Imagine a beautiful beach house overlooking a white sandy beach - but close to world-class restaurants and award-winning wine estates. Or a spectacular apartment in achingly-trendy Clifton, hanging dramatically over the ocean... Perhaps you'd prefer a relaxed contemporary apartment in the V&A Waterfront, overlooking the yacht marina? All of these are possibilities.

Villas and private apartments in Cape Town vary in luxury and style from ‘blow-your-mind’ luxury to family-friendly affordable apartments. Each villa that we feature has been categorised by us.

Sublime Luxury

These are Cape Town’s stand-out villas and apartments, aimed at those used to the best in the world with exceptional locations, stunning architecture, stylish interiors and immaculate finishes. Most will have multi-media and entertainment centres, indoor/outdoor living spaces and glorious pools. But all will have unique features which separate them from the rest. Whether it’s their unusual collection of furnishings or artwork, truly exceptional location or historical value. Close your eyes when you look at the price tag though…

Examples include Ellerman Villas, One Penthouse, Cape Royale Villas or Wescamp Villa

Romantic Retreats

These are romantic villas or apartments designed for couples celebrating a special occasion. These give you the freedom to kick back and relax. But with only one or two bedrooms. It’s not just the size, it’s the sense of romance and ambience which sets them apart.

Examples include 52 de Wet, African Elite Apartments or More Quarters

Family Friendly

These villas and apartments are spacious and comfortable rather than architectural icons. The key factor is that your family will feel at home here. No need to worry about breaking some valuable sculpture. But these are not modest ‘self-catering apartments' either. They are places you can truly relax in – a home away from home – with the level of luxury that suits your family. Options range from 2 to 4 bedrooms, ideal for larger family groups or two families travelling together.

Examples include Waterfront Apartments, Villas at the Vineyard, The Glen or Camps Bay Resort.

Seaside Living

These villas or apartments are all about enjoying that carefree coastal feeling. These are either right on the ocean or are within three blocks of the sea so that you don’t need to get into your car to head to the beach or to enjoy an alfresco lunch at an ocean view restaurant.

Examples include Sea Five, Camps Bay Resort or the Glen Apartments