August 17, 2022
Spirited Away: Private Luxury Villa Rentals that Confirm Cape Town is the New Riviera
When it comes to booking a private villa holiday – whether you’re traveling with the family or looking for a romantic seaside bolthole – there’s a magic and magnetism to Cape Town that’s difficult to find anywhere on Earth. ‘People laugh when I say this, but Cape Town is a fisherman’s village – and that’s what I love about it,’ says In Residence founder Pieter Brundyn, ‘There is an intimacy to it, with everything so close together, yet the quality of life is on par with any European capital.’
He couldn’t be more right: with an abundance of fine-dining restaurants and edgy eateries, art galleries, farmers' markets, wine estates, and celebrated local craft and design stores, it has all the glamor and energy of a global city wrapped in the quiet and calm of a coastal hamlet. And, with its verdant, mountain terrain and stunning ocean views, it is the perfect location for groundbreaking homes that champion exceptional architecture and design.
This is where In Residence by Pieter Brundyn does what it does best: we source and secure only the most exceptional luxury villas on the market, chosen by our team for their contemporary architecture, art-filled interiors, and the way to cater to very different needs. Our signature is something we call the In Residence Difference. For us, real luxury exists in experiences – and it’s our pleasure to offer you the finest concierge team on call, night or day, who bring an unsurpassed local knowledge that guarantees you uniquely crafted moments both in and outside of the villa. In short: Our network of local insiders and experts is here to bring holiday fantasies to life.
These villas embody the In Residence by Pieter Brundyn philosophy.
Art Apartment III
Outside of the home itself – which features a sensational collection of contemporary African art, including Zanele Muholi and Mohau Modisikeng, views of the historic quarter (including the historic St George’s Cathedral) and access to an Olympic-sized swimming pool and recreation areas. What makes this private apartment really shine for us is its unique view of Table Mountain. Placed front and center in, you’ll have an undisturbed view of this natural landmark in all its glory. Explore and book Art Apartment III here.
Marrakech
An intimate home that evokes the fantasy of Morocco through a refined palette of intricate timberwork, billowing embroidered curtains and Arabesque rugs – making for an enchanting getaway for the whole family. Beautiful, natural light fills the space, which looks onto the majestic Twelve Apostles mountains as well as the Atlantic and nearby family-friendly beaches. Explore and book Marrakech here.
Le Marais Manor
With its classic Cape Dutch architecture, dating back to the 1890s, this historic former working farm turned luxury villa is a masterpiece of old-world charm and glamor, sensitively renovated to meet (and exceed) our modern needs. We fell in love with the soul of this property, the original Oregon pine floors, the impossibly high ceilings, the exposed beams, and the classic farmhouse stoep that looks onto manicured gardens and the surrounding mountains – it’s the perfect escape for the whole family. Don’t forget about the full micro-wintery, where you’ll be able to host your own wine tastings. Explore and book Le Marais Manor here.
Dawn 7
There is an unmistakable dynamism to this unique villa, where the historic and modern meet to dazzling effect. Unique, even by our standards, this ultra-modern, convention-breaking, architectural villa is located in the country’s oldest Winelands, surrounded by expansive gardens that offer complete seclusion from the world. With four spacious en-suite bedrooms, multiple indoor and alfresco entertainment and lounge areas, as well as a separate cottage, this home offers the complete package to families or groups looking for an escape from the city (while still being close enough to explore the best Cape Town has to offer). Explore and book Dawn 7 here.
Cape Kloof
Built by a leading local architect as his personal home, this villa looks right out of a James Bond movie. Fully wood-paneled interiors lead onto a terrace and heated infinity pool that runs the length of the home and, beyond that, the twinkling city and ocean; this is a home for entertainers and for lovers of exceptional architecture; it was designed by legendary firm SAOTA, after all, and has graced the covers of decor magazines around the world. Explore and book Cape Kloof here.
Zen Sky
At In Residence by Pieter Brundyn we believe that all design should have a purpose, that the true luxury experience happens when wow-factor spaces meet thoughtful details and bespoke design solutions – and Zen Sky villa is a brilliant example of this. Ideal for families or friend groups looking for that home-away-from-home feeling, the property is located in Bantry Bay – one of our favorite Cape Town neighborhoods thanks its easy access to pristine beaches and hiking trails as well as a host of top restaurants and bars. Although, given the generous spaces spread across four levels (including a wine cellar where you can host your own intimate dinners) you may choose not to leave at all. Explore and book Zen Sky here.
