One&Only Cape Town

"Start us off with an overview.The only South African outpost of One&Only has a prime V&A Waterfront location next door to the Two Oceans Aquarium. Much more of a resort than a city hotel, it has space in abundance and everything is dramatically scaled, including the reception lobby leading into Vista Bar and Lounge, the social heart of the hotel where cocktails, high tea and light meals are served in great style. Triple-volume glass windows frame views of Table Mountain, and the air is infused with a distinctive woody room fragrance—something you remember instantly as a returning guest. Who else is staying here?Brand-conscious families, young couples, small groups on tour. Onto the good stuff: Tell us about your room.Despite opening in 2010, the dark wood-heavy interiors with burnt-orange and rust accents (throws, cushions, chairs) haven’t dated much. It’s all about the location and views, after all. In winter, one of the 91 Marina Rise rooms gets my vote—you’re in the main building, close to two of the three restaurants, the bar, wine cellar, fitness centre, kids’ club, and Neo boutique. The bathroom can be separated from the bedroom by sliding panels, or opened up for a greater sense of space. Even the entry level rooms have an egg-shaped bath, rain shower, and dual marble vanities. Gunshot Table Mountain views from the balcony are best from the fifth floor. In Summer, one of the 40 island suites are the place to be—quieter and more spacious, they may not have a view to speak of, but you’re steps from the spa, free-form infinity pool, and Isola Restaurant (hotel guests only). How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies?The Wi-Fi is free and good. A great selection of speciality teas, a Nespresso machine, homemade snacks and some local artisanal brands in the mini bar. Fresh fruit on arrival, and a bottle of red wine. What other food and drink offerings can we expect?It boasts the only outpost in Africa of Nobu with its exquisite synthesis of traditional Japanese cuisine married to Peruvian flavors. Besides all Nobu’s well-known signature dishes and a sushi counter with ample seating, it also has a cosy mezzanine-level bar. Ochre is the new everyday eatery focused on South African cuisine and local ingredients, from fresh West Coast mussels, venison and Cape Malay favorites, like bobotie, curries, and pumpkin fritters. Service is friendly and well versed. The breakfast is an epic buffet followed by hot dishes to order, and special attention is given to children who can decorate their own waffles in the pastry kitchen. In-house guests can also dine poolside at the café-style Isola Restaurant, which serves wood-fired pizza, tapas, sandwiches and salads. Anything stand out about other services and features?The kids’ club offers art and crafts, baking and cooking classes, outdoor games and supervised visits to the next-door Two Oceans Aquarium. Excursions beyond the hotel for teens include surfing lessons (at extra cost) and hiking. The spa is a destination in its own right, situated on its own little island, with 12 treatment rooms, private wet areas, and a yoga pavilion in the garden. Make use of the spa thermal suites, even if you don’t book a spa treatment. His-and-hers hydrotherapy facilities each have a vitality pool, aroma-steam room, sauna, ice fountain and experience showers. One of the coolest gyms in the city, with personal trainers, the latest fitness equipment, boxing, bootcamp, yoga, mat-based pilates. Natural light streams in through huge windows facing the setting sun. Private dining high above Ochre, for show-offs! A 12-seater ‘see and be seen’ tasting table is elevated above the main restaurant next to the glass-box wine loft with storage for 5000 bottles. Bottom line: is the hotel worth it, and why?The One&Only’s prime location in the V&A Waterfront offers the best of both worlds - close enough to all the attractions of the Waterfront as well as the city, but still envelops you in a blissful bubble of privacy like only a resort hotel can." - Jane Broughton