“ These villas are tucked away from the rest of the world and are off the beaten track but still offer the best in luxury and exclusivity.”

In Part Two of our series, we reveal the best hidden villas in the country.  These villas are tucked away from the rest of the world and are off the beaten track but still offer the best in luxury and exclusivity.  Enjoy our list below and start planning your trip to one of these exclusive locations now!

 Off the Beaten Track

Auberge Clermont Villa, Franschhoek, Cape Winelands 

This stylish villa can be found in the gorgeous Franschhoek Valley, tucked away on a historic wine and fruit farm.  Surrounded by magnificent mountains this self-catering two bed roomed villa overlooks the magnificent backdrop of mountains, vineyards and orchards and also offers a tennis court for the energetic, a sparkling pool and is only a few minutes away from Franschhoek village.  Ideal for children or honeymooners who want some privacy!

Villa at Thanda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu Natal 

Thanda’s royal private villa is one for the books.  Voted as “Africa’s Leading Luxury Villa” this is fit for royalty. Surrounded by the African bush, the villa can accommodate up to ten guests in five luxurious suites. This five star home away from home welcomes family and groups of friends and focuses on making your stay enjoyable and fun but still luxurious and exclusive. Encompassing 1000 m² of sheer unadulterated luxury, the Royal Private Villa is equipped with a private boma, library, cellar, games room, heated swimming pool and a magnificent viewing deck where one can overlook onto the reserves waterhole which is often visited by the Big Five.  It is known for its world class service and warm, hospitable African ambiance as well as outstanding cuisine.

Hog Hollow Villa, near Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route

The Villa at Hog Hollow is about 400 metres from the main lodge and situated on a private nature reserve.  It consists of a three bedroomed double storey house with majestic views of the Tsitsikamma Mountains and the valley below. Decorated with African touches, the rooms are large and loud and have that homey feel.  With private garden, swimming pool, and even games room, this villa is perfect for couples and families.  The Garden Route offers a host of activities and sights from Monkeyland, to the Knysna Elephant Sanctuary, Birds of Eden and of course nearby Plettenberg Bay.

Royal Madikwe Villa, Madikwe Game Reserve, North West

Voted one of the top four villas in the world by the World Luxury Hotel Awards, the Royal Madikwe Villa has it all: luxury, plush surroundings and privacy.  Located in the Madikwe Game Reserve bordering Botswana, you are assured of sighting the Big 5 as well as some cheetah, elephants and wild dog.  The reserve has the added advantage of being malaria free making it the perfect destination for families.  The villa even has a full-time nanny to assist parents as well as a host of activities to keep little ones occupied.  There is also a dedicated team of personal chef, ranger and butler on call if you wish. Enjoy the magnificence of the African bush in style!

Explorers Club, Franschhoek, Cape Winelands

This villa can be found in the Winelands town of Franschhoek.  Surrounded by beautiful trees and a small vineyard this little sanctuary provides many a visitor a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. There are four bedrooms which can sleep up to six adults and four children, and a vast open-plan living, dining and kitchen area. Most of the time people find themselves congregating in the camp kitchen which is large enough to feed and seat many, and where all can sit and absorb the beautiful views of the mountains overhead. The perfect spot to relax after a day of attacking the surrounding vineyards and sampling too much fine wine and cheese!

Singita Castleton Villa, Kruger, Mpumalanga

Situated in the pristine Sabi Sands Game Reserve, the Singita Castleton private villa has everything a family could possibly want for the perfect safari. The villa’s ideal location and superior amenities combine to create an experience that embodies luxury and adventure.  The camp lies to the south of the Sand River and attracts an abundance of game to this location from elephants to buffalo and the big cats.  Relax in a comfortable but posh setting where staff will be at your beck and call and where guests can enjoy sublime cuisine prepared for them by an executive chef. Sample vintage wines by your fireside boma dinner and enjoy sundowners out in the bush, while children can have fun and experience the wild in comfort.