Escape to the Cape

Make the most of South Africa’s striking coastline, dramatic mountains and cultural life with these perfectly placed Cape Town stays

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CAPE GRACE

From its location, on a private quay between the V&A Waterfront and the yacht basin, Cape Grace more than lives up to its name. Its setting certainly helps, with guests cheerfully removed from the busier shopping areas of Cape Town’s wharf. Instead, mountain-facing rooms give visitors the feeling of being a world apart, while balconies with views of the working harbour offer something else: a sense that you’re on a real city waterfront and not some tourist replica. Artefacts, local paintings, sculptures, rare fabrics and original antiques narrate the Cape’s colourful past throughout the hotel and offer a break from the identikit design of most luxury stays. But it’s the details that impress. The spa has African-inspired treatments that let you unwind in peace, and if you aren’t tempted by the culinary delights of the city, the respected Signal Restaurant is reason enough to lure you out of your room; plus there’s a whiskey bar, a fully equipped gym and a swimming pool. Rooms from 685 per night, including breakfast; capegrace.com

THE WINCHESTER BOUTIQUE HOTEL

The Winchester is certainly hard to miss. The look of this pink 1920s Cape Dutch-style confection is eye-catching enough, but then there’s the setting. Its location, on the edge of the busy Sea Point Promenade on Beach Road, means the swell of the Atlantic is an ever-present companion, while both Table Mountain and Signal Hill form a backdrop to remember. Ocean views from the restaurant’s terrace continue a coastal vibe that also takes in a pool and Italian-style courtyard surrounded by palm trees and fountains. Rooms channel the 1920s design theme that runs throughout to add a distinguished feel to any stay. Rooms from 313 per night, including breakfast; new markhotels. com/accommodation/the-winchester-hotel