Cape Grace

Two movable pedestrian bascule bridges provide access from the bustling waterfront to this quiet, mansard-roofed hotel on its own private quay. The sumptuous interiors here (all redone in 2008) include dark-wood antiques, blue-and-white Dutch crockery, and richly patterned fabrics that evoke the region’s raw, exotic blooms. The 121 large and luxurious rooms, many with striped wallpaper and botanical prints, have one-of-a-kind artisanal pieces, like traditionally forged iron lamps and whimsical chandeliers made with dangling Delft saucers. The staff is warm and welcoming, whether they’re seating you at a handsome secretarial desk for check-in, delivering refreshments poolside, pampering you with African-infused treatments at the spa, or arranging your sail around the harbor on the hotel’s own 56-foot yacht.

Insider Tip: Seek out the Library for leisurely reading and a cup of tea—its plush couches and well-stocked shelves make you feel like you’re visiting a well-read uncle (who just happens to be a viscount).

Room to Book: Any room on the Table Mountain/Marina–facing side; the nicest are the fourth-floor Rooftop Terrace rooms and penthouse suites. (These don’t actually have rooftop access, but they do have private balconies with stunning views.)