Bloomestate Luxury Retreat

Class: First

Style: Modern design

Rooms: 7

Not quite a hotel, not really a bed and breakfast, Bloomestate is the sort of small, individually-owned lodging that defies categorization. At the edge of the old Dutch colonial town of Swellendam, in South Africa’s Western Cape, it’s more likely a stop on a longer tour of the country — but anyone who makes the effort will be amply rewarded by the mellow atmosphere and the well-composed modernist décor.

At just seven rooms Bloomestate is small by any definition; the way they’re spread about the grounds, though, means it’s more than just a guest house. Color schemes vary, but all are bright, from tangerine to lime, and all are furnished with modernist classics, with Barcelona chairs at the foot of every bed. And the comforts, while more residential in style than out-and-out luxurious, cover all the necessities, including DVD players and iPod-docking stereos.

There’s no restaurant proper, just a fairly extensive breakfast served in a communal dining room. However you’ll quickly find that the restaurants are among the greatest charms of this scenic old Cape Dutch town, including at least one that’s actually within walking distance from the hotel. It’s not a full-service resort by any means, with service at your beck and call — but after a day exploring the town or the surrounding country it’s a fine place to unwind.