Hotel Review: The Cullinan, Cape Town

This Southern Sun hotel is a hit with business and leisure travellers, writes Shanthini Naidoo

STYLE

Classic, colonial, with high, sprawling staircases, tall columns, massive flower arrangements in the foyer . this is a grandiose offering.

The intimate pool area has striped deck chairs under palms, which have a South of France sort of feel, but with the mountain backdrop bringing it home to Cape Town. Tapas and sundowners are a must here.

SERVICE

These good people remember your name and take the time to drop off sweets and nuts for your young companions in your room ahead of your arrival, along with a soft toy rhino and rooibos body butter.

Good parking assistance, the restaurant service was exceptional and the spa assistants are accommodating of guests' hectic schedules, which are par for the course at this hotel catering to busy bees, in and out for work purposes.

DINING

Breakfasts are as lavish as they come. No caviar, but you won't want for anything else.

For lunches and dinners, have the buffet (with Cape cuisine and continental standards, such as roasts and trimmings, done really well) or fancier à la carte offerings at the Peach Tree Restaurant.

We also tried the in-room dining and what was under the cloche was spectacular, down to the little butter dish and sauces accompanying our lamb chops. Still that's to be expected, given executive chef Henrico Grobbelaar's long list of accolades.

ACTIVITIES

There is the on-site Mangwanani Spa and a regular shuttle to the V&A Waterfront. Of course, you have all that Cape Town has to offer on your doorstep.

BEST TIME TO GO

All year round. Just make sure you get a booking as it is an affordable, thus busy, spot.

FACILITIES

There are about 400 rooms, smartly furnished, efficient for the business traveller yet comfortable for families. The views are great, even on lower floors with the cranes poking out behind the cityscape and Chapman's Peak to the left.

There's a wide windowsill to catch the sun and watch the seagulls go by. With a fitness centre, conference facilities, restaurants and bars, there's no need to leave, really.

RATES

Approximately R2,300 per night per room, but best available rate applies.

CONTACT

Phone 021-415-4000 or visit Tsogosun.com/the-cullinan.

ADDRESS

1 Cullinan Street, Cape Town.