The Cape Town CBD is rebooting. A lot of my go-to’s are holding strong and there are new kids on the block too. When in the city I tend to beeline for Bree for the fine coffee shops, wine bars and eateries so when choosing a hotel, proximity to all that is key and the Cape Milner is an ideal option conveniently within walking distance.
THE HOTEL
The Cape Milner has been a Tamboerskloof fixture for more than two decades and has seen a number of re-furbishments. While the style hasn’t changed a great deal, each mini makeover has ensured the hotel has retained its reputation as a chic destination in the heart of one of Cape Town’s prettiest and leafiest suburbs.
ROOMS & COMFORT
There are 57 in total, including two executive suites (with an additional bedroom added), and ten luxury rooms tucked away behind the beautiful Victorian house-turned-conferencing facility. I was in one of the latter, a spacious hideaway with a bed big enough to land a small plane on. Oh, and those elongated pillows – beware, they will be your downfall if you’ve an early meeting the next day.
I’m quite obsessive about bathrooms and this one didn’t disappoint, black and white with modern fittings and a generously-sized tub. The look is cool and contemporary, and I loved the way the bathroom was part of the room, separated by a glass wall with dropdown blinds.
POOL
The pool is busy during summer and on those balmy days that Cape Town gives us every winter. Unlike many city hotels, day visitors have access during specific times which means there is a steady stream of visitors. It’s a festive vibe, especially appreciated after so many lifeless Lockdown months.
THE FOOD
The menu at the Cape Milner is about simplicity, nothing overly-ambitious. It’s the kind of fare that is perfect in any number of situations – maybe a burger or wrap next to the pool, or something more substantial at dinner with a bottle of wine.
The glass lounge, named for its transparent ceiling, is a light and bright space done in a palette of teals, blues and greys, with splashes of colourful fabrics and large chandeliers overhead. After dark, the room takes on a funky mauve hue that works well for those coming in for cocktails and dinner.
EASY LOCATION
As I mentioned, the hotel’s location is ideal. It’s totally safe to walk into town during the day- there’s Bree Street and the city centre in one direction, and Tamboerskloof and Gardens in the other. There is a lot to see and if it’s tourist hotspots you’re after, you can make use of the hotel’s complimentary courtesy shuttle (Mon to Fri) to and from town, and to the V&A Waterfront, or jump into a cab for Table mountain, the Cableway and the blue flag beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton. Everything you want to no more than 8 kilometres from the front door and the airport by the way, is only 20kms away. The amazing staff will be only too happy to assist you with anything you might want to know.
WORK FROM THERE
The hotel is also a great place for digital nomads to spend the day getting some work done. Currently, for R160pp per day, you can have access to the hotel WiFi as well as two coffees, a soft drink and a burger or a wrap-it’s a great deal.
EASTER SPECIAL
Take advantage of the Easter special offer where pay for 2 nights but stay for 3 or have 2 kids under 12 stay free, plus there’ll be a special Easter-themed breakfast and an Easter surprise for the kids.
A FEW OF MY RECOMMENDATIONS NEARBY FOR COFFEE, WINE & FOOD
The House of Machines in Shortmarket, Clarke’s, Gate69, Jason and Café Frank, and the fresh and fabulous Pang inside Rook’s Cycles on Bree (see pic below).
CONTACT
The Cape Milner Reservations: Tel: + 27 21 426 1101
Be safe, stay well!