Words by Yvonne C Mtengwa
A visit to Cape Town is always one for the books. Arguably the most eclectic and epicurean of destinations on the continent of Africa, Cape Town takes you on a journey through historical Dutch influence, the pulsatingnature of lifestyle and entertainment, all with a backdrop of a unique blend of the arts, infusion of culture and appeal of natural landscapes.
And in the iconic V&A Waterfront District lies the Victoria & Alfred Hotel by Newmark, a boutique hotel that awards discerning guests an opportunity to immerse themselves in a living tapestry of Cape Town’s history and contemporary luxury. This iconic establishment, enveloped within the heart of the Mother City’s most iconic lifestyle destinations, is more than just a hotel; it’s a portal to the city’s soul.
Originally a 1904 North Quay warehouse, the building’s industrial heritage is a stark contrast to its current incarnation as a sophisticated haven. Newmark Hotels& Resorts, a boutique hospitality brand with a keen eye for preserving history while infusing modern elegance, transformed this space into a living testament to Cape Town’s evolution. The hotel’s design is a masterful blend of raw industrial elements – exposed brick, high ceilings, and large windows – juxtaposed with sleek furnishings and contemporary art. It’s a space where most would agreethat the past and present coexist in perfect harmony.
Chic Accommodations within the Waterfront’s Pulse
The Victoria & Alfred Hotel is more than just a place to sleep; it’s a vantage point to the vibrant pulse of Cape Town. Take for instance the hotel’s location within the V&A Waterfront, which puts guests at the epicenter of the city’s energy. A check-in will award you accommodations that are contemporary, as much as they are cosy, boasting only the finest crisp linens laid across plush beds, pillows to hug you as you sleep and amenities that speak the language of convenience and luxury. Big bay windows in the habour-facing rooms and suites, and equally stand out windows in others facing the retail and entertainment district, deliver natural light by day and a call to relish in the district’s vibrancy by night.
The Waterfront itself is a marvel of urban regeneration, transforming a once-bustling harbour into a world-class shopping, dining, and lifestyle destination that welcomes the visitation of millions from across Africa and the world each year. From the moment you step outside the hotel, you’re immersed in a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells, heralding the fact that your window to the continent’s southernmost cityscape have just now opened, with a call to explore further.
Plated at Ginja
The hotel’s Ginja Restaurantcelebrates a culinary journey in itself. With its contemporary twist on classic dishes and a wine list that displays South Africa’s rich viticulture, it’s the perfect place to indulge your senses while enjoying a view whose image could sit on any postcard or photo album. As you savour your meal of the day’s fresh catch, or perhaps something else, piping hot from the grill and accompanied by a salad or side dish made from locally sourced ingredients, be rest assured that the panoramic views of the adjacent harbour and Table Mountain, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, fuse together tocreate a backdrop that is both inspiring and relaxing. Ginja is a welcoming home for both in-house guests and diners passing by and looking for a great place to enjoy an array of plated offerings.
Beyond the Victoria & Alfred Hotel by Newmark’s Walls
A mere few steps outside the hotel’s walls, a world of exploration awaits. Take a leisurely stroll along the Waterfront promenade, browsing the designer boutiques and artisanal shops that showcase a host of fashion item infused by South African culture, jewellery and pottery made from local elements and decorative art pieces that could find their home on any wall or table. For history into the evolution of African art, the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art (Zeitz Mocaa), routinely hosts exhibitions and events that are open to the public. Not to mention the imposing architectural splender that is this art domain, an epic display of a mashup between space and concrete.
Nature and history buffs can take a drive up to the nearby Castle of Good Hope, a must-visit, adventure seekers can embark on a boat trip to Robben Island, a poignant reminder of South Africa’s past and wine lovers can carve a day out for a little wine tasting expedition through the winelands. And for those seeking natural beauty, Table Mountain is a short yet scenic drive away, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, whether you decide to take a hike or take a cable car up.
Staying at the Victoria & Alfred Hotel is more than just a vacation; it’s an experience that encapsulates the essence of Cape Town. In a city that’s replete with things to do for one with a penchant for the finer experiences in life, checking into this property is not only a chance to step back in time, but also one to embrace the city’s vibrant present. It’s a place where history and luxury intertwine to create an unforgettable stay.
To book your stay at the Victoria & Alfred Hotel by Newmark visit https://newmarkhotels.com/accommodation/the-victoria-alfred-hotel
Yvonne C Mtengwa is the Founder/Editor-in-Chief of the award-winning Travel Essence Magazine, a Communications Strategist by profession, with an avid passion for discovering Africa and the Middle East’s iconic landscapes through her travels. Connect with and follow her travel, tourism, and lifestyle experiences on: IG @Quintessentially_yvonne.
