Top Accommodations in Cape Town

In our recurring “According to AAC’s Consultants,” Africa Adventure Company staff members will be surveyed about their favorite accommodations, experiences, guides, and destinations.

This installment features insights from Ian Flores, Kollin Buchholz, Kyle Witten, Szilvia Hegyi, Rhoda Barnett, Mark Nolting, and Alison Nolting about their favorite accommodations in Cape Town and its vicinity.

Ian Flores: Mosaic Private Sanctuary

“I’m a big fan of Mosaic Private Sanctuary in Hermanus.”

“When I’m on safari, I’m eager to do as many active experiences as possible, whether it’s trekking, walking safaris, canoes, or even climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. So if my trip ends in Cape Town, I want to go somewhere I can relax and sleep-in after many early mornings in the bush! That way, I’m also refreshed and recharged when I return home.”

Kollin Buchholz: Cape Grace Hotel

“The reason I like the Cape Grace Hotel so much is that it gives you the option to either relax or to actively explore the city of Cape Town; the waterfront and its numerous restaurants, bars, galleries and attractions are within walking distance.”

“However, if you’re more inclined to relax, you can enjoy stunning views of Table Mountain or the bay from the comfort of your hotel, and perhaps even your room! Put simply, you will have incredible service, meals, and spa treatments at your disposal at this ‘quintessentially African’ luxury hotel.”

Kyle Witten: Ellerman House

“I have two favorite accommodations, one in the city and the other in the Cape Winelands.”

“In Cape Town proper, I love the Ellerman House. If you love ocean views from the comfort and privacy of your own suite and world-class dining (they’ve just announced a new culinary director!), Ellerman is unbeatable. As an added bonus, they have the best gin selection ever: I call it the gin trolley to end all gin trolleys!

Kyle Witten: Babylonstoren

“My second favorite spot is Babylonstoren, which is a quick drive out from the city into the Cape Winelands.”

“Unassuming from the exterior, this small boutique hotel is truly a hidden gem, especially if you’re a foodie. Visitors essentially step into a full-fledged wine estate and farm.”

“A visit here is simply incomplete with a visit to Babylonstoren’s bakery and fresh market. This is where you can buy all the picnic essentials, like baguettes, cheese, charcuterie and wine, before heading out on a bicycle for an afternoon picnic. It will most likely be one of your most memorable gastronomic experiences!”

Szilvia Hegyi & Rhoda Barnett

Szilvia Hegyi:Welgelegen

“My favorite hotel in Cape Town is the Welgelegen Guest House. If I want to be in the heart of Cape Town close to restaurants, museums, galleries and other attractions, Welgelegen is hard to beat!

“Since there are only 13 rooms, staying here feels more like you’re a house guest! It’s also perfect for a half-day at leisure: a block away is Kloof Street, a gateway to contemporary, chic Capetonian and pan-African culture.”

Rhoda Barnett: Tintswalo Atlantic

“But if you would like some extraordinary ocean views and some respite from Cape Town’s hustle & bustle, you’re going to like Tintswalo Atlantic a lot.”

“After a fire left the property partially destroyed, the lodge will be rebuilt later this year and Tintswalo Atlantic will be open for new bookings once again.”

“Aside from Tintswalo’s stellar ocean views, guests are able to easily access numerous hiking trails and other attractions dotting the Cape Peninsula, like Chapman’s Peak. To top it off, the food is exquisite!”

Mark Nolting: Cape Grace Hotel

“After multiple visits to Cape Town over more than three decades, Alison and I both agree that the Cape Grace is our favorite hotel in Cape Town. It’s just one of those timeless classics where it feels like you’re visiting for the first time every time. Our last visit was in May 2018, but wish it was much more recent!”

“Alison and I also really want to emphasize the quality of the Cape Grace’s staff. There are several stellar hotels with both a prized location on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and a magnificent view of Table Mountain. Yet all fall short of the attention to detail and warmness of the this hotel’s staff. This wonderful service is on full display during the hotel’s immaculate breakfasts and pre-dinner drinks at the cozy, warm bar.”

Alison Nolting: Mosaic Private Sanctuary

“But I have one more suggestion, especially if you’re keen to explore South Africa’s Garden Route and stay outside of Cape Town: Mosaic Private Sanctuary.”

“This is the perfect place to ‘get away from it all.’ An added bonus is that the owner is very hands-on, not only with day-to-operations, but guest activities beyond the lodge, too. Whether its visiting Walker Bay for whale-watching, going to Stony Point to spot penguins, or a myriad of other activities, you are in great hands!”