The grande dame of these parts is glamour incarnate. Affectionately known as ‘The Nellie’, its imposing entrance (built in 1925 to welcome the Prince of Wales) – all towering palms, exotic prints, elegant chandeliers and chequerboard floors – ushers arrivals into a pleasure-dome pink palace. Vases of native protea flowers are dotted throughout the lounge, where high tea – with local treats such as koesisters and frikkadels – is served while the resident pianist tinkles away. The adjacent Planet Bar spills out onto a terrace that overlooks rose gardens and a gurgling fountain, where it would be rude not to sample the local Neil Ellis Sauvignon Blanc – or many other regional wines on the list – instead of your usual martini. That is, unless you are staying in one of the Garden Cottages, where gin and tonics appear at the right time every evening, served on your own terrace, opposite a private pool and lawn. The cottages, like all the rooms, are decorated in classic neutrals, light and soft, with vast beds, well-stocked drinks cabinets, marble baths and Venetian mirrors.
LOCATION: Cape Town, South Africa
BOOK IT: Abercrombie & Kent offers seven nights from £2,599, including breakfast, flights and transfers.
WEBSITE: abercrombiekent.co.uk
