Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City is one of Accra's leading luxury hotels and the most central of the city's top-end addresses. It stands on Gamel Abdul Nasser Avenue in the Ministries area, at the edge of the central business district, within easy reach of the government quarter, the National Theatre, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, the National Museum, Black Star Square and Makola Market. That location makes it equally suited to business travellers and to leisure visitors who want to explore the historic centre.

The hotel's wellness offer is a major draw. Resense Spa covers some 3,000 square metres across three floors, with ten treatment rooms, a hammam, sauna, steam room, whirlpool baths, a salon and a spa café. There is also an outdoor swimming pool, a well-equipped fitness centre and a tennis court, and guests can borrow bamboo bicycles. Dining centres on Papillon, the hotel's main restaurant, and the Gallery Bar, while the contemporary art space Gallery 1957 has exhibition rooms within the hotel and Galleria Mall complex, a bonus for anyone interested in West African art.

The Kempinski suits business travellers, couples on a special trip, families who want a pool and good facilities, and anyone who values comfort and a central base. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and there is a business centre for working guests.

Check-in is from 15:00 and check-out is until 12:00. Parking is free for guests, and the hotel runs a complimentary hourly shared shuttle to and from the airport on request, which is a real convenience given Accra's traffic. Kotoka International Airport is about seven kilometres away. Rates are at the top of the Accra market, so watch for packages that include breakfast or spa credits, and book well ahead during conferences and the December holiday season.

Non-residents can also use the hotel for a meal at Papillon, a drink at the Gallery Bar or a visit to the Gallery 1957 exhibition spaces, so it is worth a stop even if you are staying elsewhere.

From the hotel, a short taxi ride reaches Osu's restaurants and nightlife, and Jamestown, the lighthouse and the old colonial quarter are a little further west along the coast. Ride-hailing cars are the easiest way to get around in the evening.