Fodor's Expert Review Cape Heritage Hotel

Built as a private home in the 1780s, this lovely, historic and centrally located boutique hotel has teak-beamed ceilings, foot-wide yellow-wood floorboards, and numerous other details that recall its gracious past. The hotel is the main feature of Heritage Square, a gorgeous restored historic courtyard, but a number of other restaurants and bars (as well as what's claimed to be the oldest-known fruit-bearing grapevine in South Africa) share the space, making it buzz with activity. Friendly staff ensures everything runs smoothly. Parking is across the street in a section of a public lot with good security.

room

The spacious rooms are individually decorated, many melding the best of South Africa's dynamic contemporary art scene with colonial elegance. Some have four-poster beds, others exposed brickwork, but each has its own special charm.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Rooms overlooking the courtyard can be a little noisy, but the revelry stops at midnight. The hotel provides ear plugs.

bathroom

Bathrooms also have a historical feel, but--like the rooms--all mod cons.

lobby

The hotel reception area is decorated with the same historic flair as the rest of the hotel, and staff are very helpful and kind.

Tours of the historic hotel and square can be arranged - talk to staff.

dining

The fresh, tasty buffet breakfast is included in the rates and served in the comfortable breakfast room or courtyard. While the restaurants that share the courtyard are all separately run, their proximity to the hotel make them feel almost like they are part of it, giving guests access to some of Cape Town's best dining options barely steps from their rooms.

Cute little touches make the hotel stand out: cookies with the turn-down service, little surprises for children, and a free welcome drink.

drinking

Other public spaces in the hotel are lovely, including the lounge with a fireplace. Coffee and tea are served all day. Guests can have drinks in the courtyard too, either from the hotel or from one of the handful of bars that also share the space.