With so many options of where to stay in Cape Town, can be quite a daunting experience trying to choose the right fit for you. We have a little secret we would like to share with you, our reasons for choosing guest lodging over hotel hopping.
Hotels are ranked on amenities and luxury, whereas guesthouses provide more of a personal touch. Guesthouse rankings are based on staff availability, friendliness and professionalism, as well as the cleanliness and condition of the lodge.
The biggest difference between the two is privacy, as guesthouses are generally free standing with their own entrances, making your lodge feel like your own home away from home. These small personal touches ensure a stay you won’t easily forget.
A guesthouse gives you the chance to escape from your everyday life in the comfort of a “home” feeling environment. While enjoying your stay in Cape Town, why not check out what’s happening today and this weekend in Cape Town.
Cape Town City Centre
The choice of where to stay in the heart of the city centre can cause quite the head spin, these are our top choices for guest housing accommodation in the city that never sleeps.
Rosedene Guest House
Rosedene Guest House caters to the holiday maker and business person alike. With private meeting/interview rooms and only a 5 minute drive from the business centre of Cape Town, this guesthouse offers the best of both worlds.
There are an array of popular eating hot spots scattered along side the streets, making restaurant hopping easy. Initially, the grounds of the guesthouse formed part of a rose farm but has since been restructured to accommodate 18 guests. The lush green garden and courtyard provide a village like feel within the city.
- Unique Feature: Rooftop terrace with stunning mountain views.
- Rates: R1650 - R3200, per night
- Address: 28 Upper Kloof St, Gardens
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 424 3290
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Ashby Manor Guest House
Ashby Manor Guest House is a luxurious Victorian styled manor house with wooden floors throughout. Each room is unique to the next with each boasting an ensuite bathroom and coffee hub for those early risers.
There is a communal dining hall where they serve up the most decadent breakfasts. The manor provides an old world feel to a sea side holiday with the beach being only 2 minutes away.
- Unique Feature: The best place to experience Victorian hospitality.
- Rates: R500 - R700, per night
- Address: 242 High Level Rd, Fresnaye, Seapoint
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 434 1323
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Cape Finest Guesthouse
The Cape Finest Guesthouse has recently been renovated with the traveller in mind. They cater for large or small budgets without compromising on luxury.. Possibly offering the best views of the city below, the guesthouse is situated in the sought after mountain side area.
They have a variety of rooms available and pride themselves on the soft as cloud king size beds that feature in many of the rooms. The busy Seapoint Main Road lies just out of earshot if you choose to stay in and enjoy the communal lounge area or the views from the rooftop.
- Unique Feature: Panoramic views of the Mother City.
- Rates: R900 - R5000, per night
- Address: 17 Loader St
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 418 0687
- +27 72 263 5585
- More Info: Website
Southern Suburbs
A retreat to the suburbs will have you feeling rested and relaxed. The Southern Suburbs provides visitors with the splendid backdrop of the back of Table Mountain. The surrounding mountains provide shelter from the Cape Doctor, making the suburbs the ideal spot for a relaxing getaway.
Willow Way
If cottage lifestyle and tranquility is what you are after then Willow Way should be your choice for a suburban getaway.. The self catering cottage is set on a pristine lawn that offers views of the Constantiaberg Mountain towering above.
The Constantia Village shopping centre is just 5 minutes away, making dining out a pleasure. The centre offers a variety of choices both during the day and after dark, featuring grocery stores for that late night snack.
- Unique Feature: The comfort of the suburbs with the views and feel of the countryside.
- Rates: R400 - R500, per person, per night
- Address: 35 Willow Rd, Constantia
- Contact Details:
- +27 83 357 4275
- More Info: Website
Kaya La Provence
A quiet retreat within the suburbs, neatly nestled on the border of Constantia and Plumstead lies this communal style guesthouse will have you feeling right at home. They have three overnight stay options available, two rooms within the manor itself and a separate cottage across the lawn.
Undercover braai facilities are available for those who choose to eat in, with yummy breakfasts served up each morning. The farm style kitchen will have any homemaker drooling; it is fully stocked and at your disposal.
No matter how long or short you plan to stay over at Kaya La Provence, it will be well worth the visit.
- Unique Feature: Outdoor swimming pool and sun deck featuring a jacuzzi.
- Rates: R700 - R990 per night
- Address:10 Students Way, Plumstead
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 7970024
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Tokai Forest Guest House
The Tokai Forest Guest House is a family run business that ensures their guests smaller needs are catered for. The mother-daughter duo pride themselves in providing the best hospitable service you can find at any guesthouse in the world.
The staff are both friendly and extremely professional and always willing to go the extra mile. With Tokai Forest in the backyard and the Constantiaberg Mountains filling the sky line, this is a nature lovers dream. If peace and quiet and the gentle sounds of nature is what you are after, look no further than Tokai Forest Guest House.
- Unique Feature: They house qualified therapist for onsite spa treatments.
- Rates: R850 per person, per night - R3025 per night.
- Address: 19 Dennendal East Avenue, Tokai
- Contact Details:
- +72 21 713 0670
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Southern Peninsula
Slowly growing as a tourist hotspot, the Southern Peninsula offers visitors an array of activities and seaside fun. With the warm Indian ocean gently caressing the seemingly endless white sand beaches, the Southern Peninsula is calling your name.
Capeblue Manor House
The Capeblue Manor House was built in 1927 but has been recently restored to the elegant building it once was all those years ago. The manor house is the classical Victorian Dutch style architecture with large stone white pillars framing wooden doorways.
The guesthouse also features the traditional undercover patio where you may take your morning coffee while listening to the birds chirp away. Quietly situated at the end of a cul de sac, you can be assured peace and tranquility are the only things that come knocking at your door.
- Unique Feature: 1 Minute walk from Muizenberg Beach
- Rates: R800 - R1100, per person, per night.
- Address: 10 Thaxter Rd, Muizenberg
- Contact Details:
- +72 21 788 6001
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Berg and Beach
Berg and Beach luxury self catering guesthouse came from humble beginnings. They have put time into creating a home away from home for your enjoyment.
In early 2012, owner, Paul was on the hunt for property in the Cape for both himself and his parents. When Paul discovered the Fish Hoek property, he promptly bought it, seeing the potential that the home offered. The property was in bad repair but Paul and his team took the time to turn the house into a luxurious retreat for discerning guests, now boasting 2 venues on the Southern Peninsula, The Apartment and Whales Echo.
The Apartment guest house is settled in the quiet village of Fish Hoek, the house is situated on the cliffs overlooking the entire False Bay. This lodging offers groups of up to 4 luxury accommodation with a home feel. The guest house features a well stocked kitchen and open-plan living area that opens to the wonderful views below. The 2 large bedrooms boast queen size beds, with artwork featured throughout by local SA artists.
The second location boasts unparalleled views at Whale's Echo in Glencairn, possibly the only views to top the apartments. This lodging offers a queen size bed and 2 single beds, sleeping a group of 4. Whale's Echo also has a full kitchen which will have all meals feeling home cooked.
Allow the fresh ocean air to replenish and relax you during your stay at Berg and Beach.
- Unique Feature: Breathtaking sunrises over the False Bay.
- Rates: R1390 - R1990 per night
- Address:
- 29 Carmichael Rd, Fish Hoek
- 18 Whytes Way, Glencairn
- Contact Details:
- +27 72 858 6746
- More Info: Website
Chartfield Guesthouse
The Chartfield Guesthouse is situated in the sought after residential area of Kalk Bay. Overlooking the harbour, you can expect to be woken by the sound of dim fog horns in the distance and breathtaking sunrises over the Hottentots Mountains.
The Guesthouse was built 120 years ago with luxury being the forefront of construction. Recently renovated, the traditional styled manor features classic Dutch architecture which is prominent in Cape Town.
Visitors can choose between various spacious bedrooms or a private cottage found on the premises. There is a full size swimming pool perfect cooling off during the very hot Cape Town summers.
- Unique Feature: Shopping at one of a kind boutiques all along the main road, which is just a 2 minute walk away.
- Rates: R1800 - R2600, per person, per night
- Address: 30 Gatesville Rd, Kalk Bay
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 788 3793
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
The Muize
The Muize is located in the prime beachfront property of Surfers Corner, with the Indian Ocean just a stones throw away. Local amenities like restaurants, cafes and corner stores litter the surrounding blocks. The beach lifestyle of Muizenberg is portrayed throughout.
The double story building boasts luxuriously decorated rooms where natural light streams through effortlessly. The renovated top floor room has balcony access and two bay windows that provide views of the mountain, river and sea.
They have 7 room options available all with it's own unique style, a scrumptious fresh breakfast is served every morning. They also offer guests 2 braai facilities with wood and coals provided for. Their cosy rooms invite you to extend your stay as this is a home away from home.
- Unique Feature: Wine selection from Cape Winelands.
- Rates: R675 - R1080, per person, per night
- Address: 4 Axminster Rd, Muizenberg
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 788 1950
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
A Tuscan Villa Guest House
The beautiful Italian Tuscan styled guesthouse features all the great qualities of the renaissance. The tall rounded dolmens welcome guests through the doors, where a large double volume room boasts a staircase leading to the various rooms.
The have an outdoor heated swimming pool and ample facilities to take in the sun. There is an undercover lapa with a braai place and seating available for those warm summer nights.
Quietly situated in the fishing town of Fish Hoek, this spot is the perfect get away from big city life. A stone's throw away from the ocean, trips to the beach cannot be more convenient.
- Unique Feature: Heated outdoor swimming pool.
- Rates: R950 - R1075, per person, per night.
- Address: 15 3rd Ave, Fish Hoek
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 782 7907
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Atlantic Seaboard
A true holiday makers paradise, the Atlantic Seaboard features the more premium accommodation options Cape Town has to offer. The crystal clear waters of the Atlantic ocean are a surfer's dream and the sunbathing opportunities are not to be missed.
Cape View Clifton
Cape View Clifton is a premium guesthouse with ocean facing rooms; you’ll never miss out on those spectacular seaside sunsets. Because of its setting, the location is well protected from the infamous Cape Town winds, making it the perfect place to spend the long summer nights outdoors.
The guesthouse offers 360 degree views of Table Mountain, the 12 Apostles Mountain range and the cool Atlantic Ocean. On really clear days you can catch a glimpse of Robben Island. Each room is luxuriously furnished and provides a secluded feel with private balconies that overlook Clifton beachfront below.
Watch the yachts sail by as the sun sets while you enjoy the complimentary cake station available at each room.
- Unique Feature: An in-house gym accessible to all guests.
- Rates: R5300 - R13 600, per night
- Address: 232 Kloof Road, Clifton
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 438 8748
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Cape Nelson Guest House
The Cape Nelson Guesthouse is situated in the heart of the bustling Sea Point area, just minutes from the beachfront. With an array of restaurants and stores close by, there are plenty shopping opportunities for you to enjoy during your stay in Sea Point.
If your stay is business related, travelling will be quite convenient as this spot is situated close to the city centre. The owners are always around to give you inside tips to make your stay more enjoyable.
There is a small private garden with a swimming pool as well as communal braai facilities. Receiving raving reviews, this affordable accommodation will have you wanting to return.
- Unique Feature: Private garden and swimming pool.
- Rates: R500 - R1300, per night
- Address: 18 Mount Nelson Rd, Sea Point
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 439 0288
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Villa Atlantica Boutique Guesthouse
Camps Bay is a favorite destination among overseas visitors and Villa Atlantica makes for the perfect place from where to explore Cape Town. Just 20 minutes from Cape Town a trip to the city has never been easier.
Each room provides a unique view of either the stunning garden, Table Mountain backdrop or the Atlantic Ocean. They now also feature a newly renovated private house that has its own lap swimming pool and garden, an ideal setting for a family getaway.
- Unique Feature: Deluxe suites offer private jacuzzis.
- Rates: R1540 - R11 900, per night
- Address: 55 Rottingdean Road, Camps Bay
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 438 9127
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Cape Flats
The Cape Flats might sound daunting but it boasts some of the best views of the mountain and city beneath it. Further inland you are sheltered from the cold winds that come off the ocean and warmed by the hospitality of the small guesthouses run here.
De Keurboom Guesthouse
De Keurboom Guesthouse was established in 1996 as the first of it’s kind in Kuilsriver, the large suburb just 32 minutes from the city centre you can easily retreat back after a day on the town.
There are two quaint cottages on the premises that can comfortably accommodate a small family. The cottages remind you of small suburban life and with the owner Linda’s extensive knowledge of hospitality she knows exactly what you need to feel right at home during your travels.
- Unique Feature: A mini library.
- Rates: R450, per person per night
- Address: 30 Keurboom Ave Amandelrug, Kuils River
- Contact Details:
- +27 83 301 4257
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Taj Lodge
The Taj Lodge is your modern overnight go-to that is both close to the city and only 15 minutes from the airport. The guesthouse is inviting and accommodating as it can house a family of almost any size.
Situated in the heart of Gatesville, The Taj is close to all local amenities, making popping out for a quick bite easy to do. However most guests choose to eat in with the huge variety of dishes available and cooked by the Taj staff themselves. The Taj is your home away from home.
- Unique Feature: the authentic home cooked foods.
- Rates: R1000 - R1300, per room, per night
- Address: 34 Pooke Rd, Gatesville
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 633 9932
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Beulah Land Guest House
The Beulah Land Guest House is a luxurious spot in the quiet, friendly suburb of Kuilsriver. The lavish rooms are elegantly decorated with modern touches throughout. There are variety of rooms that will have you spoilt for choice.
Being in this quiet suburb, you can be assured of tranquil and relaxing stay topped with a hot breakfast awaiting you each morning. Guests often making return visits due to the warm hospitality, stays here are always enjoyed.
- Unique Feature: In house catering for holiday functions like weddings, birthdays and small seminars.
- Rates: R500 - R900, per night
- Address: 18 Diamond Crescent, Highbury,
- Contact Details:
- +27 82 963 9870
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Tableview
The city away from the city. There is a reason the residents of this area hardly leave. The small suburbs here have everything, from seaside living to rich farm life with mountain views throughout.
@ Rosies
The fresh feeling atmosphere @ Rosie's puts a spring into everyone step, things just seem happier there. This unique combination of backpackers meets guesthouse allows you the privacy of lodging with the option of spreading those social butterfly wings.
This seaside house embodies what exactly it is to live by the ocean with modern touches throughout. The spacious deck provides uninterrupted ocean views. @ Rosie's offers accommodation to suite anyone's needs from the private apartment that easily sleeps a family of 4 to the Phefo bunk bed room.
- Unique Feature: @ Rosie's have bunkbeds.
- Rates: From R300 - R1300
- Address: 78 Coral Road, Table View
- Contact Details:
- +27 76 237 0344
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Awali Lodge
The name Awali means “for a new beginning” and that is exactly what you will find here, with carefully decorated rooms that provide the utmost privacy to the communal rooftop terrace and undercover braai area. You will leave feeling like a new person.
The Lodge offers uninterrupted views of Table Mountain in all it’s glory and anyone from Tableview will tell you just how spectacular the light is at dawn and dusk. The lodge caters to singles and large families with privacy and comfort being of the top priority.
- Unique Feature: Kiddies jungle gym.
- Rates: R800 - R1400, per night
- Address: 55 Erica Road Table View
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 556 2598
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Elements
Priding themselves on being neither a guest house nor a backpackers, Elements have combined the best of both worlds to create something out of this world. The colourfully decorated setting attracts the young at heart. Settled in the quiet suburb of Flamingo Vlei, you will feel safe and right at home.
The famous Blouberg Beach is 5 minutes away and is a foodies hotspot with many local favourite restaurants on the beach strip. Nothing is quite like the views of Table Mountain and Robben Island as the sun sets over the ocean.
- Unique Feature: Environmentally conscious; solar heated water unbleached toilet paper and recycled materials.
- Rates: vary
- Address: 49 Sandpiper Crescent, Table View
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 557 88 47
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Blue Mountain Guest House
The Blue Mountain Guest House has a long standing reputation for offering very comfortable accommodation. The double suites have separate entrances to the garden making for a secluded retreat.
The large saltwater swimming pool is both gentle on your skin and refreshing during the hot summer days. A short 10 minute walk from the guesthouse will have your feet in the white sand of Blouberg Beach, this is seaside living at its best. Wake up to the fresh ocean air as it clears away all of your worries.
- Unique Feature: A large saltwater pool.
- Address: 9 Warwick Rd, West Beach
- Contact Details:
- +27 21 554 1657
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Outlying Areas
Sometimes a break from the city is just what you need, but sometimes you don’t want to be that far from the hustle and bustle. The outlying areas around Cape Town offer just that. A 40 minute drive with have you at the city edge or beachside.
Wind-Rose Guest House
Situated on almost a hectare of indigenous land at the foot of the Hottentot Mountain range, Wind-Rose Guest House boasts spectacular views of False Bay below and of the towering mountain peaks above.
The Guest House is centrally located in Gordons Bay, an area that offers restaurants, beaches, horseback riding, bird watching, hiking trails, deep sea fishing, water skiing, diving, whale watching and wine tasting.
There is a large swimming pool that can be enjoyed by guests or spread out on the lush green lawns. The recreational room opens up to a communal braai area, where you can enjoy the sun setting over the Atlantic Ocean while sipping away on a cold beverage from the fully stocked bar.
The luxurious interior will have you wanting to extend your stay indefinitely, the large property is scattered with private nooks and hammocks to promote relaxation.
- Unique Feature: A full gym for all the fitness enthusiasts.
- Rates: R950 - R1550, per room
- Address: Plot 183 Firlands, 3rd Ave, Gordons Bay
- Contact Details:
- +27 84 224 4118
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Le Bay Guest House
Found in the small seaside village of Gordon’s Bay, Le Bay Guest House is a mere 60 meters from all amenities including the beach itself. Cool off in the calm waters of Gordon’s Bay or take in the rich culture and lifestyle the city has to show.
The double story guesthouse can accommodate any party from large groups to smaller ones. They pride themselves on making every guest feel at home away from their homes.
During your stay in Gordon's Bay, why not check out some of the activities on offer.
- Unique Feature: A traditional South African menu.
- Rates: R780 - R980, per night
- Address: 7 Sir Lowry St, Gordons Bay
- Contact Details: +27 21 856 1019
- More Info: Website
At The Rocks
Comfortably settled in the seaside village of Langebaan, At The Rocks has elevated views of the escarpment below. Opened in 2006, this pristine guest house’s upper level offers wide uninterrupted views over the green belt, the rocks, the village and the lagoon below.
The married business duo make catering a top priority. They are both warm and filled with advice and tips on what do while you enjoy your stay in the fishing village of Langebaan. The houses are photogenically decorated with small detailed touches that catch your eye.
Whether you’re enjoying a romantic getaway for two or a family trip, a stay here is one you will remember.
- Unique Feature: Upstairs bedrooms offer panoramic views of the Lagoon.
- Rates: R965 - R1065, per person, per night
- Address: 65 Tortilis Cres, Myburgh Park, Langebaan
- Contact Details:
- +27 22 772 0999
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Whittler’s Lodge
Whittler’s Lodge is nestled on the Hout Bay Valley mountainside and boasts views of the bay below. Hout Bay is stunning 25 minute mountain drive from Cape Town city centre with easily accessible public transport.
This beautiful lodge calls all nature lovers, with hiking trails just 2 minute walk from the property and two of Cape Town’s most beautiful beaches, Clifton and Llandudno, being only 10 minutes away. Whittler’s Lodge offers guests a comfortable stay.
There is a large green lawn that is gently shaded by the tall trees that surround the property. The massive clean swimming pool looks as inviting as the deep blue waters below in the bay. This three bedroom villa can easily accommodate a large family gathering, so plan your next reunion, gather your family and take a trip to Whittler’s Lodge.
- Unique Feature: Large outdoor swimming pool.
- Rates: R700 - R1200, per night
- Address: 36 Whittlers Way, Tierboskloof
- Contact Details:
- +27 82 771 8319
- [email protected]
- More Info: Website
Cape Town will have any visitor aching to return, no matter where you decide to stay, the air seems addictive and has many visitors making return trips. If picturesque settings are what you are after, a getaway to Cape Town is your dream come true.
For other weekend getaway ideas in and around Cape Town, take a look at this easily digestible guide.
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