Whether it’s 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!
Crammed 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 throughout the ages, and let your imagination run wild. Grab your Cinderella slippers and swords – we’re checking out four mansions of yesteryear.
1. Lichtenstein Castle:
In the scenic town of Hout Bay is this castle snatched from a fairytale.
Perched upon the Karbonkelberg Mountain overlooking the Hout Bay harbour is the magnificent Lichtenstein Castle. It’s a playground for all that dream 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 you feel as though you’ve time travelled.
The private estate is yours to rent for exclusive functions, events or any occasion to live out your medieval fantasies with friends and family.
- Location: Harbour Rd, Hout Bay
2. Castle of good hope:
The Castle of Good Hope, built in the late 1600s, is bound with local history – Medieval Mzanzi?
It’s 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 (women at work – gasp!).
The castle was restored in the late 1900s and there are plans to do this again, keeping history up to date.
- Location: Darling St & Buitenkant St
3. Noetzie Castle:
‘Looking’ over 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 is still stunning to look at. One of them is available to visit.
The Pezula Private Castle is located right by the beach and is part of the collection of castles on the coast.
Surrounded by nature and the sound of wooshes from the Indian Ocean, it’s a magical, mystical and magnificent place. All this is rolled into stone and features royal interiors. It’s fit for the most enchanting experience.
- Location: Noetzie Rd, Noetzie
4. Casa Labia:
Case Labia is the perfect mini castle, and is a bit more modern – but a fabulous castle nonetheless. Created by an actual royal, the mansion belongs to Italian Count Natale Labia.
Famous for serving delicious breakfast and high tea, there’s more to do here than just look.
Enjoy the royal treatment that much? There are rooms if you’d like to spend a night or two. Snooty events are often hosted here, if you’re keen to get your Bridgerton on.
- Location: 192 Main Rd, Muizenberg
Also read:
Feel like royalty at these 10 scrumptious places to High Tea in Cape Town
Picture: Lichtenstein Castle / Gallery
