Top 5 Hotel Picks for Cape Town, South Africa
Rooftop at The Silo Hotel
Cape Town had been on my bucket list FOREVER. I was so excited to see the penguins that the hotels were an after thought. I am here to tell youIt’s common for Cape Town to be a quick stay. It’s often the starting and/or ending point for a trip to South Africa where the safari portion is the main attraction. Whether you’re staying for one night or one week, there’s a hotel that will suit everyone’s visit. Continue reading for my top 5 picks!
The Silo Hotel
View of the V&A Waterfront from The Silo Hotel
Who would love it: Someone looking for a trendy and upscale experience with rooms that are ANYTHING but cookie cutter. Each guest room has its own color scheme and unique décor that was thoughtfully curated by owner and designer, Liz Biden. Between the bright colors, art work and sweeping views of Cape Town, you won’t know where to look first. The hotel was built in 2017 so while it’s a new property that has been fully renovated (it took 3 years to build!), it’s still rich in history. The building dates back to 1924 where it operated for 80 years as a grain silo and was a huge part of South Africa’s industrial and agricultural development.
Pro Tip: If The Silo is your style, you will love the other hotels in their portfolio. I highly recommend a stay at La Residence during a trip to the Winelands, Royal Malewane for your safari, and Birkenhead House for whale watching and relaxing near South Africa’s most southern point. The hotel collection, named Royal Portfolio, often offers promotions when you stay at all of their properties. An amazing trip would be to do two weeks in South Africa and stay at all four properties.
Who should skip it: Someone looking to splurge on safari and skimp on accommodations in Cape Town. This is one of the pricier hotels in the area so if you want to go big or go home with the safari and then tone it down for the rest of the trip, keep reading.
VIP amenities received when you book The Silo Hotel through Gusto: Priority for a room upgrade on arrival, daily complimentary a la carte breakfast for two, priority for early check in and check out, a complimentary welcome amenity, and $100 to use either as a food beverage/spa credit OR a donation will be made to the philanthropic conservation and sustainability projects of The Royal Portfolio Foundation.
One&Only Cape Town
One&Only Island Rooms (view from the main property)
Who would love it: Those who want to feel like they are at a luxury resort. There are guest rooms on the main property, along with a Nobu, wine cellar, and more. Just a few steps away over a small foot bridge is a private island that has additional guest rooms and a large pool area.
Pro Tip: If you like a good view, opt for a room on a high floor with a mountain view in the main building. Or, stay on the island in a more private room with a balcony overlooking the waterways, mountains, or pool. Your choice! And it’s tough to go wrong.
Who should skip it: Someone who is in Cape Town for less than 24 hours. This hotel is great for someone who will be in the city for at least a few days and has time to sightsee but also time to relax and unwind at the hotel. For what the accommodations will cost, I’d recommend staying long enough to enjoy it.
VIP amenities received when booking the One&Only through Gusto: Priority for a room upgrade on arrival, daily complimentary full breakfast for two, $100 food/beverage credit, priority for early check in and check out, and a complimentary welcome amenity.
Ellerman House
Ocean View from Ellerman House
Who would love it: Art buffs (there is a huge South African art collection on property) and those who want to be tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy areas. The property was built 100 years old and served as a private residence before being turned into a hotel with just 13 guest rooms. The property is perched on cliffs, which provides dramatic ocean views that make you feel like you are at someone’s beautiful summer home. For those wanting additional space and privacy, there are standalone suites that have multiple bedrooms, private pools, and wraparound terraces with water views.
Who should skip it: Anyone wanting to avoid stairs. Since the layout is more like an estate, there is walking and stairs involved to get around. While it’s possible to avoid stairs, it wouldn’t be convenient, so it’s probably not the best option for someone who would prefer to zip up to their room in an elevator.
VIP amenities received when booking Ellerman House through Gusto: Priority for a room upgrade on arrival, daily complimentary full breakfast for two, priority for early check in and check out, a complimentary welcome amenity, and a paired chocolate and brandy tasting OR a donation will be made on your behalf to support to education of a South African child for one year.
Belmond Mount Nelson
Planet Bar at the Belmond Mount Nelson
Who would love it: Someone who wants to be at an iconic property and feel like they’ve gone back in time. Built in 1899, the building was the first hotel in South Africa to offer hot and cold running water. It is famously pink and THE spot in Cape Town for high tea. The property is gated so you have the security and privacy of a hotel while still being steps away from the vibrant Kloof Street bars, restaurants and shops that have more of a local and authentic feel than the V&A Waterfront.
Who should skip it: Anyone who wants a water view or prefers boutique hotels, as this property has over 200 guest rooms and is a 10 minute drive to the V&A Waterfront.
VIP amenities received when booking Belmond Mount Nelson through Gusto: Guaranteed upgrade at booking, priority for early check in and check out, complimentary daily buffet breakfast, one complimentary afternoon or evening tea for two, and a complimentary welcome amenity.
The Table Bay Hotel
Lobby of The Table Bay Hotel
Based on the opinions of others, I would be including Cape Grace Hotel as my fifth property. But since it was closed while I was visiting Cape and I didn’t get to see it, I’ll include The Table Bay Hotel. I stayed there for two nights and think it’s a wonderful option to consider.
Who would love it: Someone looking for a classic hotel on the V&A Waterfront with water and mountain views but isn’t looking to break the bank. The hotel was opened by Nelson Mandela in 1997, has 300 guest rooms and many amenities including multiple bars and restaurants, a spa, a pool, a gym, and even a direct connection to the V&A shopping mall.
Who it’s not for: Someone looking for a modern hotel. The views are gorgeous, the location is perfect, the service is great, but the rooms are not brand spanking new.
VIP amenities received when booking The Table Bay Hotel through Gusto: Complimentary daily breakfast for 2, priority for room upgrade, early check in and check out, and complimentary welcome amenity.
HOTEL RECAP BY GENRE:
Most Hip:
The Silo Hotel and One&Only
Most Romantic:
Ellerman Hotel and Belmond Mount Nelson
Most Historic:
Belmond Mount Nelson and Ellerman House
Most Likely to be Suitable for Families:
One&Only
Most Likely to Cost the Most:
Silo Hotel, One&Only, Ellerman House
Most Likely to Cost the Least:
Table Bay
Most Walkable Location:
The Silo Hotel, One&Only, Table Bay
Most Likely to have Water Views:
Silo Hotel, Ellerman House, Table Bay
