The Best Hotels in Cape Town

With hundreds of beautiful hotels across Cape Town’s many neighbourhoods, finding the perfect place to stay can be a challenge to say the least, especially as a first time visitor.  With Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean, and one of South Africa’s oldest wine regions at your doorstep, Cape Town has a notable natural scenic appeal that deserves to be celebrated.  Here, we’ve rounded up the best hotels in Cape Town – from boutique gems to top-shelf luxury, there’s something for every kind of traveller.

Dorp Hotel

Located high on the slopes of Signal Hill in the historic Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, the new Dorp Hotel has unparalleled views of Table Mountain and the city below. This compound of Georgian-inspired buildings with its lively gardens and artfully curated decor is nothing short of magical.  Hotelier Gail Behr is known for her astonishing attention to detail, and guests will be delighted when discovering little surprises such as an unexpected textile on a sofa.  An array of grand indoor plants combined with her thoughtfully selected mix of antique, opulent and quirky pieces creates a luxurious yet nostalgic atmosphere. Each of the rooms is completely different in character, which will undoubtedly encourage you to return for another stay.

Ellerman House

Art lovers looking for luxury accommodation should look no further than the iconic Ellerman House.  National treasures are displayed on every wall of this exquisite Edwardian mansion, even in the bedrooms.  This establishment also boasts its very own contemporary gallery located in the gardens.  Ellerman House’s idyllic cliffside location in Bantry Bay offers guests spectacular ocean and mountain views, and although it may not be within walking distance of the beaches and restaurants, the hotel offers complimentary transfers to the Waterfront, city centre and beaches which are all a quick 10-minute drive away.

Cape Cadogan

Not only is Cape Cadogan one of the best hotels in Cape Town, but it’s also one of its best-kept secrets. This heritage house is inconspicuously tucked away in the city’s Gardens-area, just off trendy Kloof Street. Most major attractions are a short drive away, and some of the area’s best restaurants are within walking distance. Ambient noise from the nearby bars are typical on weekends, but never disruptive. Facilities may seem limited due to it being a small urban property, but thanks to doting and attentive staff, guests will always have whatever they need at this home away from home.  After spending the day exploring the city or catching some rays at one of the best beaches in Cape Town, the little plunge pool is perfect for guests who want to cool off on a balmy night. On the colder evenings, cosy up next to the fireplace in the lounge with complimentary drinks.

The Silo

The Silo Hotel and adjoining Zeitz MOCAA are nothing short of architectural masterpieces. Its diamond-shaped, floor to ceiling convex windows give guests unbeatable views of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head, and Signal Hill.  Everything exudes luxury and style, and with its 5-star service and amenities, guests will feel like absolute royalty. The Granary Cafe boasts a well-crafted menu and is a great choice for any meal of the day. If it’s a glass of wine or cheeky cocktail that you’re looking for, the Willaston Bar is one of the chicest new spots in the city and looks as though James Bond would frequent it (hypothetically speaking).

Belmond Mount Nelson

This historic hotel which first opened its doors in 1899 encapsulates old-world glamour.  Affectionately known as “the Nellie” by locals, guests approach the iconic pink hotel along a palm tree-lined driveway on arrival.  Admiring the property’s oasis-like garden from the terrace easily makes up for the lack of ocean and mountain views.  The Planet Bar is a popular watering hole among Capetonians for after-work drinks, so hotel guests might find themselves mingling with some of the city’s sophisticated locals. Whether you find yourself staying at the Nellie or not, no visit to Cape Town is complete without experiencing one of their incredible High Teas.

Tintswalo Atlantic

At the end of a private pathway that meanders through fynbos and milkwood trees, this remote lodge located in the Table Mountain National Park is almost entirely hidden from view. Tintswalo Atlantic consists of 11 luxury cabins tucked away on a pebbled beach, just far enough from the hustle and bustle of exciting Cape Town. The suites’ large sliding doors open to a wooden deck with unrivaled views of the Sentinel in Hout Bay. The wonderful breakfasts and dinners prepared by executive chef Jeantelle Van Staden are included in the rates, and guests are welcome to make menu suggestions.  After spending a few days dipping in the cool ocean water (or the lodge’s heated pool), walking along the surrounding trails, and being looked after by a dedicated team of hotel staff, you could almost expect to forget about the outside world.

Gorgeous George

The clever use of Victorian-inspired fittings and decor combined with exposed steelwork gives this new inner-city hotel its chic, eclectic feel earning Gorgeous George a spot on our best hotels in Cape Town list. Located in the pedestrian-only street St George’s Mall, guests are only a short walk away from restaurants and shops, as well as the Company’s Gardens, the Bo-Kaap neighbourhood and Greenmarket Square. The conservatory-style Gigi Rooftop restaurant-bar is relaxed yet upscale, and one can easily spend the entire day lounging by the plunge pool on the connecting raised wooden deck. Sink into the couch with a signature cocktail as the sounds of the city from below start to lull during sunset.

Cellars-Hohenort Hotel

Nestled in the picturesque and historic Constantia Valley is the beautiful Cellars-Hohenort Hotel.  With views of Table Mountain and their lush award-winning gardens, you’d be hard-pressed to find a spot that compares.  Once a farm in the 17th-century that belonged to the chief surgeon of the Dutch East India Company, the exquisite property encapsulates its early dutch heritage and exudes a warm and homey charm.  While the hotel itself is something to admire, their restaurant, Greenhouse, has been dubbed one of South Africa’s best restaurants.  Start your gastronomical experience with a bespoke cocktail at the Greenhouse Bar before tucking into an ‘African Hunter’ tasting menu that celebrates local ingredients and flavours.

Cape View Clifton

Dream of waking up on your holiday to endless views of the coastline? This elegant beach boutique hotel situated on the slopes of Lions Head in one of Cape Town’s hottest suburbs, Clifton, strikes the perfect balance between luxury and relaxation.  Spend afternoons lazing by the pool in the warm African sun with waves crashing down below or adventure out to the city’s main attractions a mere 10 minutes away.  If it’s a spot that offers perfect sunset views that you’re looking for, then the Cape View Clifton is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in Cape Town for you.

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