Travelers from all over the world flock to Cape Town to experience and appreciate the eclectic and somewhat cosmopolitan mix of cultures, tastes and sights. I might be slightly biased in my opinion of Cape Town, but in all my travels, I have never come across a place as vibrant as the Mother City. The attractions and recreational facilities are countless, and cater to any budget. However, with its white pristine beaches that stretches on for miles and miles, Table Mountain that reminds of table being set when the mist rolls in, and just awe-inspiring scenery abound, Cape Town presents the embodiment of luxury to the traveler with distinguished taste.
Take note, the suggested itinerary is not for the traveler on budget, but oh so very worth it to invest some time in a luxurious weekend getaway, allowing to recharge and unwind. And why not indulge yourself a bit in the opulence? Experience only the best the Cape had to offer in a unique way. Needless to say, if you are planning a trip, it is essential to secure your accommodation in advance. You aren’t heading for a youth hostel where you can just check in and hope for a room, so plan ahead, especially if it is luxury you’re after.
No place exudes sophistication and comfort more clearly than Ellerman House. It whispers of the finer things in live, with a modern air and high-tech features without compromising the sheer comfort and style of the place.
Ellerman House
Based in Bantry Bay, the hotel is a mere 10 minutes from the ever popular V&A Waterfront, making a central and ideal location. The views overlooking the bay and famous Robben Island from private balconies are just absolutely amazing and un-obscured. If you consider yourself an art aficionado, the house is adorned in an impressive collection of local art. The recreational areas are spacious and open, with massive glass windows that can open up completely to views of the stunning garden and ocean. The curved staircase with its leather-bound rail speaks of the attention to detail.
This is before you reach the bedroom, which is another assault on the senses; in a good way of course. The glamorous bathrooms are created from Travertine marble, and top of the range beauty products are at your disposal. The concierge will provide you with 24 hour service that is friendly, discreet and efficient. There is even a guest pantry where guests can snack on top-notch tidbits between meals. The house would not be complete without a world-class kitchen, so you can have award-winning meals right at the hotel. However, you’ll want to go out and experience as much as you can. Cape Town can compete with the best when it comes to world-class cuisine. If you feel like dining out, there are several restaurants that are highly recommended. Your culinary experience should include a trip to at least one of these establishments.
The Test Kitchen
Based in Woodstock in Cape Central, Test Kitchen is one of the hottest restaurants in the district, so do book in advance to avoid disappointment. The scene is set on brushed steel tables surrounded by contemporary artwork and handmade leather seats. Chef Dale-Roberts only buys fresh ingredients from local markets, fisheries and butcheries, and ads interesting flavors through different food combinations. A prime example is veal tongue and scallops.
The Greenhouse
The Greenhouse restaurant is set in the Cellar-Hohenort’s Hotel. The hotel itself sweeps over nine acres of stunning landscape, but more importantly, it is home to Grand Chef Peter Tempelhoff. Tempelhoff takes his inspiration from the imagination, where anything goes, and it works. Meals take on a new flavor, combined with local produce and excellent wine pairings. Seating is limited to only 45 people, so the setting is very intimate and cozy. Again, don’t forget to book.
La Colombe
The dining area is tucked away under massive palm and oak trees in Constantia. La Colombe overlooks a private courtyard, with the sound of water lapping in the background. The dining experience is typically Asian-French infusion, but one of the specialties is the to-die-for Kingklip on a bed of buttered leaks, served with a prawn and salmon pie. It is the ideal setting for romantic ambience, but do take note, the price is hefty.
Now that you have a place to lay your head in luxury and refueled on a feast, it is time to consider one of the many top-notch excursion activities in the area. No matter what time of year you travel, there is always something to enjoy. The activities you choose should depend on your taste and preference, but the suggested itinerary should give you a clear idea of what is available to you.
Full Peninsula Helicopter Trip
There is no better way to appreciate Cape Town than from up high. Helicopter trips depart from the V&A Waterfront daily. The Peninsula flight will take you from the city to the Cape of Good Hope to discover the Peninsula from all angles. From there you will be whisking off to False Bay before heading back to Cape Town.
You can also book a whale watching excursion from the same place. The flight will take you to Kleimond, following the coast to Hermanus. From there, and expert guide will take you out to the open ocean, right up close and personal with Southern Right Whales. Be sure to check in advance, since certain trips will only include your flight. The ocean safari will be for your own account.
Wine Land Luxury
No weekend getaway to the Cape, regardless of the luxury, can ever be complete without at least one trip to the fables wine lands. You are spoiled for choice how you want to go about it. Why not book a limo to take you on a custom-made wine tour? If you are after something unique and memorable, take a scenic flight from Long Beach to Constantia Wine estate. There, you can have lunch at any one of the three restaurants, before returning back to Cape Town via a chauffeur… on the back of a Harley Davidson!
Something for the Boys
No matter what your age, I’m sure you have fancied yourself a regular Schumacher behind the wheel. Now you get to live out that fantasy for real, on a world-class race track. A V6 Dodge 3.5 liter will give you the closest F1 racing experience you can possible have. The power of the cars is exhilarating, and proper pit crews add to the authenticity of the experience.
A luxury break to the likes of a weekend in the Cape is something that most people only dream of. Throw yourself in it, and make the dream come true.
Jeff Cammack is the owner and travel freak at Safari Guide Africa. Safari Guide Africa creates luxury safari vacations in South Africa many of which stop off in Cape Townfor some relaxation and enjoyment.
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