A magical mix of island vibes and Afro-modern style.
On the edge of a private marina at the buzzing V&A Waterfront, enveloped by views of Table Mountain, One&Only Cape Town is a world-class resort that raises the bar when it comes to accommodation, amenities, wining and dining.
Despite its central location, the hotel feels far removed from the bustle of the city, offering guests a sense of discretion and seclusion – particularly on its palm-treed private “island”, home to a lagoon-like swimming pool (complete with four-poster cabanas), a poolside restaurant and a fabulous Bali-esque hydro-spa.
Foodies will be in their element with the only Nobu in Africa, famed for its Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine. For all-day dining, sophisticated drinks and high tea, the Vista Bar & Lounge at the heart of the resort has an iconic, picture-perfect view of Table Mountain. The modern, fresh and flavoursome plant-led menu was curated by renowned SA chef Karen Dudley. In addition, the Wine Studio offers a vast and beautifully curated collection of South African wines.
Naturally, the resort lays on a variety of additional leisure activities for guests, all designed to get the best out of a visit to this wonderful city, and has a great kids’ club to keep the younger ones delighted. With its ultra-luxe offering, superb hospitality and service, no wonder it’s become a bucket-list destination for discerning travellers (and celebrities, too).
A sense of place
A recent redesign and renovation has cemented its identity as South Africa’s only One&Only resort. Taking advantage of its location between mountain and sea, the decor and interiors celebrate nature, heritage and local craftsmanship.
Every space tells a story, filled with symbolism and connection. Table Mountain’s contours are mirrored in the patterns on carpets and earthy ceramics; the kelp forest in our ocean has inspired cushion fabrics and hand-carved mirror frames; the Cape’s unique fynbos flora blooms throughout the hotel.
African craft is echoed in beaded pots, basketry and traditional West African kente cloth; in gemstone shield headboards and the namji dolls (traditional good-luck charms) used as the “Do Not Disturb” signs. The legend of “The Watchers” (the story of the creation of Table Mountain) has been conveyed in a sculptural installation in the Vista Lounge & Bar, facing the mountain.
The lodgings
One&Only Cape Town offers a tranquil and luxurious hideaway on the doorstep of the city. Its 131 rooms and suites are known to be some of the most spacious in the city (a minimum size of 63 square metres), all with a private balcony or terrace and views of the surrounding waterways, Table Mountain and lush greenery.
- 89 Marina or Island rooms (sleep 2 – 3 adults, optional 1 – 2 children)
- 40 Marina or Island suites (one or two bedrooms, sleep 2 – 6 adults, optional 1 – 2 children)
- 3 signature top-floor suites: Table Mountain (sleeps 2 – 3 adults); Presidential (sleeps 4 – 5 adults); 1 Lion’s Head Penthouse (sleeps 8 adults)
- daily breakfast
Good to know As part of One&Only Cape Town’s “Summit & Sea” project, a percentage of the rate paid for staying in either of the Signature Suites goes to conservation. The Table Mountain Suite is aligned with the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Threatened Amphibian Programme (helping to save the Table Mountain ghost frog), while The Presidential Suite is aligned with the Two Oceans Aquarium’s Turtle Conservation Centre.
Things to do at One&Only Cape Town
- four restaurants, plus private dining options
- private gym with specialized personal trainers
- wine-tastings, pairings and blending experiences on-site
- private pool
- paddleboarding in the private marina’s canals
- bespoke spa treatments on private island
- personalised tours to the Winelands, beaches, Table Mountain and more
- boat trips
- one-on-one yoga sessions
- guided nature walks and hikes
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes
Cost Enquire for available rate
Contact 021 431 5800, reservations@oneandonlycapetown.com
Where to find it Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
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