A historic building with spectacular views and the latest tech enhancements

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town offers a wide range of attractions and accommodations in the heart of the working harbour, says Brian Berkman, who went to see the latest improvements at the centre

- Brian Berkman

The first hotel to open at the V&A Waterfront, The Victoria & Alfred Hotel, has been recently upgraded with a totally new entrance area and revamp of the upscale Alfred Mall of which it forms part.

Owned and managed by Newmark, the property now offers guests the experience of being in the hub of the vibrant Waterfront precinct and in an area where other properties such as the historic Union-Castle House are also being updated. However, the real value of selecting the Victoria & Alfred is that its 24 loft rooms not only offer among the most affordable of lodgings in the Waterfront but also that access to Newmark’s other three Waterfront properties, Dock House Boutique Hotel, The Queen Victoria Hotel, and The Manor House on the ridge that overlooks the Alfred Mall and V&A Basin, can be enjoyed. What this means is that if you are a guest at The Victoria & Alfred Hotel that you can use the facilities, such as the lovely swimming pool and quiet lawns and spa intended for Dock House Boutique Hotel, Manor House and The Queen Victoria Hotel guests too and you can charge food and beverage purchases to your room account. Loft rooms are marginally smaller at 36m² compared to other rooms that range from 38m² to 44m² and may not have the views of regular rooms, but are often the first to be booked.

Notable too is that the Newmark group has also recently appointed chef Chris Erasmus, most recently from Franschhoek’s feted Forage Restaurant and group sommelier Marlvin Gwese who, in addition to overseeing the entire F&B offering for the group, will be hosting finedining pop-ups at the various hotels.