Villa Afrikana

Situated high above Knysna in the aptly named suburb of Paradise, the Villa Afrikana guest suites make for a peaceful and stylish stay along South Africa's famed Garden Route. The accommodation combines spacious, comfortable interiors with uninterrupted views of the Knysna Lagoon and Heads. It's ideally positioned within walking distance of town, the waterfront and other local attractions. Tucked next to a nature reserve and surrounded by indigenous trees, it feels private yet accessible – an ideal combination for self-drivers.

The villa is intimate and unpretentious, with just six suites that have been carefully designed for space, comfort and connection to the surrounding scenery. Expect wide balconies, panoramic windows and contemporary interiors warmed by hand-picked local art, including pieces by Neil Nieuwoudt. Savour breakfast in your suite, sip afternoon tea as the sun dips below the treetops and lounge by the saltwater pool with a good book from the in-house library. With the lagoon so close, you can easily access boat cruises, the Featherbed Nature Reserve, forest hikes, golf courses or whale watching in season.

Each suite is individually styled with a spa-like bathroom, king-size bed and luxurious extras like underfloor heating, bathrobes and a pillow-soft feather duvet. You are treated to full daily housekeeping, porter service, room service and a 24-hour reception. There's also a light meal menu, honesty bar, reading room, sun deck and terrace for sundowners with a view. Thanks to its elevated position and architectural design, Villa Afrikana is best suited to adult travellers with children eight years and older and is not wheelchair-friendly.