Historic Hotels, Guesthouses, B&Bs, Country Houses in Africa

Palais Faraj Suites & Spa

Hotel in Fes,

Morocco

8.9

Excellent

From $197

Info Categories

Historic Hotel

Hotel with Swimming Pool

Outdoor Pool

Boutique-style Hotel

Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town

Hotel in Cape Town,

South Africa

9.4

Excellent

From $882

Historic Hotel

This hotel housed notable personalities throughout the years. Winston Churchill once referred to it as "a most excellent and well appointed establishment which may be thoroughly appreciated after a sea voyage". The property has been around for more than a century. In 1918, it was painted pink to symbolize peace. This legacy has been carried for 100 years, priding itself with rose-coloured furnishings.

Vineyard Hotel

Hotel in Cape Town,

South Africa

9.1

Excellent

From $150

Historic Hotel

The property was initially used as residence for Lady Anne Barnard, daughter of James Lindsay, the Fifth Earl of Balcarres. It turned into a hotel in 1894, under Mrs. O'Sullivan, the first general manager. For over 2 centuries, it evolved into a more environmentally-friendly and contemporary hotel in Cape Town. To ensure modern comforts, it was renovated in 2008 during the 350th celebration of wine-making in the city, along with the reconstruction of a small but vital part of the property, the vine area.

The Andros Boutique Hotel

Hotel in Cape Town,

South Africa

9.4

Excellent

From $155

Historic Hotel

The hotel offers magnificent views of Table Mountain and park-like gardens. It was originally designed by an Edwardian architect, Sir Herbert Baker, and was built in 1908. It boasts the old-world charm common with traditional Cape Dutch homesteads while maintaining 20th century comforts. Each room will have a private veranda and view of the mountain or the garden.

Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort

Hotel in Bel Ombre,

Mauritius

8.9

Excellent

From $169

Historic Hotel

Enjoy personalized service and exclusive spa facilities. The hotel is named after the 19th century Irish naturalist, Charles Telfair. Heritage Le Telfair is an elegant 19th century hotel that breathes the culture of Mauritius and the Bel Ombre region as a former sugar plantation. Wake up with magnificent views of the garden or the ocean. Selected rooms also offer terrace and balconies for you to lounge around on.

Summary of reviews related to the 'Historic' categoryNestled among palm trees and bougainvillea, the colonial-style buildings of Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort exude historical charm. The resort's architecture, inspired by 19th-century French design, transports guests to another era. With its rich history, this hotel offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Show more

Steenberg Hotel & Spa

Hotel in Tokai,

South Africa

9.4

Excellent

From $209

Historic Hotel

The Cape’s first farm, established in 1682. Catharina Michelse asked Simon van der Stel for a portion of the ground where he agreed to leased 50 acres to her. Later, she asked him for a legal title to "cultivate, to plough and to sow and also to possess the farm below the stone mountain". Originally named, 'Swaaneweide' - The Feeding Place of Swans, reminding her of her native town. In 1695 Frederik Russouw bought the farm, he was a wealthy member of the Burger Council. He built the new house. The original Manor House was restored and declared a Provincial Heritage Site.

The Robertson Small Hotel by The Living Journey Collection

Hotel in Robertson,

South Africa

9.3

Excellent

From $90

Historic Hotel

Initially built in 1909, this manor house boasts a Victorian style and architecture with high ceilings and large windows. Having managed to retain this period splendour and style, the manor has been turned into a charming hotel that offers the most exquisite services and accommodation facilities to all its guests.

Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel & Spa

Hotel in Stellenbosch,

South Africa

8.9

Excellent

From $90

Historic Hotel

This quaint five star hotel sits in the renowned Church Street. The property is a restored Manor House that dates back since 1713. Areas in the hotel are intricately designed with antique yellow-wood ceiling and richly carved French wallpaper. A wall is adorned by lighted trees made of wire. The dining area has hand-hewn poplar chairs under a glass roof. Interior design blends contemporary comfort with traditional aesthetic.

Summary of reviews related to the 'Historic' categoryCoopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel & Spa is a charming and historical property located in the heart of Stellenbosch. The hotel boasts an authentic Cape feel and is designed in a colonial style. The lovely old building provides guests with a beautiful setting and an old world charm that is hard to resist. This period property is full of wonderful historical atmosphere that guests absolutely love. Overall, Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel & Spa is more than just a place to stay, it's an experience that combines luxury, comfort and a touch of nostalgia.
Show more

De Kloof Heritage Estate Hotel and Wellness

Hotel in Swellendam,

South Africa

8.6

Very Good

From $219

Historic Hotel

The property is a well-preserved masterpiece that was built in 1801.The original floors, ceilings and white-washed walls are still kept to maintain an old-world feel. It stands as one of the oldest buildings in the town of Overberg, the 3rd oldest historical village in South Africa. It is between Cape Town and George and along the beautiful Breede River. It is declared as a South African national monument.

Summary of reviews related to the 'Historic' categoryDe Kloof Heritage Estate Hotel and Wellness is a hidden gem located in central Swellendam. The hotel boasts a 200-year-old Dutch farm that has been well-preserved and protected, giving it an exceptional, charming look. Guests are welcomed to stunningly maintained grounds surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The hotel is a historical landmark with plenty of character and history that make it stand out from other hotels. The building is very impressive and guests can marvel at the historical ensemble van gebouwen that contribute to the beautiful old complex. Overall, a stay at De Kloof Heritage Estate Hotel and Wellness is an unforgettable experience, where the rich history and beauty of the hotel will be sure to take your breath away.
Show more

Hacklewood Hill Country House

Bed & Breakfast in Port Elizabeth,

South Africa

9.1

Excellent

From $73

Historic Bed & Breakfast

This historic building was built in 1898. It sits in a lush English setting in the green suburb of Walmer, a perfect place for tranquil getaways. Hacklewood Hill is one of the few standing Victorian Manor Houses, it maintains the old-world elegance while keeping up with the pace of modern comforts. Once you walk in, you are greeted by intricately stained glass doors, gleaming wooden floors and banisters.

Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel

Hotel in Cape Town,

South Africa

8.3

Very Good

From $78

Historic Hotel

Throughout the decades, it was renovated and even altered but the basic design is still maintained. Originally constructed by the Dutch architect, Anthony De Witt, who came to South Africa in 1879. The Australian architect, William Black, undertook extensions around 1900s. In 1920s, the veranda was re-constructed on four sets of concrete pillars during the rebuilding. It's initial name was Hotel Metropole, opened in 1895. The newspaper report mentioned in 1895 that it was "one of the landmarks of the city … five storeys high. It is of a very imposing and grand appearance, being designed in the old German Renaissance style."

Rosenhof Boutique Hotel

Country House in Oudtshoorn,

South Africa

9.5

Excellent

From $183

Historic Country House

The hotel has its own rose garden which features 20 varieties of roses. It also boasts trees like pomegranate, lemon, olive and pear which dates back to 1852 when it was built as a working farm. It opened its doors to travelers in 7th of December 1992. It is privately owned and run by Nic and Ferda Barrow. Ferda is a teacher with deep passion for gardening, cooking and interior design. Thanks to her, the rooms house is furnished traditional style with contemporary twist.

Sarova Stanley

Hotel in Nairobi,

Kenya

7.6

Good

From $176

Historic Hotel

The in-house Thorn Tree Café has been popular among travellers for decades. Ernest Hemingway frequented in the café and restaurant from 1933 and 1934. It is in the café where he wrote some of his books. Winston Churchill was also a visitor once in 1907, a conference room was named after him. The hotel launched in 1902. It was the first luxury hotel in Nairobi, graced by world leaders, authors and international celebrities. Today, it retains its original character and aesthetic while providing modern comforts to guests.

Summary of reviews related to the 'Historic' categorySarova Stanley is a charming, historic hotel located at the heart of Nairobi, known for its old-world charm and charisma. The hotel has preserved many original elements, including some colonial period wood décor, making it like staying in a museum but with all the modern comforts. As the city's first hotel, it has an added touch of African and old-world atmosphere, steeped in history and housed in a beautiful, historic building. The hotel has amazing staff and is very well maintained with guests across the board appreciative of its historically significant elements. Although being a historic hotel has its downsides, it's a great place to stay for tourists who want to soak in some of the city's colonial history.
Show more

Palais Amani

Riad in Fes,

Morocco

9.1

Excellent

From $167

Historic Riad

Located in the heart of Fez Medina, the area was the capital of Idrisid dynasty. Today it is rife with markets and shopping centres. The area is characterized by distinctive Al-Andalus architecture from the Middle-Ages. The property maintains this tradition and is designed to give you an old-world feel. The hotel was used as a former palace, thanks to this, each rooms are uniquely designed and provides spacious accommodation.

Grande Roche Hotel

Hotel in Paarl,

South Africa

8.7

Very Good

From $225

Historic Hotel

This hotel sits at the foot of Paarl Rock (Pearl). It features a renovated Victorian manor house with outdoor pool and a wellness centre with Swedish massages. This is the ideal base for explore the Cape and its winelands. The property is a beautifully restored 18th century building offering 29 luxury suites and 6 executive rooms with distinctive thatched roofs, bamboo and yellow wood ceilings for a unique atmosphere.

Riad Kniza

Riad in Marrakech,

Morocco

9.2

Excellent

From $164

Historic Riad

The property dates back from 18th century. It is characterized by distinctive architecture of Al-Andalus. Staying true to its tradition, the rooms are beautifully furnished by old-world charm. It is restored by Haj Mohamed, one of the most renowned professional guides to A-list celebrities including former US Presidents and international movie stars like Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise and Jennifer Aniston.

Dar victoria

Guest House in Fes,

Morocco

9.2

Excellent

From $60

Historic Guest House

This jewel sits in the Andalou district, offering peaceful retreats from the high activity of the nearby Medina. Perfect for travellers looking for tranquil getaways with street markets and shops. Dar Victoria is a restored Moroccan-style house from the 18th century. It is characterized by high ceilings, intricate pillar designs and rooms furnished with antiquities to give you a traditional way of living. Complimentary breakfast from fresh market produce is served on the roof terrace or the picturesque courtyard.