Cape Grace

Description:

• The Cape Grace is the classiest option in the Waterfront -- the hotel of choice when the Clintons are in town. The difference between this hotel and the Mount Nelson -- the other top choice -- is primarily one of location; the Cape Grace is in a marina, situated on its own promontory and surrounded by water on all three sides, while the Nellie is surrounded by lush gardens. Being relatively new, it also doesn't exude the graciousness of the century-old Mount Nelson (and from an exclusivity point of view, cannot compete with the Ellerman). That said, the luxury (standard) rooms truly are luxurious, in both size and furnishings, with French doors opening onto mountain or harbor views; superior rooms are slightly larger, with walkout balconies. The two- and three-bedroom suites, with fully equipped kitchens, are ideal for families. In fact, the Cape Grace prides itself on its reputation as one of the most family-oriented luxury hotels in the country: Kids are welcomed with their own cards and gift hampers, and are read stories and given milk before bed; plus, the hotel rents anything from a car seat to a pram. Downstairs the lively Bascule regularly hosts some great New World DJs (it's packed with singles on the prowl on Fri), and the fine-dining one.waterfront is regularly voted one of the top hotel restaurants in the country (though personally I'd rather take a stroll to Den Anker).

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Travel + Leisure

•  World's Best 2009

Conde Nast Traveler

•  Readers' Travel Award Winner 2008

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010

ForbesTraveler

•  Forbes Traveler 400 2008

Other features:

Quay West restaurant is renowned for its superb wine list among local Capetonians, and serves a menu which combines flavors from the East with touches of the Mediterranean.