A recent study has shown that Cape Town, South Africa, is one of the best value long-haul destinations for sunshine, scenery and singular dining spots. Here’s where to stay …
Kensington Place
Located on the slopes of Table Mountain, this eight-room boutique hotel is a short drive from some amazing beaches and the lush wine region. The hotel will appeal to design lovers, while the health conscious will enjoy the hotel restaurant where light, low key meals are a forté – breakfast is served all day and supper is private dining-style. The popular Kloof Street is mere minutes away, where some of the city’s buzzing bistros are found. Recommended for dining is The Black Sheep, Vadivelu and Kloof Street House. Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain for the spectacular views and, of course, visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was held prisoner. The tours of the prison by inmates is fascinating and very touching. www.kensington-place.co.za
Gorgeous George
Mixing Victorian details and African art, striking murals and textiles, this boutique hotel with 32 bedrooms will appeal to aesthetes and arty travellers. Its central location – on a pedestrianised mall not far from Company’s Gardens – means guests are surrounded by markets, shops and restaurant, while the touristy V&A Waterfront is a 15-minute walk. Rooms are spacious and a highlight of the hotel is its Gigi Rooftop, where sharing plates celebrating seasonal, local ingredients are served, as are interesting cocktails (infused with CBD oil!). It has a small pool, while guests have a free gym pass for facilities nearby. www.gorgeousgeorge.co.za
Noah House
This feels like a private hideaway in the trendy Tamboerskloof area, close to Kloof Street. It is owned by Dutch couple, Sarina and Gerald van Engelen, who have infused a Victorian-era building with a luxurious minimalist aesthetic. There are ten guest rooms, as well as a cafe (and patio) and a tranquil lounge. There’s a pantry for residents to help themselves to teas and coffees, and guests can use the house car – a vintage Land Rover Defender with driver – for picnics along the peninsula or some cruising along the wine route. www.noah-house.com
Cape Grace
After nine months of renovations, Cape Grace, a Fairmont Managed Hotel, opened this summer with a new look inspired by South Africa’s heritage, culture and artistry. With great views of the city, each of the 112 rooms and suites features large French windows or balconies that look out onto either the Marina at the V&A Waterfront or the iconic backdrop of Table Mountain. The Cape Grace Suite is a stand-out to book for special occasion holidays, with an expansive terrace and private dining area. For gourmet travellers, the tasting menu in its new Heirloom restaurant has been created by well-known Cape Town chef, Gregory Czarnecki, which serves elevated South African-inspired food. There’s also a Pool Bar for relaxed afternoons and a Library Lounge for afternoon tea. For spa devotees, the serene Fairmont Spa at Cape Grace features bath rituals, jet lag recovery, detox massages, a salt room experience and guided meditation to help guests relax fully. www.capegrace.com
Future Found Sanctuary
This sustainable architectural masterpiece is tucked away on the slopes of Table Mountain at Hout Bay. The two-villa retreat, which has nine rooms between them, was designed to improve wellbeing; offering regenerative experiences that nurture every sense and element of wellness. Set on seven acres, it’s ideal for hiking (including the Myburgh Ravine on Table Mountain) and has a yoga studio, spa, gym, a natural immersion pond and heated pools. www.newmarkhotels.com
A recommendation from a Hotel General Manager:
Fits Potgieter, Montenotte Hotel, Cork
“I first encountered Camps Bay, Cape Town, while working for Red Carnation Hotels at their London properties. The company owns the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, an exquisite boutique establishment in Camps Bay that boasts breathtaking views of both the ocean and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. I highly recommend exploring the nearby wine routes. A trip to Franschhoek is a must, as is lunch at the Delaire Graff Estate in Stellenbosch, where you can enjoy stunning views, exceptional wines, and impressive art collections. As a wine enthusiast, I can attest to the world-class quality of the wines produced in this region. Camps Bay holds a special place in my heart. As an Afrikaans speaker, I feel at home hearing my native language. And the backdrop of Table Mountain against the sea creates a truly spectacular Cape Town setting that never fails to impress.” @frits8537