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The Cape Grace Hotel, in South Africa’s mother City of Cape Town, is the city’s top hotel experience. An elegant and stately building sitting against the city’s famous waterfront, you can’t help but be impressed when pulling-up through the gated drive. A warm welcome by the hotel’s staff in the living room-like lobby and you’re instantly at home. The hotel has hosted celebrities, head-of-state and everyday people – all treated the same.
120 rooms and suites, a spa, Bascule Whiskey Bar, Signal Restaurant and a sparkling pool all make for a well-rounded experience. I stayed here for three nights, each one of them fantastic. After landing in Cape Town in the evening, I arrived to the Cape Grace and was welcomed by the staff with a glass of champagne and speedy check-in. I was escorted to Bascule Whiskey bar, which impressed with a luxurious nautical theme, and indulged in a glass of Cabernet from South Africa’s Stellenbosch region. I then retired to one of the hotel’s gorgeous rooftop luxury rooms – with sweeping views of the city, waterfront, marina and Table Mountain.
The next morning, I enjoyed a decadent breakfast in the beautiful dining room – with local specialties – including South African milk tart (similar to a custard pie). I was then escorted to the rooftop spa, for a signature Kalahari massage. My therapist was sweet and knowledgeable, and massaged the jet lag away in no time. After that morning, I was ready to take-on the day – exploring the city’s Bo-Kaap neighborhood, Table Mountain Park and waterfront.
While at the Cape Grace, I experienced their fine dining restaurant, Signal, which was one of the best meals I’ve ever had in Cape Town. The chef specializes in cooking local dishes with international flavors – but you’ll find regional favorites like Kingklip white fish and Springbok, too. The service at the restaurant and throughout the hotel is exceptional. South African hospitality is remarkable in general, but add-in the fact that the concierge here is willing to organize custom itineraries and score hard-to-get reservations at favorites like La Colombe or Test Kitchen, and you have the perfect hotel experience. I can’t wait to return.
