Cape Cadogan
Tamboerskloof, Cape Town, South Africa
Reviewed by
Abi Colgan
Dating back to the early 19th century, Cape Cadogan is such a perfect example of Cape Dutch architecture that it was made a national monument in 1984. To this day it oozes charm and character. As we walked through the garden’s flawless topiary, the veranda’s Georgian pillars and billowing white drapes indicated that we’d found one of Cape Town’s true gems.
This stately home contains 19 luxurious rooms, while neighbouring buildings conceal a handful of modern one- to two-bedroom apartments and a couple of high-end villas. There's a fantastic restaurant and bar offering top-notch delights, and with Kloof Street just a stroll away, we felt we were really experiencing the highlights of Cape Town’s first-rate food and drink scene - the street really comes alive at night.
And what about further afield? Well, Cape Cadogan’s complimentary mini bus transfers run within a 4-mile radius of the hotel, so we ventured everywhere from the Table Mountain cable car to the V&A Waterfront. But no matter how far we strayed, there was always a reason to return to Cape Cadogan. Perhaps it was the indulgent treatments in the spa, or the early-evening aperitifs by the fire... We just couldn’t resist.
This stately home contains 19 luxurious rooms, while neighbouring buildings conceal a handful of modern one- to two-bedroom apartments and a couple of high-end villas. There's a fantastic restaurant and bar offering top-notch delights, and with Kloof Street just a stroll away, we felt we were really experiencing the highlights of Cape Town’s first-rate food and drink scene - the street really comes alive at night.
And what about further afield? Well, Cape Cadogan’s complimentary mini bus transfers run within a 4-mile radius of the hotel, so we ventured everywhere from the Table Mountain cable car to the V&A Waterfront. But no matter how far we strayed, there was always a reason to return to Cape Cadogan. Perhaps it was the indulgent treatments in the spa, or the early-evening aperitifs by the fire... We just couldn’t resist.
Highs
- The main building, a national monument, is one of the finest 19th century houses in Cape Town, its tradition and heritage complimented with modern touches and charming, attentive service
- You're yards from Kloof Street's plethora of excellent bars and restaurants, yet the hotel feels like an oasis of tranquillity
- We found the complimentary transfers to and from V&A Waterfront incredibly helpful (there’s no public transport to speak of in Cape Town)
- A relaxing atmosphere and excellent service (unobtrusive yet attentive). There's bags of parking space right outside your door, and 24-hour surveillance by a friendly attendant
Lows
- To book the Cape Cadogan Residence 2 or Stable Suites until April 2025, head to their sister property More Quarters
- There can be noise from the street and nearby bars - the flipside of its buzzy location
- The beach or the Table Mountain cable car are a short drive away
- The hotel isn't suitable for families with children under 10 years old, but all ages are welcome in the Stable Suites and Residences
- We haven't visited the hotel since it underwent extensive refurbishments, so our review may be missing some details
Best time to go
With its mild climate, and so much going on, any time of year is a great time to visit.
The town is at its busiest from November through to March, which in South Africa equates to late Spring and Summer. Expect the sea to be cold on the Atlantic facing beaches throughout the year; by hopping over the hill to False Bay you'll be swimming in water which is several degrees warmer.
The best time for whale watching along the coast east of Cape Town is between September and mid November.
The town is at its busiest from November through to March, which in South Africa equates to late Spring and Summer. Expect the sea to be cold on the Atlantic facing beaches throughout the year; by hopping over the hill to False Bay you'll be swimming in water which is several degrees warmer.
The best time for whale watching along the coast east of Cape Town is between September and mid November.
Our top tips
Don't underestimate the power of the sun in Cape Town. Even if it's a cloudy day be sure to apply blocks and cream before you head out and be sure to take some kind of hat with you.