The Retreat Villa 163 at Benguela Cove Wine Estate, Hermanus

The Retreat is a luxury villa that is perched on the edge of the shimmering lagoon with the Overberg Mountains as a magnificent backdrop, found along the Western Cape's most celebrated stretch of coastline. Set within the award-winning Benguela Cove Lagoon Wine Estate (named one of the World's Best Vineyards) this spacious three-bedroom villa offers a rare combination of private seclusion, estate grandeur, and effortless access to one of South Africa's most beloved coastal destinations.

The Villa

Accommodating up to six guests across three beautifully appointed en-suite bedrooms, The Retreat is designed for those who want to be genuinely looked after. The master suite features a king bed that converts to twins and a luxurious bathroom with both a bath and a separate shower. Bedroom Two offers a king bed with its own en-suite, while Bedroom Three (positioned in a private outdoor annex) provides a wonderfully secluded retreat within a retreat, complete with its own king bed and en-suite bathroom. Whether you're travelling as a couple, a family, or a small group, the layout feels warm and comfortable.

The living spaces are built for entertaining and unwinding in equal measure. An indoor fireplace anchors the main living area on cooler evenings, while the full gourmet kitchen is well-equipped for those who prefer to cook in. An indoor braai adds a distinctly South African touch to dinner at home. Outside, a private swimming pool invites long, lazy afternoons, and the wood-fired hot tub; an increasingly rare and deeply satisfying addition, is the perfect spot from which to watch the sun set over the lagoon.

High-speed Wi-Fi, inverter backup power, Smart TVs throughout, and daily housekeeping ensure the practical side of your stay runs without a hitch. A private chef is available on request, as is a car and driver; both ideal additions for those who'd rather leave the logistics to someone else. Estate wines are available on request, and in-villa tastings can be arranged directly.

The Estate

Benguela Cove sits within the UNESCO Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve - the most biodiverse fynbos region on earth - making it a destination of genuine distinction for lovers of sustainable travel and wild landscapes. The estate spans a 2.7km private waterfront on the Bot River Lagoon, with lagoon beach access available to all villa guests.

For those who'd happily never leave the property, the estate provides more than enough to fill several days. The Moody Lagoon Restaurant serves beautifully crafted food with sweeping views, while the estate's wine-tasting room and working winery offer an immersive introduction to Benguela Cove's celebrated range. The Lady Bonnie Pontoon Boat glides across the lagoon on guided tours, and vineyard safari trips bring the working wine farm to life. Younger guests are well catered for with Pirate Adventure Golf and a Splash Pad. A 12km running and walking trail winds through the fynbos, and the popular parkrun takes place every Saturday morning on the estate; a lovely way to start a weekend with fellow visitors and locals alike. Security operates around the clock, and the estate has a safe, welcoming atmosphere throughout.

Attractions in Hermanus & Surrounds

Should you feel drawn beyond the estate gates, Hermanus (just 15 minutes away) is waiting with considerable charm. During peak season, the town bursts with energy: the famous cliff path offers dramatic ocean views and some of the world's best land-based whale watching between July and November, when southern right whales congregate in Walker Bay in extraordinary numbers. The Old Harbour, a beautifully preserved fishing village turned artisan market, is a lovely spot for fresh oysters, handcrafted gifts, and locally roasted coffee. The town's main street is home to a fine selection of restaurants, wine bars, and boutiques, and the broader Hemel-en-Aarde Valley (just a short drive inland) is home to several world-class wine estates, making it a must for anyone with even a passing interest in South African wine.

For those seeking adventure, shark cage diving, kayaking, and horse riding along the coast are all readily accessible from Hermanus. Cape Town itself is approximately an hour's drive, and the R43 coastal route that connects the two is one of the more scenic drives in the Western Cape.

Practical Details

The Retreat | 163 is a four-season destination. Group accommodation of this calibre is rarely found with such a breadth of on-estate activities, making it well suited to milestone celebrations, family holidays, and executive retreats alike. The estate's commitment to conservation, green energy, and the surrounding biosphere makes it an inspired choice for travellers who value sustainable travel without wishing to compromise on comfort.

Important Information

A refundable security deposit is required and will be collected separately prior to arrival or at check-in.
Dogs are warmly welcomed (maximum 2). A pet fee of R350 per dog applies.
Baby cots are available at R250 per stay.
A once-off cleaning fee applies.
Chauffeur hire and shuttle services are available upon request for airport transfers and day excursions.