Even though the passing of a monarch may have caused a global craze, kings and queens might succumb to the test of time. Castles on the other hand – although sometimes kitsch – remain marvels to explore and often tap into that old child-like enthusiasm.
Lindsay Castle: Getaway GalleryWhether it’s a Disney Princess or Game of Thrones war hero you’re after, we’ve got a castle just for you – right here in the Western Cape!
Filled with history, whispers of the past, and adventures for today, visiting a castle is certainly a unique experience.
Immerse yourself in a place that has stood against the test of time, and let your imagination run wild. Grab your Cinderella slippers or medieval swords – as we check out four mansions of yesteryear.
1. Lichtenstein Castle
Lichtenstein Castle : Lichtenstein Gallery
Lichtenstein Grounds : Lichtenstein Gallery
Like a scene snatched from a Disney movie, this castle lays at the edge of Hout Bay in Cape Town.
Perched upon the Karbonkelberg Mountain overlooking the Hout Bay harbour is the magnificent Lichtenstein Castle. It’s a playground for all the dreams of days gone by.
Built as a replica of the Gothic Schloss Lichtenstein Castle in southern Germany, the rustic brick walls and century-appropriate furniture make it feel like you’ve time travelled.
The private estate is yours to rent out for exclusive functions, events or any occasion to live out your medieval fantasies with friends and family.
- Location: Habour Rd, Hout Bay
2. Castle of Good Hope
Castle of Good Hope: Castle of Good Hope Gallery
The Castle of Good Hope, built in the late 1600s, is bound with local history and Medieval artefacts which formed part of westernising South Africa.
It is the oldest recorded building in South Africa. It can be explored with a guided tour, providing a fascinating look into South Africa’s early colonial history.
It took many hands to build this beast. From sailors and soldiers to women and slaves.
The castle was restored in the late 1900s and there are plans to do this again, in order to preserve this historical piece of architecture.
- Location: Darling St & Buitenkant St
3. Noetzie Castle
Noetzie Castle : Noetzie Castle Gallery
Overlooking a quaint beach, Noetzie (Originally called Noetziekamma) is home to several castles built by families off the cliffs of Knysna.
The collection of castles was originally built as holiday homes and remains absolutely stunning to look at. One of the castle’s are available to visit to the general public.
The Pezula Private Castle is located right on the beach and is part of a collection of castles on the coast.
Surrounded by nature and the sounds of the Indian Ocean, it’s a mystical place. All this is rolled into stone and features royal interiors. It’s fit for the most enchanting experience.
- Location: Noeztie Rd, Noetzie
4. Casa Labia
Casa Labia by Ideas Cartel/Facebook
Casa Labia is the perfect mini castle, with ultra-modern finishings – it has a comfortable interior while donning a fabulous vintage castle look on the outside. Unlike the other castles on our list, Casa Labia has more royal lenience due to the fact that it is owned by Italian Count Natale Labia.
Famous for serving delicious breakfast and high tea, there’s more to do here than just look.
If the food and sightseeing caught your attention booking an overnight stay at the hotel is quick and easy with the opportunity to host events and invite friends and family to your royal soiree.
- Location: 192 Main Rd, Muizenburg
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