Unwind at the Angala Boutique Hotel



Surrounded by nature and nestled at the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountains, Angala Boutique Hotel & Guesthouse is the perfect haven for anyone seeking relaxation in a luxurious setting.

Located just an hours drive from Cape Town city centre and 15 minutes drive from Franschhoek town, this 5-star retreat could be referred to as "off the beaten track".... and that's part of why we loved it.


On our way to the hotel we were surprised when Google directed us off the main road ,  through the Vrede en Lust farm entrance and then up a quiet farm road.  At first Sergio and I thought we may be going the wrong way, but as we carried on we saw small signs confirming we were on the right track.

When we reached the hotel we were greeted by beautiful scenery, friendly staff and a feeling of truly being away from it all.

Even though the weather was less than perfect outside, there was a roaring fire in the main lounge and we were offered a glass of bubbly. We instantly felt like we were in someone's fancy livingroom rather than a hotel.

Side note: The owners of Angala are South African, live in Cape Town and stay at the property often. 


Our Suite

We were lucky enough to stay in a 'luxury suite' for two nights and it was beyond fantastic. It was really more like having our own cottage, than just a room. Not only did we have the most stunning views off our private patio, but also had a spacious living area and a wood-burning fireplace.

The overall feel of the room was understated luxury. We could tell a lot of thought had gone into making the room extra comfortable and there were plenty of thoughtful touches (candles you can light, books to read and even a yoga mat)

My favourite part of the suite was undoubtedly the bathroom, with 2 showers (one outdoor, one indoor) and a big bathtub. My husband's favourite feature had to be the well-stocked, complimentary mini bar and the selection of 23 Nespresso pods.

Side note: Every room has good wifi, a TV, Nespresso machine, selection of teas & coffees, a "poolside" bag to carry your towels, fluffy robes, complimentary mini bar and Healing Earth toiletries. 


Relaxation and wellness

While just being surrounded by the beauty of nature and away from work is enough to give some people a sense of relaxation, Angala has even more on offer to help you unwind.

First off, there are a number of spa & massage treatments available, as well as private yoga sessions.

Guests also have the unlimited use of an infared sauna, steam room and three pools on the property: an ozonated cold pool,  ozanated solar-heated pool and an eco pool ( As it was rather chilly during our time away, my favourite thing to do was to sit in the heated pool until I went pruney).

The eco pool was by far the most interesting of the three. The thing that makes it an "eco" pool is that a has a completely natural filtering process. This filtering process was created to be similar to what you find in a mountain stream or river.  While this does give the pool a green hue, it helps to remind you of the marvelous ecosystem at work.

Side notes: Angala is all about spreading well-being, so no surprise that they support a number of  community charities and environmental projects - check them out here .


The Food:

Complimentary breakfast is included with your stay at Angala and it is scrumptious. You can choose from a variety of a la carte options  (omelettes, Eggs Benedict, etc) or just snack on the cold buffet selection (which includes decadent things like sparkling wine, local cheeses and oysters).

While there are a plethora of great dining options just a few minutes drive away, it is well worth trying Angala's in-house restaurant. The 3 course dinner menu is changed daily, and all the produce is sourced locally.

On our first night, we tried their set menu and it was a wonderful experience (I especially loved the chocolate fondant pudding). The food was delicious and well presented. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable and attentive.

Side note: Don't worry if don't see anything that suits you on the set menu, they do try to cater for all dietary requirements and are more than willing to take requests.



Final thoughts:

What's not to love about Angala? You are surrounded by picturesque scenery, with the sounds of birds tweeting away, as you sip your bubbly in a hot tub... there is possibly too much to love (is that a thing?).

Staying at Angala was an absolute pleasure. From arrival to departure, we felt looked after and relaxed. The staff were really outstanding, accommodating and  always welcoming. It was Sergio's birthday during our stay and they made him a special chocolate fondant for breakfast, which made him feel very special.

If you are looking for a place to de-stress in the winelands or a romantic retreat, I would definitely recommend Angala.

Would we visit again?  We will definitely be going back. In fact, I wish I was there now.


To make a booking or read more about Angala, click HERE



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