Cape Grace

Cape Grace stands on its own private quay between the V&A Waterfront and the yacht marina, with views across the harbour to Table Mountain. It has long been one of the city's most respected luxury hotels, and it reopened under Fairmont management as Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel, following a refurbishment, now part of the Accor family of brands.

The hotel has 112 rooms and suites, many of them looking out over the marina, the working harbour or the mountain, and room types range from classic rooms to large suites for families. Facilities include the Fairmont Spa, a Fairmont Fit gym and a pool terrace, and the hotel offers family-friendly services and private dining and events rooms.

Dining is a strong point. Heirloom Restaurant is the main restaurant, and afternoon tea and the Library Lounge offer lighter options. Bascule Bar, on the edge of the marina, is an intimate whisky bar with more than 500 whiskies from around the world, open daily from midday until midnight. The hotel can arrange experiences such as golf and cycling, as well as wine dinners.

Cape Grace suits couples, families and business travellers who want a polished, full-service hotel with a quiet feel, yet within walking distance of the Waterfront's restaurants and shops. Ask for a mountain-facing room when booking if the view of Table Mountain matters to you, and reserve a table at Bascule if you plan a whisky tasting, which needs to be booked ahead.

The Waterfront location is convenient for Robben Island ferries, Zeitz MOCAA, the Two Oceans Aquarium and harbour cruises, all a short walk away. Cape Town International Airport is about 21 kilometres away, typically 21 to 45 minutes by car depending on traffic, and the hotel can arrange private airport transfers on request. The city centre and Atlantic Seaboard are a short drive.

The hotel's position is one of the quietest at the Waterfront, set slightly apart from the main shopping areas, yet you can still walk to dinner and back. A harbour cruise from the nearby quays, or a walk along the marina at dusk, makes an easy way to end a day. Rates are highest in the December and January holidays, so book early if you are travelling then, and consider the shoulder months of March, April, October and November for better value.