Cape Cadogan, Cape Town

Antiques and modern pieces combine in the delightful rooms here, creating an eclectic, half traditional-timeless- half cutting-edge-contemporary mood. Each room is a haven in Cape Town’s hustle, but for a balcony or terrace pick one of the Luxury Rooms to sit back and enjoy a cocktail with the distinctive silhouette of Table Mountain providing a perfect backdrop. A delicious breakfast is served in the hotel's Upper Union restaurant, which is also one of the city's most exciting and creative restaurants for lunch or dinner. There’s a room-service menu, carefully designed to bring in some local specialities – the Cape Malay chicken curry is a favourite – along with all the usual international classics. A selection of canapés and drinks are served in the lounge every evening. With many of Cape Town’s most popular restaurants and cafés on the doorstep though, stepping out for an evening meal is part of the pleasure of a stay here. Staff are friendly and full of advice about local attractions, and will organise trips and excursions with expertise. This is one of the best boutique hotels in the city, and guests return time and time again.