The Vineyard Hotel & Spa is an establishment steeped in history. It is a grand old lady with colourful secrets to share A green oasis only minutes from the hustle and bustle of the Mother City A popular spot for residents and visitors in Cape Town
Why? The question is easy to answer if you look at its beautiful setting. The hotel is nestled in the shade of Table Mountain, surrounded by six acres of manicured lawns and gardens. It comprises the original country home of Lady Anne Barnard and has been improved continuously through the years.
Lady Anne Barnard - an important historical figure in the Cape of Storms - has been commemorated in several ways A chamber in the Castle of Good Hope is known as her ballroom and the suburb of Newlands boasts Lady Anne Avenue. But her legendary style has been captured effortlessly within the walls of the Vineyard. You can almost picture her warming her hands by the fire or entertaining guests in the foyer as you explore the newest - and oldest - parts of the hotel.
The Vineyard was recently voted the Best Hotel Wedding Reception Venue at the VOW awards in Johannesburg, eclipsing more than 150 other establishments from across the country.
There was a wedding in progress on the day I checked in and the lawns were filled with glamorous men and women sipping champagne and paying tribute to the happy couple.
Other guests were bracing themselves against the crisp winter air with glasses of red wine and cups of steaming coffee at the Garden Lounge & Patio. This relaxed venue is a great place to unwind after a long day and overlooks the rolling lawns. Nearby water features augment the serenity of the surroundings.
Foodies are spoilt for choice at the Vineyard. The Square restaurant is located in the centre of the hotel and serves as a meeting place for guests and visitors.
Modern cuisine and a fabulous sushi bar have ensured its popularity. Buffet breakfasts are also served here and there is something to tempt every palate. Try the seasonal fruit with honey (on tap) and savour hot croissants with a selection of cheeses and sliced meats.
Myoga (meaning "ginger blossom" in Japanese) is owned and operated by chef and restaurateur Mike Bassett. The on-site eatery is wildly popular and booking is essential. Expect contemporary fusion cuisine and a relaxed ambiance. The decor is understated and allows the artworks on your plate to shine as the stars of the show.
And if you indulge too much, you can always burn off a few calories in the gym or be massaged into complete relaxation by the talented ladies at the Angsana Spa.
The therapists at Angsana are trained in the East and you can expect top-notch service and personal attention from the moment you walk through the door.
Dress in comfortable, loose clothing, as the spa is several degrees warmer than the rest of the hotel. And try the herbal tea with lemon as a refreshing pick-me-up before your treatment.
- Contact the hotel on +27 21 657 4500 or visit the websites for more information: