellar and bar. For something special, spoil yourself with a little pampering in the rejuvenation centre, or relax at the pool.

Tintswalo Safari Lodge, Manyeleti Tintswalo is an exclusive safari lodge set in a private concession area within the Manyeleti Reserve. There are 6 exquisitely furnished suites, a Presidential Suite, and a Manor House suitable for up to 10 guests. All suites are air-conditioned and have indoor/outdoor showers, generous decks and your own private plunge pool. Game viewing at Tintswalo takes place on foot or in open landrovers. Walks in the reserve are accompanied by skilled trackers who know their surroundings well, allowing guests the opportunity to come away with information on wildlife, and an insight into the local Shangaan traditions.

Tanda Tula, Timbavati Reserve This tented camp in the Timbavati Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park, has been voted the most luxurious tented camp in South Africa. There are just 12 East African-style tented suites, with bathrooms which feature a sumptuous Victorian bath. The swimming pool overlooks a waterhole which benefits from a constant passing parade of game. Due to fewer game viewing vehicles in this area of the park the game experience tends to be more tranquil than in Sabi Sands.

Royal Malewane, Kruger National Park Royal Malewane is an exclusive getaway for those who value privacy, personalised service and some of the best game viewing Africa has to offer. Each of the 10 palatial, vaulted suites echo the colonial era, with rich Persian rugs, antiques and deeply comfortable sofas. Wooden decks have private infinity plunge pools and secluded thatched gazebos. Elevated walkways link the suites to the main camp and an award-winning chef, private butlers, gym and a stunning spa make this lodge difficult to beat.

Garonga Safari Camp, Makalali Conservancy This 12-bed camp is one of the most romantic places in the bush. The emphasis is very much on an unhurried and relaxed stay, with no timetable in sight. Gorgeous tented rooms have a deck with hammock, and a lovely spacious bathroom area. There is a swimming pool and a bush spa. Spend a night surrounded by the sounds of the bush on the ‘sleep-out deck’, built around a large tree overlooking a waterhole or enjoy a romantic candlelit bush bath under the stars.

Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu Natal Uniquely located between the Indian Ocean and the Ubombo Mountains, Phinda Private Game Reserve offers an unusual combination of both bush and coastal activities. There are 4 unique lodges, as well as 2 private lodges suitable for the exclusive use of families or small groups. Enjoy game drives, bush walks, canoeing on the Mzinene River, tracking white rhino, or watch the sunset from the Mzinene Riverboat Cruise.

Thonga Beach Lodge, Kwazulu Natal The 12 thatched bush suites above a secluded beach on the Maputaland Coast, have been designed for privacy. Local sight-seeing opportunities include a trip to Lake Sibiya, South Africa's largest freshwater lake and part of the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park. Crystal clear, warm waters offer some of the best off-shore scuba diving and snorkelling in Africa. In additon you can enjoy bird watching, turtle tracking and wilderness walks, or take advantage of the lodge's Spa.

Cleopatras Mountain Farmhouse, KwaZulu Natal Richard and Mouse Poynton have created a gourmet retreat in this lovely old fishing lodge. The cantilevered dining room and lounge look over a trout-filled dam and the Drakensburgs. Richard has worked with top chefs all over the world and brings a wealth of experience to his cuisine. Dinner is a sumptuous 5-course affair, based on what is seasonal at the time, complemented by wines from the well-stocked cellar. A picnic basket can be made up for a day exploring the countryside.

Samara Private Game Reserve, Great Karoo Samara is a private game reserve created by Mark and Sarah Tompkins, with conservation high on their list of priorities. The Farmhouse has a colonial feel with lovely wide verandahs, the perfect place for breakfast, or sundowners. Bijou cottages and Farmhouse suites are exquisitely furnished. This is not a Big Five destination, but there is plenty of game including white rhino and black wildebeest. Trekking cheetah on foot is one of the highlights, and the cuisine is a close second!

Rissington Inn, Mpumalanga Rissington Inn has an informal and relaxed atmosphere; sundowners at the bar, delicious food and comfortable rooms. There is a swimming pool, which overlooks the frangipani filled gardens, and spectacular bird life in the grounds. Packed lunches can be provided for those wishing to visit the Kruger on a day trip. This area is scenically very beautiful and is the perfect base from which to explore Blyde River Canyon, the third largest canyon in the world.

Cybele Forest Lodge & Health Spa, Mpumalanga A member of Relais & Chateaux this elegant old hunting lodge is on the doorstep of God’s Window and Pilgrim’s Rest. Cottages have fireplaces, private walled gardens and suites have heated pools. The ultra-luxurious Paddock Suites have private swimming pools. The lodge has its own riding stables, with a groom who will escort guests on a ride. Enjoy wonderful walks, take a helicopter or hot air balloon ride. The Health Spa menu includes aromatherapy and homeopathic treatments.

Tswalu, Kalahari Desert, Northern Cape Tswalu is a Relais & Chateaux lodge set in the largest private game reserve in South Africa. Motse Lodge has 9 thatched luxury suites, a heated swimming pool which overlooks a waterhole, while the exclusive Tarkuni Lodge has 4 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and outside showers. Meerkat dens which are habituated to human presence is one of the many rare sightings possible here. Tracking rhino on foot, horse riding and visits to Bushman rock art sites are also optional activities.