Accomodation
12 Apostles Hotel & Spa in Cape Town
The award-winning 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa is situated on Cape Town’s most scenic route. Flanked by the Twelve Apostles mountain range and majestic Table Mountain National Park, a World Heritage Site which has gained the New 7 Wonders of Nature status, it is poised high above the Atlantic Ocean. Guided by a marine reserve with frequent whale and dolphin sightings, the hotel offers the longest hours of sunshine in Cape Town, resulting in legendary Atlantic Ocean sunsets that are guaranteed to make your stay here a breathtaking experience.
Durbanite recently had the opportunity to experience the 12 Apostles in all its glory.
The 12 Apostles is a holiday within Cape Town. It’s a place to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city, but close enough to jump into the complimentary shuttle – and head for sundowners at Caprice, dinner at one of the many restaurants at V&A Waterfront or party the night away on Long Street.
The five-star boutique hotel offers easy access to beaches and tourist attractions, while the famous Cape Winelands is a scenic drive away. You can also choose to be whisked away on a helicopter flight from the hotel’s own helistop, for beautiful aerial views of Robben Island, Clifton and Lion’s Head.
We arrived at the hotel greeted by very friendly staff members, Jason at the front desk offered us some sparkling wine and checked us in. We also learnt that the hotel is pet friendly – small pets may also be accommodated in room types that offer access to the garden, and will be treated to special pet menus and amenities.
After the check-in, Jason gave us a tour of the hotel and led us to our room for the next couple of nights.
A member of Leading Hotels of the World, The 12 Apostles is renowned as Cape Town’s leading boutique hotel, and repeatedly voted one of the best on the continent. African Style and classic European comfort affirm the elegance of the hotel, which boasts 70 individually designed bedrooms and suites, including a Presidential Suite. Part of the family-run Red Carnation Hotel Collection, The 12 Apostles Hotel offers splendid luxury, passionate service, generous hospitality and exquisite cuisine.
The property is a popular venue for conferences and events, and the perfect choice for a special occasion – whether for an intimate dinner for two, a gathering of friends and family, or an extravagant banquet for up to 80 people in the gorgeous Atlantic Terrace Marquee.
It\s a sought-after honeymoon and wedding destination too, offering the service of a dedicated Wedding Coordinator to ensure that each couple experiences the perfect wedding. Bridal couples may look forward to many romantic moments such as a dual Spa treatment in the Spa Gazebo; a picnic for two or a rose petal turndown with sparkling wine.
Hotel guests are spoilt for choice with a wide range of facilities and activities on offer, from relaxing next to the infinity or heated rock pools, to enjoying movie nights in the 16-seat private cinema, and experiencing mountain walks and picnics in the National Park.
Once we had settled into our room, we decided after our long trip from Durban that a little time at the world class spa was in order.
The holistic Spa at The 12 Apostles allows guests to succumb to the hands of expert therapists with treatments that heal, restore and pamper. Personalised, individual treatments are on offer, in addition to signature Spa Journeys which focus on holistic principles, combining ancient wisdom with modern expertise, and using B|Africa, the signature product of choice in all Red Carnation Hotel Collection South Africa spas.
For dinner, we had the opportunity to immerse in the superb culinary experience on offer by Executive Chef Christo Pretorius and Head Sommelier Gregory Mutambe at Azure Restaurant – which was recognised in the American Express Platinum Fine Dining and Diners Club Winelist of the Year awards in 2013.
We were spoilt for choice with the finest local and international cuisine that we enjoyed, fireside, in the elegant dining room. On a warmer summer’s night we could have had dined on the stunning terrace that overlooked the ocean.
Food and wine pairing dinners are presented on a monthly basis to showcase some of South Africa’s top wineries.
Once we had decided on our choices for the three-course meal, the sommelier was able to pair some fantastic wine with our food. The menu also caters for vegetarians and the chef really outdid himself! The excellent service and perfect Atlantic Ocean views, combined with a warm, welcoming interior and superior food and wine, invites guests to immerse themselves in a true Cape experience.
One of the highlights of the stay had to be the buffet breakfasts served every morning. Situated in the Azure Restaurant that provide absolutely stunning morning views of Lion’s Head and the ocean. After we indulged in the delicious food, we set off on the private hiking trail behind the hotel. No picture could do the hike justice… with incredible views and with various picnic spots along the way, we were truly in bliss. Oh, and did you know the hotel can set up a picnic basket for you at your request?
We returned from our hike just in time to get ready for the high tea experience. ‘Tea by the Sea’, the legendary 12 Apostles High Tea is served daily and includes delicate finger sandwiches and sweet temptations served with the finest selection of fragrant teas and coffees. The month of November was a special month at the 12 Apostles. The majority of the cakes and treats were pink in celebration and support of breast cancer awareness month. The selection of food and different teas were impressive to say the least. We spent a good amount of time trying and tasting all we could!
The hotel has also gained a popularity as a music hot spot, so after our high tea, we headed to the live music in the famous Leopard Bar – which has the reputation of being the best place in Cape Town to mingle with locals, have a few cocktails and watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
With a mantra of ‘no request is too large, no detail too small’, it is no surprise that the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa was voted by Travel & Leisure as one of the World’s 500 Best Hotels in 2014.
In conclusion:
The 12 Apostles is an exceptional place for families as there are tons of activities for the kids – not to mention it’s a great place for couples to celebrate their wedding anniversaries or even just to enjoy a luxurious honeymoon.
Website: www.12apostleshotel.com
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Planning the ideal honeymoon can be exceptionally daunting, not to mention expensive, but if you’re looking local, and want to continue the romance long past your wedding day, Granny Mouse Country House & Spa is a definite contender! Renowned for being one of the most romantic getaway destinations in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, this idyllic retreat offers the perfect setting for a romantic honeymoon, with its tranquil atmosphere, breathtaking scenery, world-class facilities and attentive staff.
Granny Mouse’s accommodation is luxury at its finest, ranging from their secluded garden rooms, nestled in their spectacular gardens, to their sprawling deluxe suites with private balconies overlooking the Lions River. Each and every room has been designed with comfort and luxury in mind, and are equipped with large bath tubs and aromatic bath salts and oils for those intimate evenings in.
Following the excitement of the wedding, what could be better than relaxing in their on-site, state-of-the-art spa, which offers an extensive range of treatments and therapies, including hydrotherapy to replenish your mind and body before you have to get back to reality?
One of the standout features of Granny Mouse is a culinary haven, offering guests a diverse range of delectable experiences. From their fine-dining restaurant, Eaves, with its sophisticated menu of modern fusion cuisine, to their open-sky Bistro, providing a more casual dining experience, and their wine cellar, which is undoubtedly the perfect spot for a romantic dinner for two. These, coupled with their award-winning wine menu, will have you toasting to your new life together. No matter where you choose to dine whilst on honeymoon, the Granny Mouse team will pull out all the stops to ensure the most romantic of occasions.
In addition to the fantastic facilities, Granny Mouse Country House & Spa is also ideally located for exploring the surrounding area. From picnics in the Caversham Valley to wine tasting, or just taking a leisurely stroll around the local stores to choose some new items for your home together, the list is endless.
Don’t miss out on an unforgettable honeymoon. Book your stay at Granny Mouse Country House & Spa today and let their team ensure a romantic and memorable experience for you and your partner.
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In the heart of Umhlanga Beach lies a beautifully furnished, newly renovated beach house. Being a double storey with views and access to the ocean, 1 Licorna Beach is the perfect luxury getaway.
Suitable for both business and vacation rentals, this beachfront property will give you the “home away from home” relaxed feel with a pool, garden, outside braai area.
This beach house can accommodate up to 6 guests, and comprises of 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and an open-plan kitchen, dining and living area. Stay entertained with smart tv, dual view DSTV and free wifi.
We’ve listed 9 of the many reasons why 1 Licorna Beach should be your next stay in Umhlanga:
1. UMHLANGA PROMENADE ACCESS
Enjoy direct access to the Umhlanga Promenade: a stretch along the Umhlanga coast and nature reserve, perfect for walks or runs and home to restaurants, coffee shops, ice cream spots and local vendors.
2. DIRECT BEACH ACCESS
Go for a swim in the warm Indian Ocean or chill on the shore. With beach access and a choice of four beaches in walking distance, what more do you need? Make sure there’s a life guard on duty if you go for a dip!
3. UMHLANGA NATURE RESERVE
Explore the coastal wildlife, birds and forest along the Umhlanga Nature Reserve wooden boardwalk and trail. Be sure to check out the Bike & Bean coffee shop at the Northside of the Umhlanga Promenade.
4. FINE-DINING RESTAURANTS
Spoil yourself with a dinner date at The Chef’s Table or the 14 on Chartwell, both just a stone’s throw away at Umhlanga Village.
5. FREE WIFI
Stay connected with 1 Licorna’s free wifi during your stay. Whether for business or leisure, you and your family or guests are covered.
6. DAILY HOUSEKEEPING
No one wants to do the dishes & sweep on holiday! What’s better than arriving back to your accommodation to find it’s been cleaned?
7. 24 HOUR SECURITY & SAFE PARKING
Safety is a priority at Licorna Beach. Relax knowing that you, your family & belongings are tucked away in a gated, access controlled estate.
8. POOL ACCESS
The communal pool is available for a dip, if the sea isn’t calling. Whether you’re braaiing, chilling or just cooling off – it’s nice to have options.
9. SELF-CATERING
Explore new restaurants or enjoy the comforts of home cooking. Remember, you won’t have to do the dishes either. Don’t forget to have a braai while you’re at 1 Licorna.
To book your stay:
Cell: 083 492 3241
Website: www.1licornabeach.co.za
Address:
82 Lagoon Drive, Umhlanga
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Accomodation
Want to stay in the heart of Cape Town? Here’s why The Cape Milner should be your go-to.
For Durbanites, a trip to Cape Town is always enthralling. White-sand beaches, throngs of restaurants, and sea life sightings are just some of the things we look forward to when visiting our Mother City. Of course, the various accommodation on offer forms part of said hype – and can either make or break your experience!
Well, we’re here to tell you this: If you’re looking for a hotel that’s contemporary, comfy, central, quiet and not too costly, we’ve found the place for you. Not to mention its fascinating decor, great hospitality, and luxury charm that just wraps you up and keeps you snug throughout your entire stay.
The opulent Cape Milner building matches Cape Town’s Victorian aesthetic. But inside you’ll find a mix of art-deco, modern and African chic; much like the feel of modern Africa today.
As if wedged at the bottom of Table Mountain, the views from the rooms and lounges are spectacular. We particularly enjoyed dining out in the swanky Glass Lounge, where you can look up into the blue sky or night stars while you enjoy a hearty lamb shank below.
Our homely rooms overlooked the serene Milner Road, with its impressive avenues of trees. We were given complimentary macarons on arrival and enjoyed them with tea as we watched the rain pitter-patter on the tails of unbothered squirrels — how cute! The Milner Hotel really is a place you can enjoy come rain or shine.
The hotel was the absolute, perfect base from which to explore pretty much everything and anything. Just a few minutes drive away lies Bree and Kloof – two favourites, Metropolitan streets for tourists and locals alike. Over the few days of our stay we visited many great spots, all within 5-10 minutes away.
We sank our teeth into cheesy pizza at the much-hyped “I love the dough” and tried out “Mochi Mochi” for dessert; we ordered fizzing and steaming cocktails from “Cause and Effect” at the V&A; and of course, we spent a fun-filled evening at the cheeky and illustrious “Beefcakes” in Green Point.
After each jam-packed day, coming home to our state-of-the-art bathtub and luxurious linen was the cherry on top. It fitted in perfectly with our diverse range of activities we had planned, and matched the entire style of our trip.
We didn’t want to leave!
And of course, we can’t wait to stay again…
To book your stay at the Cape Milner, contact
Tel: +27 11 516 4367
Email: res@extraordinary.co.za
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