Words by Yvonne C Mtengwa

Cape Town, a vibrant city that continues to break records among Africa’s most iconic destinations to explore. With enviable, ultra chic settings to offer the lifestyle enthusiast, you’ll be hard pressed to not find something inspiring about being nestled between mountains and the ocean. Each turn presents a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. And right in the heart of the Central Business District of this captivating city, lies the Onyx Hotel by Newmark, a contemporary haven promising a luxurious and unforgettable stay for the bleisure traveller

It took only a swift, 20-minute drive from the airport in the cool of the air-conditioned Volkswagen SUV that had been arranged for my pickup to get me to my first hotel on this circuit. On the cards was a week-long exploration of what was new on the boutique hotel scene the Mother City with the Newmark Hotels & Reserves portfolio, a hospitality group I have since fallen in love with since my very first stay at one of their properties a few years ago. Cape Town, South Africa, thrums with an infectious energy. From the majestic Table Mountain to the vibrant V&A Waterfront, the city offers a beguiling blend of natural beauty and urban buzz. Here I was again, expectant for the days ahead.

I’d been no stranger to stepping into a world of “city chic” of late, and so I really looked forward to experiencing The Onyx, which upon checking in, felt to me like South African vibrancy seamlessly blends with the elegance of a New York loft. The hotel’s design philosophy revolves around creating a sense of home away from home, evident in its spacious and well-appointed apartment-style rooms.

A Haven of Comfort: The Onyx’s Room Design

I burst into a suite showered in natural light that filtered through imposing floor-to-ceiling windows. Contrasting views of the commercial district below, and the mountainous landscape was perfectly capture in the foreground from the frame that was my balcony.  Gone are the days of cramped hotel rooms. Dare I say the avid traveller would add these to their list of allergens. The Onyx isn’t your typical hotel; stellar in fact, in that it offers a collection of stylish, fully-equipped apartments, perfect for both short and extended stays. Imagine stepping into a haven that feels less like a hotel room and more like your own private Cape Town pied-à-terre. Apartments range from cozy studios to expansive penthouses, catering to solo travellers, couples, and families alike.

My space was meticulously designed with a contemporary aesthetic, boasting sleek finishes, curated artwork and modern furnishings of grey, black and white tones. Emerald green cushions lay as accents on the living room’s comfy sofa, and plush carpeting underfoot. The kitchenette came fully equipped, featuring stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and all the necessary utensils to whip up a gourmet meal or simply heat up leftovers.

Because my days in were made up of a series of virtual meetings, I made the living area my office turned sanctuary to work and unwind from, especially as each day came to a close. High-speed Wi-Fi ensures kept me connected, while the premium entertainment systems kept me engaged, even on the evening I had a dear friend come over for hearty gossip over our bottle of crisp Capetonian wine. The Onyx truly understands the needs of modern travellers, providing a space that felt like an extension of my home, yet infused with the spirit of Cape Town.

Because you’ll likely choose The Onyx while on business travel, this property by Newmark Hotels & Reserves understands the importance of a good night’s sleep, especially after a long journey or day. My bedroom was havens of tranquillity, featuring a plush king-size bed draped in crisp linens. Storage space was ample, and en-suite bathrooms functionally luxurious, with walk-in showers, top-of-the-line toiletries, and fluffy towels.

Culinary Escapades at The Onyx

While your fully-equipped apartment kitchen allows for culinary exploration (who cooks when on holiday though?) you won’t want to miss the opportunity to indulge in the delectable offerings at the Onyx Hotel’s restaurants.  I was encouraged to carve out a night where I would enjoy dinner downstairs at Yu – a contemporary spot for Asian Tapas and fancy drinks. Did the chefs outdo themselves? My experience lived up to its reputation for sophisticated yet warm hospitality, with platter upon platter being served of rich, decadent staples in Asian cuisine; from sushi and sashimi to seafood, fried rice, bao, ribs and premium steak cuts.  The atmosphere at Yu was a fantastic ode to innovative South African cuisine with an Asian inspired twist, alongside a bar serving up craft cocktails and a curated wine list.

Unwind and Recharge while on the move

Though sunny, temperatures were a tad nippy, and so taking a swim didn’t come highly on my list of things to do. Guests that love a good pool day while in-house can however, take a refreshing dip in the sparkling indoor-outdoor pool, located on the fourth floor. And this pool is heated, boasting an indoor-outdoor placement that allows you to enjoy it from within the space it is located or outdoors where sweeping views of Table Mountain beckon. I also quite loved that the pool area also featured a sundeck with loungers, perfect for soaking up the warm South African sun and enjoying panoramic city views over your cocktail of choice.  Not one to miss out on an opportunity to burn a few calories, I took to the gym for my early morning or post-dining invigorating experience in the well-equipped gym.

Exploring the “nearby” Cape Town

The Onyx Hotel by Newmark boasts a prime location in the Cape Town Foreshore, placing you within walking distance of the city’s top attractions and vibrant energy. A short stroll away lies the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), a hub for conferences, exhibitions, and events. Art enthusiasts will find themselves within easy reach of the Artscape Theatre Centre, a renowned venue for plays, musicals, and dance performances. Those with a penchant for learning and discovery can delve into the rich maritime history at the Two Oceans Aquarium.

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to exploring the scenic beauty of Cape Town’s natural wonders. Hike or take a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline. Signal Hill and Lion’s Head offer equally stunning vistas and are popular choices for outdoor enthusiasts.

And then there’s the vibrant V&A Waterfront, a bustling harbour precinct overflowing with your favourite retail outlets, restaurants, concept eateries, and entertainment options. For a taste of Cape Town’s legendary nightlife, I made sure to head out to Long Street for a night out with the girls, a lively strip brimming with bars, pubs, and clubs. On my itinerary to fit the rudimentary box carrying a tour of more cultural experiences, was exploring the historical district of Bo-Kaap, known for its brightly coloured houses and rich Malay heritage.  

The Onyx wasn’t just a place to stay; it provided me a luxurious yet comfortable abode from which to explore the vibrant city of Cape Town. With its stylish apartments, top-notch amenities, and unbeatable location that puts me in close proximity of the city’s hot spots in arts, culture, entertainment and dining, it’s a shore bet to keep up on the pulse of the best of Cape Town during your trip to the Mother City.  

Visit https://newmarkhotels.com/accommodation/the-onyx-hotel to learn more about The Onyx 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.