Steenberg Hotel

A family journey to one of Cape Town's oldest farms is likely to result in one, fabulous photo album. South Africa's stunning five-star Steenberg Hotel, also a working winery, is set against a backdrop of sloping mountains and gangly grapevines that produce some of the region's most prized vintages. The cluster of buildings, with distant bay views, date back to the 17th-century and are considered a national monument. With just two-dozen rooms, the sense you'll get is one of intimacy and attentiveness. Aside from the stunning surroundings, the hotel has a pair of swimming pools where kids can splash to their hearts' content or join mom and dad on the 18-hole championship golf course.

A 30-minute drive into Cape Town offers views of a number of natural wonders that abut the urban offerings. For families looking for a mountain climbing adventure with a view there is Table Mountain National Park, where Table Mountain is credited for forming a large portion of this serene destination. Climb to its very top on foot or ascend from within a cableway for a more relaxed experience, either way your end reward will be stunning views of Cape Town. Continuing west there are peaks, peninsulas and headlands to discover, too. The seasonal whale watching in Hermanus is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Group excursions to view the African wildlife can also be arranged with the concierge. Return to Steenberg in the afternoon just in time for a much-needed massage. While the kids chomp on grapes, parents can actually taste the results of recent harvests by sampling some of the estate's wines at the onsite winery. Enjoy a family meal at Catharina's Restaurant, where you are invited to relax and dine on savory South African cuisine. Imagine the tales your children can tell when writing an essay on their most recent family vacation.