To get to Angala Boutique Hotel and Guesthouse, you have to travel along a narrow country road at the speed of a snail. But that’s okay. Angala is the sort of place that is worth travelling to. In fact, if staying at Angala were all you intended to do, it would still be worth the trip from Cape Town.

Located above the neighboring vineyards at the foot of one of the Franschhoek mountains, Angala is a place where you can reconnect with nature and recharge your batteries. Everything at Angala is geared toward tranquility – from the eco-pool, which resembles a mountain pool and is kept clean through the use of plants, to the private terrace and garden that comes with each room.

The rooms are worth mentioning because they are so elegant: picture wooden floors, a neutral palette, and beautiful pieces of furniture. The enormous bathrooms include Victorian-style bathtubs that you can almost lie spread-eagled in, underfloor heating, and two showers – one inside the bathroom and one outside on a private deck that has spectacular views of the mountain.

However, it is the small details that make this place so special: a thoughtfully collated collection of spiritual books on the coffee table; a teapot and fresh milk in the fridge for those who enjoy tea made properly; a Nespresso machine for those who prefer coffee; a complimentary minibar stocked with wine, beer, and a selection of cool drinks; Charlotte Rhys toiletries; an umbrella in case it rains; and towels in a beach bag in case you decide to go for a swim.

Breakfast – a continental or cooked breakfast – is served in the hotel’s restaurant, and the chef is on hand to prepare dinner for those who require it. In keeping with its retreat ethos, Angala offers a number of retreat packages during the winter months – yoga, photography, art, couple’s therapy – all at very affordable prices. In fact, even during the high season, you’ll struggle to find a hotel in the area that offers better value for money.