Moondance Villa, Fresnaye, Cape Town, South Africa

Why we love it:
Moondance Villa speaks of abundance. Not just because it is abundantly luxurious and gorgeous in every way, but because there is a culture of abundance in the way the staff add value to their guests stay at every turn.Instead of being charged for every service and extra, they are actively looking to add value, spoil you and charge you nothing for it. Set up high against the granite copse of Fresnaye, you are sheltered from the wind and have glorious wrap-around views of the city.

What to expect :
Modern, but with soft lighting and the sound of running water beneath your feet - the villa is a mix of designer sleek and comfy relaxed elegance. It has plenty of private spaces for a large group to find their chill-spot ( the youngsters would love the below-ground bar where you can view swimmers in the pool), and with four large bedrooms, it can comfortably accommodation 8 to 10 people in luxury. A full team of housekeepers, butler, chef, chauffeur and house manager are around but certainly not visible or intrusive. A huge gym on the lower floor ensures you can keep fit while checking out the view.

What to do:
Of course the city if brimming with treasures, but for those who just want to enjoy the villa, you can go walking up the mountain right behind the house with a guide, there is yoga daily, a masseuse on call, the gym is waiting for you, or just curl up with a good book at the pool. The olive grove is also a delightful area to enjoy a dinner el fresco or sun-downers.

Kids: Kids are welcomed. There are many levels, balconies and open swimming pools so parents of very young children will need to be vigilant. Babysitters and caregivers can be arranged.

When to go: Summer in Cape Town starts in October and goes on till April. Summer average temperatures are a comfortable 26 degrees C and the villa is sheltered from the wind. Winter can be cold and wet, but can still average 20 degrees C in the daytime, with beautiful bright days in between the winter storms.

How to get there: Cape Town International Airport is a 30-minutes drive from the Villa and you will be collected by the chaffeur.