A killer setting, world-class facilities and generous service shoot these properties to the top of our bucket list.
Cape Town has been voted Best City in The World by The Telegraph – for seven consecutive years – an undeniably flattering feather in our collective cap, and one we wear with pride. (Not that we need an international survey to tell us how beautiful our city is.)
To save you the legwork, our scouts went in search of the hottest properties in the city using the following criteria to make our selection: a killer location, faultless design, generous service, inconspicuous luxury and a unique personality.
And here’s what we found… These are the best luxury hotels in Cape Town.
Which are your favourite? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.
The Silo Hotel
Where V&A Waterfront
About 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 decked-out interior, by owner Liz Biden, welcomes guests to an unforgettable experience where luxe comfort, warm and friendly service, contemporary dining and a sun-kissed rooftop pool await.
The lodgings
- 28 rooms and suites (Silo Rooms, Duplex Suites and Deluxe Superior Suites each sleeping 2, Family Duplex Suites and Royal Suites each sleeping 4)
- 1 Penthouse Suite sleeping 2 to 4, with a cinema room, spa treatment room, two walk-in wardrobes, two marble bathrooms and two balconies
- en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower
- private balcony
- lounge area
- complimentary wifi
- contemporary African art selection
- harbour and/or mountain views
- mini bar
- air-conditioning
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- The Granary Café for lunch, tea, dinner
- tailored art tours at The Vault, the hotel’s exclusive gallery
- Zeitz MOCAA, the world’s largest contemporary African art museum
- The Silo Spa
- The Willaston Bar for cocktails
- The Silo Rooftop for sundowners
- rooftop swimming pool
- private dining for up to 22 guests in The Wisdom Room
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R14 500 per room per night (depending on season and room type)
MAKE A RESERVATION
Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel
Where Gardens
About When it comes to Cape Town icons, few can compare with the majestic Mount Nelson. Set in the vibrant heart of Cape Town, this luxurious five-star hotel is cradled in a lush garden at the foot of Table Mountain, creating a tranquil oasis that delightfully combines discretion and glamour (which is perhaps why many international celebrities choose to stay here). Justifiably famous for its exquisite high tea, superb cuisine, oasis-like gardens and a rejuvenating spa, it’s easy to forget that it’s a hotel first and foremost.
Fun fact The hotel was built in the 19th century, when crinoline (hoop skirts) were en vogue, which is why the corridors are so wide – there’s sufficient space for two women to pass one another comfortably.
The lodgings
- 198 rooms and suites (Superior and Deluxe rooms, Junior, Studio, Deluxe Junior, Deluxe Studio, One Bedroom, Deluxe One Bedroom Suites, Presidential Suite and Garden Cottages)
- 1 Presidential Suite (with an entrance hall, plush bedroom, dining area, large lounge, wet bar, and balcony with loungers)
- 6 Garden Cottage Suites next to the rose garden behind a white picket fence (with a lounge, bedroom, and a kitchen)
- the Honeysuckle Garden Cottage next to the rose garden behind a white picket fence (with 2 bedrooms, a lounge, and 2 kitchens)
- en-suite bathroom with separate bath and shower
- spacious sitting area in select rooms
- luxury toiletries
- widescreen smart TV
- iPod dock in select rooms
- complimentary wifi
- air-conditioning
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast at Oasis Bistro
- Planet Bar for small plates, cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits
- Librisa Spa for an array of spa treatments (opens late-November)
- The Lounge for lunch and dinner
- family-friendly swimming pool with pool service from Oasis Bistro
- quiet adult-only swimming pool
- afternoon tea (Friday to Sunday)
- gym
- yoga studio
- tennis court
- children’s club (opens in December)
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R4 950 per room per night (depending on room type and season)
MAKE A RESERVATION
Dorp Hotel
Where Bo Kaap
About Impossible to describe and impossible to forget, Dorp Hotel in the Bo Kaap has wonderfully mastered the art of making something new look like it was always meant to be there. Aesthetic maximalism is the modus operandi for this hillside hotel, thanks to designer and hotelier Gail Behr’s penchant for colour, texture and hyper-personal touches rather than sleek lines and whitewashed furnishings. There is no spa, no conference room, and no gym – and yet you’ll have everything you need in Dorp’s fully equipped designer kitchens (available in eight of the suites) and collaborative drawing-room. There is arguably no more unique space in Cape Town, nor one with better views of Table Mountain.
The lodgings
- 10 category E suites (terrace upstairs, compound rooms and guest houses)
- 7 category D suites (terrace kitchen rooms and arcadia rooms)
- 6 category C suites (arcadia, moon basement, noon kitchen, noon greenhouse and compound studios)
- 2 category B suites (moon and compound family suites)
- 2 category A suites (rose cottage and rooftop suite)
- en-suite bathroom with shower and/or bath
- private terraces, patios and courtyard areas for select suites
- pool access for select suites
- fully equipped kitchens with Smeg appliances in select suites
- underfloor heated bathrooms
- smart TV with full media centre
- luxury Dorp toiletries
- homemade linen dressing gowns
- complimentary wifi
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- café offering drinks, pastries and light meals, such as steak rolls and roast chicken and chips
- drawing-room/ lounge area
- outdoor seating areas
- magnificent gardens with indigenous plants, herbs and fruit trees close enough to steal a lemon for your gin and tonic
- terrace roof with extraordinary city and harbour views, and a soon-to-be-completed tomato greenhouse
- small shop selling Dorp’s homemade products, Homework clothing and other items
Insider info Onder Dorp is opening in March 2022, a separate property with three new pools, 16 new rooms (all with kitchens), a teaching kitchen for cooking weekends, a small spa and a rooftop gym – plus a venue for small conferences, pop-up shops, private dinners, kitchen teas and the like.
Please note The hotel does not hold a liquor license out of respect for the Muslim community of Bo Kaap, however, you are welcome to bring your own drinks or request the hotel to purchase for you. All mixers are available.
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost R2 800 per room per night (depending on season)
MAKE A RESERVATION
The Cellars-Hohenort Hotel
Where Constantia
About 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, with a backdrop of gardens and 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 superb restaurant, sumptuous spa, a chichi martini bar and 3.6 hectares of award-winning landscaped gardens, there’s really not much reason to leave…
The lodgings
- 51 rooms, suites and villas (divided into Double Rooms, Luxury Double Rooms, Suites, Premier Suites and Villas)
- en-suite bathroom with a shower and a bath
- flat-screen TV with select DStv channels
- welcome bottle of wine
- complimentary minibar items
- complimentary newspaper every morning
- complimentary wifi
- fluffy bathrobes and luxury bathroom amenities
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- select rooms feature a spacious lounge
- air-conditioning
- 2-bedroom Liz McGrath Villa (with a private dining room, kitchen, and lounge)
- 3-bedroom Madiba Villa (with a private dining room, kitchen, lounge, and swimming pool)
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- The Conservatory, an elegant, country-style restaurant
- spa
- picnics in the award-winning gardens
- gym
- tennis court
- high tea
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R4 240 per room per night (depending on room type and season)
MAKE A RESERVATION
Tintswalo Atlantic
Where Hout Bay
About On the rocky shores of Chapman’s Peak Drive in Hout Bay, this luxurious lodge overlooks the endless Atlantic Ocean and The Sentinel 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 right 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 main deck for complimentary canapés and the cocktail of the day as the sun dips into the ocean.
The lodgings
- 8 suites (and 1 two-bedroom suite) each offering uninterrupted ocean views
- en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower
- private balcony
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- luxury amenities
- complimentary wifi
- air-conditioning
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- Chefs Warehouse (for lunch and dinner)
- ocean-facing deck for pre-dinner sundowners
- spa treatments
- sea-facing heated swimming pool and sun loungers
- gift shop
Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost SA Residents Special: From R4 975 per suite per night (valid until 19 December 2021)
Rack rate: From R7100 per suite per night (depending on season)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Steenberg Hotel
Where Tokai
About In the Constantia Valley, overlooking False Bay, Steenberg Farm is a luxurious five-star hotel situated on the oldest farm in the Constantia Winelands, founded in 1682. Home to a championship golf course, two acclaimed restaurants, a contemporary tasting room and a serene spa, all set on immaculate grounds with spectacular vineyard and mountain vistas, it’s a destination in its own right.
The hotel’s 25 beautifully decorated rooms vary in size and splendour (from standard rooms to a three-bedroom villa), with everything you need for a blissful home-from-home escape.
The lodgings
- 25 rooms and suites (Standard, Superior, Family and Premier Rooms; One-Bedroom, Two-Bedroom and Three-Bedroom Villa Suites)
- en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower
- lounge area
- private balcony in select rooms
- DStv and Netflix in all rooms, suites and villas
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- complimentary wifi
- air conditioning
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- Bistro Sixteen82 for tapas and bistro fare
- signature contemporary cuisine at Tryn
- spa treatments
- championship 18-hole golf course
- wine-tasting and purchases at Steenberg Vineyards (tasting included for hotel guests)
- vineyard walks
- mountain-biking trails
- sun-soaked swimming pool and sun lawn
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R4 100 per room per night (depending on room type and season)
MAKE A RESERVATION
Gorgeous George
Where CBD
About The first South African addition to the Design Hotels stable of 300 privately owned, “design-forward and culturally rooted” hotels worldwide, it’s no surprise that incredible design is around every corner at Gorgeous George. But it’s the sumptuous furnishings, attentive service and vibey sixth-floor rooftop bar, Gigi, that elevate this stylish spot to the next level. Housed in what were two (carefully renovated) innercity heritage buildings – one Edwardian, one Art Deco – the hotel has been stylishly decorated; works by some of the hottest local design talents (including Lucie de Moyencourt, David Krynauw and David Brits) add artistic flair. The 32 exquisite rooms blend plush Victorian-style furniture with chic lighting and hand-painted wall art in the most delicious way – creating the perfect haven to rest your head after a night out on the town.
The lodgings
- 32 rooms (divided into studios, and to one or two-bedroom suites)
- en-suite bathroom with a rain shower and/or bath
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- smart TV
- separate lounge in the suites
- complimentary wifi
- fully-stocked mini bar
- air-conditioning
- Marshall speaker
What’s on offer
- breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails served at Gigi Rooftop
- rooftop swimming pool and loungers
- overnight valet parking
- complimentary gym access
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R4 500 per room per night (depending on room type and season)
MAKE A RESERVATION
Camissa House
Where Oranjezicht
About The name Camissa (the Khoi Khoi word for “place of sweet waters”) refers to the streams that flow under the city from Table Mountain, all clean and pure and fresh. And so it is with Camissa House, which sits right on the border of the fynbos-clad Table Mountain National Park, overlooking the peaceful, leafy suburb of Oranjezicht, with views of the city and sea beyond. The sister property of the equally attractive MannaBay Boutique Hotel just down the road, Camissa is characterised by lofty, contemporary architecture, trickling water features, wooden accents and touches of greenery. You’ll feel immersed in nature, whether reclining in one of the eight luxury rooms, whose decor is inspired by the Cape Floral Kingdom, or gazing at the world wonder that is Table Mountain. If you can, choose one of the three terraced rooms. You’ll spend time afloat in the rim-flow pool, and can dip into the city as required to explore restaurants, art galleries and nightlife – all just a five-minute drive away!
The lodgings
- 8 individually decorated rooms (divided into Luxury Rooms and Luxury Terrace Rooms)
- en-suite bathroom with a shower and/or bath
- private balcony or terrace with seating area
- Marshall speaker
- flat-screen smart TV
- Africology toiletries
- air-conditioning
- complimentary wifi
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- rim-flow swimming pool
- complimentary bar and lounge
- rooftop relaxation area
- daily high tea
Child friendly? Yes, 12 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R6 200 per room per night
MAKE A RESERVATION
The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa
Where Camps Bay
About This five-star boutique hotel and spa at the foot of the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range boasts a host of wonderful facilities, but its dreamy location – between mountain and sea – is perhaps what sets it apart. From sunrise to sunset, the glistening ocean provides the perfect backdrop to a sumptuous stay of rest and relaxation, while beautifully manicured gardens surrounded by the wild mountain landscape create an overriding sense of tranquillity.
The lodgings
- 55 deluxe guest rooms (Classic, Milkwood, Mountain Facing, Luxury and Superior Sea Facing rooms)
- 15 Luxurious Suites (One Bedroom, Sea-Facing, Presidential and Grand Master suites)
- en-suite bathroom with a bath and/or shower
- private balcony or patio
- 24-hour room service
- air-conditioning
- entertainment centres with DVD
- complimentary wifi
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast (with fresh oysters and champagne)
- 4 restaurants and bars (namely The Leopard Bar, Azure, The Café Grill and Sushi by 12A Sushi Bar and The Apostles Braai)
- treatments at the award-winning spa
- 16-seater private cinema
- pre-prepared private picnics overlooking the ocean
- gin-tasting and gin-making workshops
- helicopter and helipad
- high tea (traditional and vegan)
- nearby Clifton and Camps Bay beach
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R6 848 per room per night (depending on season)
MAKE A RESERVATION
One&Only Cape Town
Where V&A Waterfront
About On the edge of the marina at the buzzing V&A Waterfront, hugged by views of Table Mountain, this glamorous resort raises the bar, with its top-drawer dining offerings, luxurious accommodation and world-class facilities. Which is why it’s unsurprisingly a bucket-list must-do for so many discerning travellers (and celebrities, too). Another luxurious feather in its cap is its island spa, surrounded by palm-treed gardens and waterways, creating the impression of being far removed from the bustle of the city. Despite its central location, the One&Only offers guests space, tranquillity and superb service – you feel as if you are on a remote island resort.
The lodgings
- 92 rooms and suites in the seven-storey main “Marina Rise” building, offering views of the harbour and Table Mountain (available with one or two bedrooms)
- 40 rooms and suites across the resort’s ‘island’ surrounded by water and offering views of the marina (available with one or two bedrooms)
- private balcony
- en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- satellite TV
- complimentary wifi
- minibar
- Air-conditioning
- 1 Table Mountain Suite (1 bedroom, a dining room, kitchen, gym and private butler)
- 1 Presidential Suite (2 bedrooms, a dining room, kitchen, gym and private butler)
- The Devil’s Peak Penthouse (4 bedrooms, a study, library, gym, indoor and outdoor dining areas, lounges, kitchens, outdoor entertaining spaces, outdoor showers, 2 pools, and 2 bars)
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- Nobu restaurant for contemporary Japanese cuisine
- Isola restaurant for Mediterranean alfresco dining
- Vista Bar & Lounge serving cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits
- afternoon high tea
- business centre
- ballroom
- kids club with both outdoor and indoor play areas
- spa treatments and gym facilities
- swimming pool
- wine cellar
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R10 000 per room per night (depending on room type and season)
MAKE A RESERVATION
Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel
Where Gardens
About Just off Kloof Street, Cape Cadogan is no regular boutique hotel; it’s a national monument, housed in what was once a Georgian-Victorian townhouse dating back to the early 1800s. With high ceilings, checkered floors and a deep verandah, it offers a wonderful contrast to the buzz of the high street, and oozes an overriding sense of tranquility, where warm hospitality, plush lodgings and discretion are givens. The tasteful combination of contemporary decor and heritage architecture sets the scene for a central stay laced with luxury.
The lodgings
- 15 individually decorated rooms (Classic Single, Classic, Luxury, and a Superior Luxury Suite)
- en-suite bathroom with a shower and/or bath
- private balcony or patio (in Luxury and Superior Luxury Suites)
- private plunge pool in the Superior Luxury Suite
- smart TV with Netflix access
- seating area
- fireplace
- air-conditioning
- tea and coffee-making facilities
- minibar
- complimentary wifi
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- relaxation courtyard with outdoor seating area
- swimming pool
- lounge with a fireplace
- room service (lunch and dinner)
- on-site bar
- complimentary daily-scheduled transfers (within a 6km radius of the hotel)
- private travel concierge
Good to know Closed for renovations till 19 December
Child friendly? Yes, 10 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R4 240 per room per night (depending on season and room type)
MAKE A RESERVATION
The Alphen Boutique Hotel & Spa
Where Constantia
About Previously the living quarters of the wine estate’s inhabitants, this long-standing Constantia stalwart has mostly been lauded for its manicured gardens and historic charm. Following an exciting revamp, including crisp new interiors and the addition of a boutique spa, heated pool and gym, the Alphen retains its timeless charm, while offering modern comfort. A destination in its own right, the spectacular 4.6-hectare property is home to three manor houses, two restaurants and a chic cocktail bar set against the beautiful backdrop of the Constantia Winelands.
The lodgings
- 18 suites adorned with French panelling and marble (Classic, Superior and Deluxe suites spread across The Dower and Mill Range houses)
- en-suite bathroom with a rain shower and bath
- lounge area
- Marshall music box
- mini bar
- flat-screen TV
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- complimentary wifi
- air-conditioning
- private patio in Deluxe rooms
What’s on offer
- La Belle Bistro for breakfast, lunch and baked treats
- Blanko for contemporary Italian cuisine
- boutique spa
- Incognito bar
- heated swimming pool
- on-site gym
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R3 099 per room per night (depending on season and room type)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Pineapple House
Where Sea Point
About Conjuring fantasies of sipping Mai Tais on a beach in Hawaii, pineapples (according to the owners of this quirky pink-walled boutique bolthole) are synonymous with leisure and luxury the world over. So, it made perfect sense to name their stylish Sea Point spot after the yellow-hued fruit.
A warm, welcoming atmosphere, colourful decor and luxe comfort are all part and parcel of stays at this discreet hotel, whose central location is a short walk from bars, restaurants, shops, and the buzzing Sea Point promenade where sunset strolls are a prerequisite.
The lodgings
- 9 rooms over 4 floors, decorated to individual, playful themes
- en-suite bathroom with a rain shower
- private balcony or patio
- smart TV with Netflix access
- air-conditioning
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- fridge and minibar
- complimentary wifi
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- swimming pool
- freshly prepared meals
- contemporary art throughout the hotel
- relaxation lounge with a fireplace
- outdoor shower
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R2 098 per room per night (depending on season and room type)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Ellerman House
Where Bantry Bay
About With over 28 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 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, guests are provided with a wonderful sense of intimacy and 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.
The lodgings
- 13 house rooms and suites (Classic House Rooms, Superior House Rooms, Deluxe Spa Rooms, Deluxe House Rooms, and Ellerman House Suites)
- en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower
- ocean or mountain views
- private balcony
- lounge area
- dining area in the suites
- spa rooms have a private shared pool
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- satellite TV
- air-conditioning
- complimentary wifi
- Ellerman House Villa One (accommodates children, lounge and dining area, study and library, kitchen and private chef and hospitality team, swimming pool and deck, elevator) can be booked as an en-suite 3-bedroom villa, a 5-bedroom villa with access to the 2 Deluxe spa rooms below, or as an exclusive 5-bedroom villa including the entire spa area, the double treatment room, one spa therapist
- Ellerman House Villa Two (accommodates children 12 years and older, 3 en-suite bedrooms, lounge and dining area, kitchen and private chef and hospitality team, swimming pool and deck)
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- restaurant headed by chef Peter Templehoff
- spa treatments
- sauna, steam room, sensation shower
- spa swimming pool
- main swimming pool
- help-yourself-pantry filled with freshly made treats
- gym
- cocktail bar
- library
- exclusive art gallery
- wine and brandy tasting lounge
- sunset drinks and canapés
- free Zeitz MOCAA entry
- yoga on the lawn
Child friendly? Yes, 12 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R12 000 per room per night (depending on season and room type)
MAKE A RESERVATION
The Marly Boutique Hotel & Spa
Where Camps Bay
About Flaunting unbelievable 360-degree views of Camps Bay Beach and the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range, this spangly boutique hotel and spa offers guests a sumptuous seaside holiday with a sophisticated edge. A monochromatic palette of white, grey and black, coupled with a unique mix of contemporary art and decor – and a sexy soundtrack of chilled Del Mar-style beats – set the scene for days of poolside lounging, heavenly spa treatments and wonderful service in a sea-facing setting that’s tough to beat.
The lodgings
- 38 rooms and suites (Classic Sea-Facing and Mountain-Facing rooms, Studio Sea-Facing Room, Deluxe Sea-Facing Suites, Junior Sea-Facing Suites, Superior Sea-Facing and Mountain-Facing suites)
- extra-length king-size beds
- en-suite bathroom with a rain shower and/or bath
- private balcony with seating (in Classic Sea-Facing Rooms, Superior and Deluxe Sea-Facing Suites)
- multimedia entertainment system
- desk and dressing table
- Marshall bluetooth speaker
- lounge area
- complimentary refreshment bar
- espresso machine
- international plug points
- complimentary wifi
- air-conditioning
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- Baptiste Rooftop Bar & Pool
- The Marly Spa
- boutique
- gym
- restaurants, shops, and bars on the bustling Camps Bay strip
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R6 350 per night for two adults (depending on room type and season)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Harper’s House
Where Green Point
About In tune with its sister hotel Gorgeous George, Harpers House is an exquisite Victorian building dating back to 1892, tucked away on a narrow street just off of Green Point Main Road. Original wooden floors, winding staircases, a beautifully tended garden and a grand entrance set a sophisticated tone, with an intimate number of just eight rooms creating a more private experience. Each bedroom is adorned in a stylish mix of modern and classic furnishings, where hand-illustrated wallpaper, beautiful lighting and plush upholstery give it an interiors-magazine edge.
The lodgings
- 8 rooms (divided into superior and deluxe rooms)
- en-suite bathroom with a rain shower
- private terrace in select rooms
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- smart TV
- complimentary wifi
- air conditioning
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- Lord’s Library
- relaxation areas and pool deck
- shared plunge pool
- shops, restaurants and bars on your doorstep
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R1 500 per room per night (depending on season and room type)
MAKE A RESERVATION
21 Nettleton
Where Clifton
About Hugging the fynbos-dotted slopes of Lion’s Head, on what’s considered to be the most elite avenue in Cape Town, 21 Nettleton’s allure speaks for itself – occupying pride of place at the very top! Boasting a Tuscan-style palatial exterior, overlooking 360-degree views over Camps Bay and Clifton beaches, and the sparkling ocean beyond, the hotel offers sought-after discretion, unique decor in the form of quirky artworks, superb service and the feeling that you’re in your own home away from home.
The lodgings
- 5 rooms and suites (Lion’s Head Room, King Room, Queen Suite, Emperor Suite and Steinbach Suite)
- en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower
- private balcony
- shared lounge areas
- smart TV
- complimentary wifi
- tea- and coffee-making facility
- air-conditioning
- uninterrupted ocean views
- 1 Presidential Penthouse with 2 bathrooms, indoor and balcony dining areas, TV drawing room with a fireplace, spacious lounge, daybed relaxation area, tea- and coffee-making station
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- relaxation lounge with a grand piano
- swimming pool and expansive garden area
- private access to Lion’s Head hiking trails
- all-inclusive bars stocked with wine, spirits and beer
- sunset tapas
- sauna and steam room
- personalised in-room concierge iPad
- butler service
- complete privacy as the property is closed to the public
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R11 550 per room per night (depending on season and room type)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
The Vineyard Hotel
Where Newlands
Luxe factor Situated on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain on magnificent 2.8-hectare grounds, this heritage hotel in the southern suburbs has made a name for itself (among locals and out-of-towners) for its warm hospitality, excellent service and one of the dreamiest garden settings in Cape Town. The hotel is a lush oasis of rest and relaxation, with roaming tortoises, tweeting birds, and tranquil water features – all a mere 15-minute drive from the city centre.
The lodgings
- 114 courtyard-facing rooms (Deluxe and Standard)
- 60 mountain-facing rooms (Deluxe and Standard)
- 24 suites (Luxury, Junior, and Deluxe)
- spacious balcony
- en-suite bathroom with a shower and/or bath
- lounge area
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- flat-screen satellite TV
- stocked minibar
- 9 apartments (Deluxe or Standard, eco-friendly, with a kitchen, lounge, spacious balcony, one to two bedrooms, and one to two en-suite bathrooms)
- air conditioning
- complimentary wifi
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- The Square Restaurant for lunch, afternoon tea and casual dinner
- Garden Lounge for light snacks, cocktails, wine, and afternoon tea
- Splash Café for poolside cocktails and light meals
- Long Café for freshly brewed coffee, tea, cakes and pastries
- Angsana Spa
- fitness centre
- swimming pool
- guided garden walk
- on-site jogging route
- children’s activities
Child friendly? Yes
Cost From R2 145 per room per night (depending on season and room type)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
Old Foundry Hotel by Ideas Cartel
Where De Waterkant
About One look at the slick, up-to-the-minute interiors and carefully-thought-out array of facilities at this hot innercity hotel, it’s hard to believe it was once a commercial foundry (the first ever) dating back to 1876. An eclectic mix of old-world sophistication and modern style, this flagship property of Ideas Cartel is home to 24 beautifully dressed rooms, a gym, restaurant, co-working spaces and even a Golf Simulator! Located in the heart of De Waterkant, it’s central location is hard to beat.
The lodgings
- 24 rooms divided into Bijou Rooms, Studio Rooms and Master Suites
- king-size bed
- en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower (freestanding bathtub in Master suites)
- fully equipped kitchen (in Master Suites only)
- small lounge and workspace
- large smart TV
- digital concierge in each room
- stocked minibar
- tea-and coffee-making facilities
- air conditioning
- complimentary wifi
- laundry and housekeeping services
What’s on offer
- Misfits Restaurant for breakfast, light meals and beverages
- use of all members’ lounges and bars in this hotel, and across all Ideas Cartel properties in the innercity, including the rooftop bar and pool at Cartel House on Loop Street
- buzzy De Waterkant precinct on your doorstep
- on-site gym
- Golf Simulator
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R1 332 per room per night (depending on season and room type)
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT
POD Camps Bay
Where Camps Bay
About Bali-esque furnishings meet modern refinement at this Camps Bay retreat, where sleek architecture, wooden accents, greenery and water features create an intimate escape against a backdrop of mountain and sea views. A step out the front door and you’re immersed in the vibey atmosphere of the coastal strip of Camps Bay that brims with shops, restaurants and bars and, of course, a slew of blue-flag beaches.
The lodgings
- 17 rooms (Mini Mountain Rooms, Mountain Rooms, Classic Rooms, Luxury Rooms, Luxury Rooms with Plunge Pools, and Deluxe Suites)
- private balcony with sea or mountain views (in a Classic category or higher)
- en-suite bathroom with rain shower and/or bath
- lounge, bar, pool and outdoor lapa area
- flat-screen satellite TV with complimentary DVDs and popcorn
- iPod docking station
- complimentary wifi
- tea- and coffee-making facilities
- complimentary mini bar and treats
- air-conditioning and underfloor heating
What’s on offer
- complimentary daily breakfast
- sea-facing swimming pool
- cocktail bar and lounge area
- fitness centre
- late departure lounge with tranquil koi pond
- relaxation lapa area
- welcome drink on arrival and complimentary turn-downs for special occasions
Child friendly? Yes, over the age of 12
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Cost From R4 500 per night for two adults (depending on season and room type)
MAKE A RESERVATION
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11 Responses to “The 20 Best Hotels in Cape Town”
André
Nice post!! I stayed at this hotel, I loved the reception and the city
Gaby
Awesome list thank you!!! Loving this guide!
malcolm jacobs
what about the President ??????????
The Inside Guide
Thank you for your comment, Malcolm.
We love The President for its sea scraping setting and indulgent breakfast buffet, however, these are our top 20 hotels in Cape Town.
Frikkie
Looking at the price per night for these establishments our tourism industry is obviously in good shape
Ulrich Dannecker
I lived in Cape Town for most of my life, before circumstances resulted in a move to England. There isn’t a day when I don’t miss Cape Town and its surrounding areas. I can strongly recommend this destination to any discerning traveller.
Joseph Neethling
So the Cape Grace is not one of the best hotels in CapeTown???????? WOW!!!
Philip Engelen
I know strange it’s it , but may be hotels that don’t pay to be in this section are not included .
Joseph Neethling
In that case your your “twenty best hotels” is a misnomer and misleading.
The Inside Guide
Hi Philip, Joseph,
Apologies for our delayed response.
We can assure you that our list of the Best Hotels in Cape Town is an editorial feature – compiled at the discretion of the editorial team – and that no one paid to be included.
The featured establishments have been carefully chosen based on merit, following site visits that took place throughout the course of the year, and extensive ongoing research.
We do hope that you continue reading and sharing your thoughts!
Joseph Neethling
Absolute nonsense! Cape Grace was chosen as the best hotel in Cape Town by amongst many other international dignatories, the Clintons.