THE FACTS ABOUT LA RESIDENCE

South_Africa

This is without a doubt the most glamorous hotel in the Cape's gourmet capital, Franschhoek. Set on a 30-acre estate of vineyards, orchards and established oaks, this new luxury hideaway is down a winding, cobbled driveway. The façade looks surprisingly austere and the building vast and barn-like; the gardens are well- manicured, with water features and frangipani trees. Inside, the entrance hall is palatial, with chequered marble floors and a dazzling, four-metre-long chandelier suspended from contrastingly rustic exposed beams. A grand dining hall, furnished with long refectory tables and antique display cabinets, opens onto the formal sitting room with richly upholstered sofas, huge fireplaces and vibrant contemporary art works. Upstairs there's a well-stocked library. Each of the 11 suites has its own statement-making personality, with Persian rugs, sumptuous drapes and beds layered in linen. The opulent bathrooms are furnished with French ottomans and freestanding baths. The cuisine, too, is excellent, making inspired use of seasonal local ingredients. There are plans for a spa, guest cottages and a separate family villa. WHEN TO GO Summer (November-March) to make full use of the gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the vineyards. ROOM TO BOOK Room 3 for its extravagant marble fourposter bed, which is heated in winter. Elandskloof Private Road, Franschhoek (00 27 21 876 4100; www.laresidence.co.za). Doubles from R5,800 (about £380) Find out more about South Africa in our destination guides