without exploring local winemakers and indulging in a bit of wine tasting . Groot Constantia , the oldest wine estate in South Africa , known for producing some of the finest wines in the country , is a perfect addition to any Cape Town itinerary . And best of all , it ’ s located just about 9 miles outside the city center in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town .
Slightly further away , but worth the one-hour drive from Cape Town , is the acclaimed Clouds Wine and Guest Estate , a boutique hotel and working wine farm , in neighboring Stellenbosch . Situated on a striking mountain pass , Clouds lives up to the promise of its name with both its impressive views and heavenly wines .
In terms of accommodations , travelers often find themselves spoiled for choice on a visit to Cape Town . With a range of awardwinning properties highlighting the city ’ s finest attributes , there is something for every taste and budget in Cape Town .
Fans of classic elegance will no doubt be drawn to the iconic pink buildings of the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel — a resplendent oasis in the heart of the city . A five-star luxury property , ‘ the Nellie ’ ( as the hotel is affectionately known to its most loyal patrons ) has long been a hub of social life in Cape Town playing host to all manner of royalty and boldfaced names ranging from Sir Winston Churchill and John Lennon to Leonardo di Caprio and Charlize Theron since first opening its doors in 1899 . Of particular note , the property is distinguished by its immaculately lush gardens , English colonial décor and buzzy afternoon tea service complete with its own expertly trained tea sommelier .
Lastly , a word about Cape Town ’ s vibrant dining and nightlife scene . Without question , Cape Town is the culinary capital of South Africa . A few foodie-certified highlights include The Codfather , a Camps Bay favorite specializing in the freshest seafood imaginable , The Test Kitchen , helmed by celebrated chef Dale Roberts , is best known for its innovative menu , and The Pot Luck Club , a more casual concept from Chef Dale Roberts that is no less innovative in its offerings than its predecessor .
With its uniquely cosmopolitan blend of culture , cuisine , and accommodations set against a staggering landscape unlike any other in the world , Cape Town is truly a city of wonder .
GETTING THERE
United Airlines recently launched nonstop service between
Washington Dulles International Airport ( IAD ) and Cape Town International Airport ( CPT ). The flights operate three times per week on a Boeing 787-9 aircraft .
Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel
Also in city ’ s center , situated on a private quay between the Victoria & Albert Waterfront and the yacht marina , sits the Cape Grace Hotel . Separated from the busy waterfront by a bridge , this elegantly appointed property simultaneously boasts access and privacy paired with stunning views of Table Mountain and the marina .
Steps away , the award-winning Silo Hotel offers a dramatically different experience from its towering vantage point high above the Victoria & Albert Waterfront . Built in the grain elevator portion of the historic grain silo complex , the hotel occupies six floors above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa ( MOCAA ) which houses Africa ’ s largest collection of contemporary African art . Modern , colorful , eclectic and industrial the Silo Hotel offers 28 individually designed rooms , each with its own balcony and unique collection of contemporary African art , in addition to a rooftop bar which is a destination in its own right .
Just a few minutes outside the city center , experience a different side of Cape Town at the Atholl House , a 5-star boutique B & B located in the hills of Camps Bay at the back of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles mountain range , overlooking the Atlantic Ocean . With an emphasis on sustainability and maintaining the highest ecological standards without sacrificing an iota of charm or luxury , this property offers access to the best that Cape Town has to offer in the heart of one of its most exclusive enclaves . Likewise , the much acclaimed Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa offers similar access to the best of Camps Bay from a magnificent location along one of South Africa ’ s most celebrated scenic routes . With Table Mountain National Park and Lions Head towering behind it and the Atlantic Ocean at its feet , Twelve Apostles promises an experience to match the majesty of its surroundings .
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