The 15 Best Boutique Hotels in Cape Town

Cape Town’s boutique-hotel scene continues to blossom… A beguiling category that encompasses owner-run guesthouses and small hotels with the personalised touch, each one is brimming with character and utterly unique. What they all have in common, though, is a home-from-home feel, with genuine service that offers that extra je ne sais quoi. Spectacular locations, a design aesthetic that turns heads, and new ways to fall in love with Cape Town at every turn.

We’ve scouted Cape Town for the best in the category (fewer than 100 rooms) – more than just a place to stay, but havens that offer a priceless sense of being immersed in the spirit of a city and I-wouldn’t-want-to-be-anywhere-else-in-the-world.

The Silo Hotel

Where V&A Waterfront
Soaring above the surrounding design precinct (aptly called The Silo District), this striking hotel has undoubtedly made its mark on the city. Built in the six floors above the historical grain storage cylinders that now house Zeitz MOCAA, the property’s impressive architecture, with its eye-catching geometric windows, was masterminded by London-based Heatherwick Studio and hints at what lies within. A tastefully colourful interior, by owner Liz Biden, welcomes guests to an unforgettable experience where luxe comfort, warm and friendly service, contemporary dining, dizzyingly dramatic harbour and Table Mountain views, and a sun-kissed rooftop pool await.
Insider detail The hotel’s pillow-shaped windows were carved from the original concrete grain silos, each one unique due to the hand-cutting process. And the collection of contemporary African art collected by Liz Biden and displayed on the walls of the suites and public spaces is second to none.
What’s on offer

• 28 suites
• Penthouse Suite (one bedroom, two marble bathrooms, two balconies, cinema room and spa treatment room)
• The Granary Café for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner
• The Willaston Bar for cocktails and tapas
• The Silo Rooftop for sundowners and light meals
• contemporary African art throughout the hotel
• The Vault, the hotel’s exclusive subterranean art gallery
• tailored art tours with art concierge Michael Jacobs
• The Silo Spa with five treatment rooms and sauna
• gym
• rooftop swimming pool
• private dining for up to 22 guests in The Wisdom Room
• Zeitz MOCAA, the world’s largest contemporary African art museum just downstairs

Perfect for art enthusiasts; architecture lovers; guests seeking unique luxury accommodation in the heart of the bustling Waterfront.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R26 200 per room per night (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Ellerman House

Where Bantry Bay
With over 33 years of hospitality under its belt, and various notable guests passing through its grand halls, this one-of-a-kind luxury hotel in the exclusive cliffside suburb of Bantry Bay has built a stellar reputation that speaks for itself. Old-world elegance permeates the spectacular seaside setting, where a curated collection of contemporary local art, beautiful grounds and uninterrupted ocean and mountain views await. Although expansive, there’s a wonderful sense of intimacy and home-from-home calm, where your every need is met. Ellerman House holds all the charm of a once-upon-a-time sojourn, with modern creature comforts to boot.
Insider detail The hotel’s art collection includes works by William Kentridge, Irma Stern and other masters, with pieces rotating from the owners’ extensive private collection.
What’s on offer

• 13 house rooms and suites
• 2 private villas (three ensuite bedrooms, lounge and dining area, kitchen, swimming pool and deck, private chef and hospitality team)
• OneEighty restaurant for a refined seasonal menu that changes daily
• Curate for fine wine-paired tasting menus in the extraordinary wine gallery
• a 10 000-bottle private wine collection of South Africa’s finest labels and rare vintages
• cocktail bar for sunset drinks and canapés
• help-yourself-pantry filled with freshly made treats
• spa with four treatment rooms and a relaxation area with sauna, polar plunge pool and sensation shower
• lush indigenous gardens, including a series of terraced lawns edged with fynbos
• heated swimming pool
• yoga on the lawn
• gym with an ocean view
• library with fireplace
• exclusive art gallery

Perfect for ultra-luxury seekers; art collectors; wine connoisseurs; guests prioritising privacy and exclusivity above all else.
Child friendly? Yes, 12 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R19 000 per room per night (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Steenberg Hotel & Spa

Where Tokai
Set on the oldest farm (established in 1682) in the Constantia Winelands, Steenberg’s wild mountain landscapes have been tamed into lush vineyards, beautiful gardens (dotted with extraordinary sculptures by Edoardo Daniele Villa) and a manicured championship golf course. The original Cape Dutch farm buildings house a 24-room boutique hotel, restaurant and spa, with spectacular mountain views, big skies and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal country escape, no matter what time of year you visit.
Insider detail The inspiring story of feisty Catharina Ras, who founded Steenberg, still resonates on the farm today. Her nickname Tryn is the name of the flagship restaurant, and the Five Lives red blend commemorates the adventurous chapters of her courageous and resilient pioneer life.
What’s on offer

• 24 rooms and suites (including one-bedroom suites, two-bedroom and three-bedroom villas)
• Tryn for signature contemporary cuisine
• Bistro Sixteen82 for tapas and bistro fare
• newly renovated spa with five treatment rooms; an outdoor thermal suite with sauna, Nordic ice-bucket shower and ice bath; Scented Garden and Secret Garden for outdoor treatments; Pool House with heated pool, loungers and mobile bar
• championship 18-hole golf course set amid fynbos
• wine-tasting and wine purchases at Steenberg Tasting Room (complimentary tasting for hotel guests)
• vineyard walks
• mountain-biking trails (complimentary mountain bikes available)

Perfect for nature lovers; wine connoisseurs; golf enthusiasts; families seeking space and outdoor activities.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R8 260 per room per night (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Dorp

Where Bo-Kaap
Impossible to describe and impossible to forget, this hotel on the upper slopes of Signal Hill has mastered the art of making something new look like it was always meant to be there. The layout – a dizzying variety of rooms, suites, studios and cottages nestled amid beautiful gardens, terraces and courtyards – creates a “mini village” (or dorp) for like minds with magnificent views of the city. The heart of the property is the Salon, a communal space for dining, drinking, reading, meeting or simply relaxing.
Insider detail The late, great designer-hotelier Gail Behr had a penchant for colour, texture and hyper-personal, quirky touches rather than sleek lines and whitewashed furnishings, which has resulted in a heartachingly stylish haven.
What’s on offer 

• 40 rooms
• private terrace, patio, garden, balcony or courtyard (Classic Rooms, Superior Rooms, Gallery Suites, Deluxe Suites, Companion Suites, Grand Suites)
• complimentary breakfast buffet
• on-site restaurant
• drawing room/lounge/library with fireplace
• plunge pool courtyard
• outdoor seating areas in magnificent gardens
• roof terrace
• small shop selling Dorp’s products and other items
• city centre attractions on the doorstep

Perfect for individual travellers looking for offbeat character and charm, romantic escapes and spectacular views.
Child friendly? Yes, 14 years or older
Pet friendly? Yes, in certain rooms and on a leash in public areas. Not allowed in main dining area.
Cost From R5 000 per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Labotessa

Where Cape Town Museum District
Rich heritage meets modern grandeur at this late-17th-century townhouse (one of the oldest buildings in South Africa) lovingly restored and converted into a luxurious hotel. Located on historic Church Square, the elegant residence has a decidedly European feel. It’s all very stylish, with a moody-blue colour palette that feels like you’re stepping into a Vermeer painting, but with contemporary-luxe decor.
Insider detail The elevator opens into your suite, there’s newspaper delivery and a terrace café at which to enjoy coffee, wines and seasonal meals.
What’s on offer

• 6 Signature Suites with king-size beds, all overlooking Church Square and Lion’s Head
• double-storey three-bedroom Presidential Suite with plunge pool and private chef
• Diptyque in-room amenities
• in-room dining
• complimentary breakfast (all day)
• Café (open to public) serving breakfast, lunch and sharing platters in the evening
• Diptyque fragrance boutique (open to public)
• access to nearby gym and pool facilities
• concierge and butler service
• in-room spa treatments

Perfect for urbanites who love being in the heart of the city, as it’s a (cobble)stone’s throw from popular shops, top restaurants and cultural landmarks.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R13 900 per night
R1 500 per child (rollaway bed)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Future Found Sanctuary

Where Hout Bay
Serene, tranquil and embraced by lush gardens and trees on the lower slopes of Table Mountain, Future Found Sanctuary Luxury Boutique Hotel brings a new meaning to the term regenerative travel. Combining five-star comfort, striking elemental design, a private art collection and beautifully curated furnishings, it’s also about going inwards, with an expansive menu of yoga and wellness offerings that give body and soul a place to reset and regroup; and thoughtful and engaging menus designed around produce from the gardens.
Insider detail Over five acres of serene gardens encompass natural swimming pools filled from mountain streams, meditation lawns, healing gardens cultivated by horticulturalist Cherise Viljoen (formerly of Kirstenbosch), and trails leading onto the mountain.
What’s on offer

• Maison Noir: a five-bedroom villa with a Grand Master Suite, Master Suite and three suites with lofts
• Villa Verte: four opulent bedrooms and sweeping vistas from its perch on the slopes of Table Mountain
• Mountain View Villa: an exclusive-use two-bedroom villa
• 2 Forest Pods immersed in nature
• private chef
• swimming pools at each villa
• natural cold plunge pool
• three-room spa
• steam room
• yoga deck and studio
• state-of-the-art gym
• guided hikes
• top restaurants + wine tastings in nearby Constantia Valley

Perfect for a restorative retreat or romantic break in nature without the drive.
Child friendly? 12 years or older (or any age if booking a villa for exclusive use)
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R9 500 per room in low season; from R12 500 per room in high season.
MAKE A RESERVATION

21 Nettleton

Where Clifton
Hugging the fynbos-dotted slopes of Lion’s Head, 21 Nettleton occupies pride of place at the very top of what might be the most elite avenue in Cape Town. Boasting a palatial Tuscan-style exterior, with 360-degree views over Clifton and Camps Bay and the sparkling ocean beyond, it offers the ultimate trifecta in luxury: unique design, a killer location and superb service. The curated collection of quirky artworks and antique furniture throughout provides a truly gorgeous backdrop to living the high life.
Insider detail The Superior Oceanfront Suite is super-romantic with a feature bath; the Grand Master Suite has a Steinway grand piano and library; and the Penthouse has a drawing room with a fireplace among its many drawcards.
What’s on offer

• 5 suites with private furnished oceanfront terrace (except Lion’s Head room)
• penthouse suite with several balconies and 360-degree panoramic views
• complimentary full breakfast
• communal lounge and bar
• swimming pool
• sauna and steam room
• gorgeous mountainside garden with koi pond
• private access to hiking trails on Lion’s Head
• complimentary all-day snacks, afternoon tea and sunset canapés
• picnics and outdoor dinners available
• 24-hour concierge and butler
• in-house personal trainer
• wellness treatments

Perfect for seekers after privacy, personalised luxury and spectacular sunsets.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Cost From R24 000 per room per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel

Where Gardens
This is no regular boutique hotel; it’s a national monument, housed in what was once a townhouse that dates back to the early 1800s. With high ceilings, chequered floors, shuttered windows and a deep verandah, it offers a wonderful and peaceful contrast to the buzz of nearby Kloof Street. Dressed in stylish white, black and emerald, the combination of heritage architecture and contemporary interiors sets the scene for a central stay laced with luxury. There’s an overriding sense of tranquillity here, with warm hospitality, plush lodgings and discretion a given.
Insider detail The leafy pool courtyard is an oasis of relaxation; while at the acclaimed restaurant, Upper Union, chef Amori Burger serves up food for the creative and curious with fine wines and bespoke cocktails.
What’s on offer

• 29 rooms (six Classic, seven Luxury, six Superior Luxury, 10 Stable Suites)
• private balcony, Juliet balcony or patio (except Classic rooms)
• complimentary breakfast
• complimentary afternoon drinks and canapés
• two courtyards with heated swimming pools
• sunroom-library
• botanical conservatory
• lounge with a fireplace
• on-site bar and restaurant
• spa and fitness centre
• complimentary transfers to the V&A Waterfront
• private travel/tour concierge

Perfect for independent travellers who want to live like locals in the buzzy Kloof Street neighbourhood
Good to know The Cape Cadogan Residence alongside is a family home available for exclusive use. It has three bedrooms, its own pool, a breakfast chef and access to the hotel’s facilities.
Child friendly? Yes, 10 years and older (all ages in Stable Suites and Cape Cadogan Residence)
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R8 695 per night
Plus R160 impact levy per room per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel

Where Constantia
Part of the esteemed Liz McGrath Collection (that falls under Small Luxury Hotels of the World), this five-star property combines modern luxury with historic charm, against a backdrop of gardens, woodlands, vineyards and Table Mountain looming in the distance. Set in the picturesque Constantia Winelands, a mere 15-minute drive from Cape Town’s city centre, this beautiful escape is a veritable oasis, making the outside world seem far away. With a blissful garden-inspired restaurant, sumptuous spa, chichi martini bar and 3.6 hectares of award-winning landscaped gardens, there’s really not much reason to leave…
Insider detail The gardens feature numerous plant varieties, including rose and herb gardens, indigenous plantings, mountain streams and ponds, as well as a forest of camphor trees (some dating back 300 years), tempting you to wandering strolls where you might spot the resident porcupine, cheeky squirrels, or a Cape dwarf chameleon.
What’s on offer

• 51 rooms and suites
• Liz McGrath Villa (two bedrooms, private dining room, kitchen and lounge)
• Madiba Villa (three bedrooms, private dining room, kitchen, lounge and swimming pool)
• The Conservatory restaurant, in an idyllic garden setting, for breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Classic High Tea (on Saturday + Sunday)
• spa with six treatment rooms, steam room and sauna
• two heated swimming pools
• gym
• tennis court
• croquet and petanque on the lawns
• mountain-bikes available to hire

Perfect for garden enthusiasts; wine lovers exploring the Constantia wine route; guests seeking a luxury country estate ambience and tranquillity.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Cost From R5 228 per room per night (breakfast included)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Botany House Boutique Retreat

Where Gardens
A tranquil hidden retreat at the top of Gardens, Botany House Boutique Retreat is nestled in lush foliage offering secret glimpses of Table Mountain through the trees. A true home from home, Botany House offers just five luxurious, spacious suites – each with its own private entrance from the garden. Some feature secluded private garden terraces, while others open directly onto the inviting heated swimming pool. With contemporary interiors of elegance and utter, lose-yourself-in comfort, it’s a serene place to call home and return to for a breather in between immersive forays into Cape Town’s vibrant energy.
Insider detail Every piece, from artworks to individual furnishings, has been thoughtfully sourced from local designers in Cape Town and South Africa.
What’s on offer

• 5 exquisitely designed suites
• fresh, healthy breakfast smoothies and freshly squeezed juices
• heated swimming pool
• lush, landscaped gardens
• personal concierge service
• private yoga sessions
• wellness treatments
• in easy walking distance of Kloof Street’s restaurants and bars

Perfect for couples seeking an oasis of tranquility after a day exploring the city.
Good to know The whole property can be booked on an exclusive-use basis or for events.
Child-friendly? 12 years or older only
Pet-friendly? No
Cost R4 900 – R9 500 per suite per night
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Kensington Place

Where Higgovale
Perched on the slopes of Table Mountain, in leafy best-kept-secret Higgovale, this garden oasis is a peaceful retreat above the city with bougainvillea-draped verandah, pool deck and stunning views of the mountain and city. Indoors, it’s as calm, cool and sophisticated as a gallery (filled with artworks and striking wallpaper) with just eight spacious suites. It’s slightly removed from the vibey streets of Gardens and the innercity, but close enough to easily dip in and out of the scene.
Insider detail This boutique lodging may be small but it has all the “big hotel” offerings – from a pillow menu and an impeccable service team to all-day-and-evening dining and a barman on hand to mix up your favourite sundowner.
What’s on offer

• 8 suites (1 Standard Room and 7 Superior Rooms) with private balconies
• king-size extra-length beds
• yoga mats and light weights
• complimentary “anytime” breakfast (in room or in bed optional)
• in-house chef for lunch and dinner
• dining room and bar area
• communal lounge-library with fireplace
• plunge pool with loungers
• verandah and garden seating
• in-room spa treatments
• complimentary voucher for nearby gym
• concierge and tour services

Perfect for couples seeking romantic stays and peaceful escapes within a stone’s throw of city attractions and Table Mountain hikes.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Cost Standard Room: from R6 500 per night
Superior Room: from R8 000 per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Tintswalo Atlantic

Where Hout Bay
Perched right on the rocky shores below Chapman’s Peak Drive outside Hout Bay, this luxurious and intimate lodge looks out at Atlantic Ocean waves, Hout Bay and The Sentinel mountain beyond. Hidden from passing travellers, Tintswalo Atlantic is only reachable by the resident shuttle, which transports guests from the car park off the main road steeply down to the lodge on the shore below, where an unparalleled seaside setting awaits. Wake up to the smell of crisp sea air and the sound of lapping waves outside your suite. At sunset, saunter onto the deck of the residents’ lounge for complimentary canapés and the cocktail of the day as the sun dips into the ocean.
Insider detail There’s a tradition for departing guests to cast a pebble over their shoulder into the ocean and make a wish… it all started when owner Lisa Goosen and her family saw the derelict buildings on the shore and threw a coin into the water, wishing for the chance to turn this special spot into a boutique hotel. A few months later that wish came true and they were granted the concession on this small pocket of Table Mountain National Park… the rest is history.
What’s on offer

• 10 suites (with fireplaces and private balconies) offering uninterrupted ocean views
• Chefs Warehouse for a contemporary small plates set menu (lunch and dinner)
• ocean-facing deck for pre-dinner sundowners
• residents’ lounge and bar
• spa treatments
• sea-facing heated swimming pool and sun loungers
• beachcombing and rockpooling in a small private cove (tide dependent)
• gift shop

Perfect for romantic escapes; ocean lovers; guests seeking total privacy in a dramatic coastal setting.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Cost from R9 920 per suite per night (breakfast included)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Camissa House

Where Oranjezicht
Camissa House sits at the foot of the fynbos-clad mountain, overlooking the peaceful, leafy suburbs of the City Bowl to the sea beyond. This designer mountainside hideaway is characterised by lofty, contemporary architecture, trickling water features, wooden accents, touches of greenery and breathtaking views. You’ll feel immersed in nature, whether reclining in your luxury bedroom (with decor inspired by the Cape Floral Kingdom) or gazing at the world wonder that is Table Mountain as you float in the rim-flow pool.
Insider detail The name Camissa (the KhoiSan word for “place of sweet waters”) refers to the streams that flow under the city from Table Mountain, all clean and pure and fresh.
What’s on offer

• 8 rooms (5 Luxury and 3 Terrace) with king-size beds
• private balcony (in Terrace rooms)
• 24-hour butler service
• complimentary breakfast (in bed if you like)
• complimentary afternoon tea in the atrium (or evening canapés and cocktails in winter)
• rim-flow swimming pool
• library-lounge with fireplace
• cocktail bar with complimentary drinks
• rooftop relaxation area
• complimentary dinner transfers to city restaurants (5pm – 11pm)
• concierge service

Perfect for travellers who want the best of both worlds. It’s a gorgeous oasis that’s just five minutes away from the buzz of downtown.
Child friendly? Yes, 12 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R10 935 per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

Pineapple House

Where Sea Point
Evolving from its past status as a rare and luxurious fruit, pineapples traditionally symbolise welcome, hospitality, warmth and friendship, and this pink-walled boutique bolthole extends that and more. The discreet urban oasis delivers a warm atmosphere, eclectic decor, designer furnishings and luxe comfort, just a short walk from bars, restaurants, shops and the buzzing Sea Point Promenade – sunset strolls are a prerequisite. It’s an exuberantly elegant style that will transport you to exotic places.
Insider detail The bedrooms, over three floors, are all beautifully and individually decorated in playful themes – some with vibrant wallpaper, some with ice-cream-coloured walls or exposed brick, others in more muted natural or pastel tones.
What’s on offer

• 14 rooms (Classic, Superior, Deluxe, Premier or Family)
• 2 suites: Grand Pineapple and Penthouse
• private balcony or direct pool patio access (selected rooms)
• complimentary breakfast
• 2 communal lounges with a fireplace
• 2 dining rooms and kitchen areas
• deck with two plunge pools and loungers
• contemporary art throughout (all for sale)
• in-house branded sleepwear (for sale)
• 24-hour concierge
• city tours on request

Perfect for lovers of sea breezes and Sea Point’s quirky vibe. It’s within easy walking distance of Regent Road’s cluster of cool eateries and the Promenade.
Good to know One self-contained section of the property can be rented as an exclusive-use villa with five bedrooms; another can be rented as an exclusive-use villa with nine bedrooms.
Child friendly? Yes; Penthouse Suite with sleeper couch
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R3 000 per night
Suite: From R6 000 per night
Family Suite: From R9 000 per night
MAKE A RESERVATION

The Alphen Boutique Hotel

Where Constantia
About Once a wine estate and working farm, this long-standing Constantia stalwart reveals centuries of historic charm, set in 4.6 hectares of lush manicured gardens. Following an exciting revamp, including crisp new interiors and the addition of a boutique spa, heated pool and gym, the Alphen’s three manor houses retain their timeless ambience, while offering layers of modern comfort. Plus it’s home to two restaurants and a chic cocktail bar set against the beautiful backdrop of the Constantia Winelands.
Insider detail Dating back to the 1700s, on the guest list from the distant past have been Cecil John Rhodes, Lord Charles Somerset, Mark Twain and Captain Cook
What’s on offer

• 18 suites adorned with French panelling and marble (Classic, Superior and Deluxe suites spread across The Dower and Mill Range houses)
• private patio in Deluxe rooms
• La Belle Bistro for breakfast, lunch and baked treats
• Blanko for contemporary Italian cuisine
• boutique spa
• Incognito bar
• heated swimming pool
• on-site gym

Perfect for nature lovers and families who’ll enjoy having the Constantia Green Belt and network of trails right on their doorstep.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Cost From R8 950 per room per night (depending on season and room type)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT