A Local’s Guide to Exploring Cape Town from Cape Grace
At Cape Grace, we believe that the true essence of travel lies in discovering not just the destination, but its soul – the quiet corners where daily life unfolds, the time-honoured traditions passed down through generations, and the people who infuse the city with its unmistakable spirit. More than just a luxury hotel, we are proud to be part of Cape Town’s living story.
Perfectly positioned in the heart of the vibrant V&A Waterfront, Cape Grace offers unparalleled access to some of the city’s most beloved and authentic experiences. From world-renowned landmarks to tucked-away neighbourhood cafés, our location makes it effortless to explore Cape Town from the Waterfront, whether you are here to uncover its celebrated icons or discover something entirely unexpected.
Be it your first time in the city or a much-anticipated return, allow us to be your gracious guide through a journey of local attractions, cultural encounters, and flavourful discoveries. The Cape Grace concierge team is always on hand with tailored recommendations, ensuring that every moment of your stay is filled with meaningful connections and effortless elegance.
From the historic streets of Bo-Kaap and the breathtaking views atop Table Mountain, to curated culinary tours and vibrant local markets, many of Cape Town’s most compelling sights are just minutes from your suite. When choosing where to stay in Cape Town for convenient access to its many attractions, Cape Grace stands out as the preferred choice for the discerning traveller – an elegant sanctuary where the spirit of the city unfolds, one unforgettable moment at a time.
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Let Us Show You Our Cape Town
To explore Cape Town from the Waterfront is to step into the heart of the city’s vibrant soul – a unique convergence of culture, history, and natural beauty. From the rhythm of the harbour to the welcoming spirit of our local communities, every moment spent here reveals a new layer of Cape Town’s rich identity. Whether you are drawn to the city’s world-famous landmarks or its lesser-known gems, the V&A Waterfront is the ideal starting point for meaningful discovery.
Each morning, as the sun casts golden light across Table Mountain and dances upon the marina just outside our doors, our dedicated team begins crafting personalised experiences for our guests. With thoughtful Cape Grace concierge recommendations, we curate immersive journeys that go beyond the ordinary – be it a guided walk through Bo-Kaap’s colourful streets, an intimate dinner at a hidden culinary treasure, or a private tour of local art galleries and historic sites.
When you stay at Cape Grace, you are perfectly placed to uncover local attractions, taste authentic flavours, and connect with the city the way locals do. This is Cape Town travel reimagined – effortless, enriching, and unforgettable.
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Day Trips and Iconic Moments
Some places in Cape Town need no introduction, yet we delight in sharing them with our guests in a way that feels both personal and profound.
Table Mountain, ever-present on our skyline, stands just a short distance from Cape Grace and offers sweeping views of the city, coastline, and Cape Peninsula. Whether you prefer to ascend via the iconic aerial cableway or take to one of the scenic hiking trails, this natural wonder is a must for any Cape Town itinerary, and conveniently close when you stay with us.
Wander a little further and you will find yourself in the heart of Bo-Kaap, a historic neighbourhood where local culture and heritage come to life. With its vibrant, technicoloured homes and deeply rooted Cape Malay traditions, Bo-Kaap invites you to connect with the stories, flavours, and families that have shaped this unique community for generations.
A short ferry ride from the V&A Waterfront brings you to Robben Island, a site of deep historical and emotional resonance. Tours led by former political prisoners provide powerful insight into South Africa’s past and the resilience of the human spirit. It is a moving, unforgettable experience, and one that many of our guests say becomes a highlight of their visit.
When considering the best hotel near Table Mountain and Robben Island, Cape Grace offers more than proximity; we offer a curated and thoughtful approach to exploring these landmarks. As your luxurious home in the city, we ensure that these iconic sights are not just seen, but truly experienced.
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Markets and Food, the Local Way
Our guests often ask us where to find the true taste of Cape Town, the kind that lingers long after the meal is over. Our answer is always the same: follow the locals.
Just a short stroll from Cape Grace, the Oranjezicht City Farm Market is a beloved weekend tradition. Set along the water’s edge, this open-air market is a vibrant celebration of fresh, seasonal produce, artisanal fare, and the warm community spirit that defines the Mother City. Whether you are searching for a wholesome brunch, handcrafted treats, or a relaxed Saturday outing, it is a delightful way to begin your day.
Further afield in Woodstock, the Neighbourgoods Market offers an energetic, urban twist on the local food scene. Housed in the Old Biscuit Mill, this buzzing marketplace brings together live music, gourmet street food, local crafts, and a dynamic crowd of Capetonians and visitors alike.
Closer to home, the V&A Waterfront serves as a gateway to the city’s diverse culinary heritage. From bold Cape Malay spices to freshly shucked oysters, the Waterfront offers a curated selection of flavours that represent local food and culture near the V&A Waterfront at its most authentic and accessible.
Of course, no culinary journey is complete without the personalised touch of our team. With thoughtful Cape Grace concierge recommendations, your dining experiences can be tailored to your individual tastes, whether you desire an intimate dinner in a historic wine cellar, a chef-led tour of Cape Town’s hidden food gems, or a private wine tasting in the Cape Winelands.
Cape Town is a city of flavours, and at Cape Grace, we ensure you savour each one in unforgettable style.
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Our Concierge Recommends…
At Cape Grace, our concierge service is far more than a practical amenity – it is a personal invitation to experience Cape Town in a way that is deeply enriching, tailored, and unforgettable. We believe that the most memorable journeys are not only about where you go, but how those moments are shaped and shared.
Our team takes great pride in crafting bespoke itineraries that uncover Cape Town’s hidden gems, authentic encounters, and quiet beauty – those moments that most travellers never see, but that stay with you long after your stay.
Whether you dream of Cape Town day tours to the Cape Winelands, a sunset cruise across Table Bay, a guided gallery walk through the city’s thriving art scene, or an afternoon among the vineyards of Constantia, our Cape Grace concierge recommendations are always made with thoughtful attention, deep local knowledge, and a genuine desire to connect you with the soul of the city.
No two guests are alike, which is why no two itineraries are either. Tell us what inspires you, be it history, nature, cuisine, or culture, and we will design a Cape Town experience shaped around your interests, your rhythm, and your sense of wonder.
At Cape Grace, discovery is not just effortless – it is personal.
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Returning to Grace
After a day spent exploring Cape Town’s vibrant streets, storied landmarks, and local attractions, we welcome you back to the quiet elegance of Cape Grace – a sanctuary where the pace slows and every detail is designed with care.
Here, the city’s energy gives way to serenity. Restore body and mind in our spa with a bespoke treatment, designed to ease tension and reawaken the senses. Find a tranquil moment beside the pool, where the mountain air and marina views offer a soothing backdrop to the afternoon. Or indulge in our signature Afternoon Tea, served in the library or on the terrace, where handcrafted pastries and fine teas create a gentle pause in your day.
Start with the Essentials: Breakfast and Marina Views
There is no better way to begin your day in Cape Town than with a leisurely breakfast at Heirloom Restaurant, located within Cape Grace. Here, seasonal Cape flavours are the star, and each dish is inspired by the rich culinary heritage of the Western Cape and made with locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.
We recommend taking your time, savouring the textures, aromas, and heritage woven into each dish. Every element is carefully curated to reflect the rich bounty of the Western Cape and our commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. Explore our breakfast menu to see how we draw inspiration from local flavours and seasonal ingredients. Our dinner menu, in turn, pays tribute to the land, its people, and the time-honoured culinary traditions passed down through generations.
After breakfast, take a stroll along the private marina that wraps around Cape Grace. With Table Mountain rising in the background and the gentle sound of boats in the harbour, this quiet moment is one of the city’s simplest, yet most memorable luxuries – perfect for travellers seeking peaceful, scenic experiences in Cape Town.
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Discover Our Stories: Art, Heritage & Local Design
At Cape Grace, our story is Cape Town’s story. We have taken great care to reflect the soul of the city in every space, from the individually decorated guest rooms to the handcrafted furnishings, antique pieces, and carefully selected artworks that line our halls.
Each room reveals a different layer of South African culture and heritage, featuring details created by local artists and artisans. Our interiors are inspired by the Cape’s colonial, nautical, and botanical histories, blending storytelling with quiet sophistication.
In our Library Lounge and hotel spaces, you will find curated books, objets d’art, and décor elements that invite you to pause, learn, and explore. Our team is always happy to share the background behind these pieces, many of which support local craftsmanship and regional design traditions.
Looking to dive deeper? Our concierge team can curate personalised experiences, including visits to nearby art galleries, historic walking tours, or introductions to Cape Town’s creative community. It is a unique way to connect with the city – not just through its sights, but through its stories.
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Dine Like a Local: Relaxed Elegance at Every Turn
When staying with Cape Grace, there is no need to venture far to experience the best of Cape Town’s vibrant dining culture. We invite you to enjoy cocktails at our Pool Bar and seasonal poolside snacks during the warmer months, all while taking in stunning views of the harbour and city skyline. The pool area offers a peaceful retreat – perfect for a leisurely brunch, an afternoon refreshment, or simply unwinding in the sun.
For a quintessentially elegant experience, join us at Heirloom Restaurant for our renowned Afternoon Tea, a luxurious high tea-inspired experience, where local flavours meet timeless sophistication in a beautifully curated selection of teas, pastries, and savoury bites – ideal for an afternoon indulgence.
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As the day fades into evening, make your way to Bascule Bar, a favourite gathering spot for both locals and travellers. With its extensive collection of fine spirits, expertly crafted cocktails, and a relaxed marina-side atmosphere, Bascule Bar is perfect for everything from sophisticated cocktails to refined whisky tastings. If you are lucky, you may even catch a rugby match with Cape Town locals – a true taste of authentic city life just steps from your room.
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Return to Stillness: Spa & Evening Rituals
After a day of exploring the city, wine farms, or coastal trails, return to Cape Grace and embrace a slower rhythm. Our Fairmont Spa is a sanctuary of calm, offering treatments that draw from African botanicals, marine minerals, and time-honoured wellness traditions.
Whether you choose a therapeutic massage, revitalising facial, or a signature body treatment, our spa experiences are designed to help you reconnect and restore balance.
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Round off your evening in a way that suits your mood, perhaps a quiet drink in our Library Lounge, a late-night conversation at Bascule Bar, or a peaceful moment on your private balcony overlooking the water. At Cape Grace, the pace slows, the city softens, and the day ends with effortless grace.
At Cape Grace, we believe that true Cape Town travel blends discovery with deep relaxation. That is why every element of your stay, from turn-down rituals to intuitive, personalised service, is curated to ensure you feel entirely at ease, and entirely at home.
This is more than a luxurious escape. It is a place to reconnect, to reflect, and to return to yourself and to the comfort of Grace.
Begin Your Journey
For discerning travellers asking where to stay in Cape Town for easy access to local sights, Cape Grace offers much more than convenience; it offers a genuine connection to the city’s heart and soul.
From iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and Robben Island to the vibrant local markets and hidden treasures tucked just around the corner, all are within effortless reach when you make Cape Grace your home. Here, every experience is personalised, every moment curated with care, and every stay imbued with the warmth and grace that define Cape Town itself.
Book your stay with Cape Grace Hotel today and allow us to be your guide, your sanctuary, and your gateway to exploring Cape Town as a local, where luxury meets authenticity in perfect harmony.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Where is Cape Grace located in Cape Town?
Cape Grace is located at the heart of the V&A Waterfront, offering guests stunning views of the marina, Table Mountain, and easy access to Cape Town’s top attractions.
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What dining options are available at Cape Grace?
Cape Grace features several dining experiences, including breakfast and high tea at Heirloom Restaurant, seasonal poolside snacks during summer, and cocktails and whisky tastings at Bascule Bar.
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Does Cape Grace have a spa?
Yes, the Spa at Cape Grace offers a range of treatments using indigenous botanicals and marine minerals designed to relax and rejuvenate guests.
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Can I book local tours and experiences through Cape Grace?
Yes, the concierge team at Cape Grace arranges personalised tours, including cultural walks, art gallery visits, wine tastings, and historic city tours.
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Is Cape Grace suitable for families?
Cape Grace welcomes families and provides amenities and accommodations tailored for guests of all ages.
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What attractions are near Cape Grace?
Nearby attractions include the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, Robben Island, local markets, museums, and art galleries, all within easy reach.
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Does Cape Grace have a pool?
Yes, Cape Grace has a private pool and Pool Bar, perfect for enjoying light meals and drinks during warmer months.
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Is Cape Grace suitable for business travellers?
Cape Grace caters to business travellers with meeting facilities, reliable high-speed internet, and personalised concierge services.
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When is the best time to visit Cape Grace?
The best time to visit Cape Grace is during Cape Town’s summer months (November to March) for warm weather and outdoor dining, but the hotel welcomes guests year-round.
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How do I book a stay at Cape Grace?
You can book your stay directly on the Cape Grace official website or through trusted luxury travel platforms and agents.