Most escape to the country for a weekend away, while I prefer to head from the country into the city some urban infused living. The Westin Cape Town certainly offers exactly that, as I discovered on a recent visit .
I’d driven past it at least a hundred times, stared up at the neat lines, had huge respect for the brave window cleaners working their way down the floors, occupied a conference room and eaten lunch in Thirty7. Yet I never knew the hotel at all. An invitation to spend a night, therefore, had me set a date for early January, giving me something to look forward to as the new year got underway. Opting to embrace the experience solo, I drove through for early check-in. Guest liaison very much willing to assist however possible, leaving my first impression that of a warm and friendly welcome, richly focussed on personal customer service.
About my Room
My room was on the 18th floor and formed part of the Executive Club, offering exhilarating views towards the V&A Waterfront with all modern amenities. At 38m² the interiors are enhanced by a large desk facing the window, an ottoman easy chair, plenty of cupboard space, a safe, minibar and tea & coffee station. The spacious bathroom offered a bath and shower, with lovely products in use. The natural light gave a complete sense of space and welcome openness.
Yes, these rooms work perfectly for a businessman or conference delegate looking for simple lines and all the facilities we’ve come to expect of a luxury hotel, but more than that. It is friendly and welcoming, as well as immensely private for couples or families seeking a reprieve between exploring. If I was wondering why I slept so sweetly, their Sink into the Heavenly Beds is chosen to successfully offer restorative slumber. Helped along by crisp, white, 200–thread count sheets, plush pillows and custom pillow-top mattresses. It’s like stepping into a cloud for the night, and I did.
There are numerous room categories, but I’d opt to be as high as possible to maximise on the views. Also, the executive floors include complimentary drinks and canapés in ON19 each evening, a lovely touch.
Restaurants and Food Philosophy
Travel is hungry work and The Westin are committed to making sure that you replenish your energy with fresh ingredients and a range of delicious Super Food dishes that are packed with nutrients and energy, from whole-wheat blueberry pancakes to all-natural roasted turkey wraps and black bean hummus. the focus on health is welcome and refreshing.
Their breakfast spread smacks of goodness and that’s before you look at the options to order. Certainly living up to their Eat Well promotion. But don’t feel limited to this, there is culinary diversity to savour with a selection of restaurants and bars on offer from brasserie-style Thirty7 to ON19 with it’s incredible panoramic views. Book a window seat! There is also the option of a drink to end your day at Louis B’s & Terrace or Raleigh’s Cigar Bar.
NOTE: As a vegetarian at ON19 I had limited options, you may do well to announce in advance. Also, don’t worry about eating alone, the service staff are available for chats as and if required.
The Spa and the art of well-being
You get pools with views and then you get the 19th-floor pool at The Westin Cape Town. One of the best I’ve seen. Part of the Heavenly Spa with sauna, gym and treatment rooms on offer. All with ocean views. Incredible! Here you can experience the art of well-being, one that awakens your senses. From healing massages to cleansing facials and energising body treatments, every element of the spa visit is designed to smack of feel good. You can even opt to have a treatment in your own room.
With fitness and health key, you can take to the gym where the treadmill faces the ocean, tone up with their strength machines or grab a mat to stretch or do yoga. There is even the option of gym clothes and shoes on hire if you forget your own. For runners, the hotel has marked out three- and five-mile routes through the city, along the beach or into rural landscapes. They also have bicycles that you can loan.
Location and Things to Do
Location is everything, especially if you are coming to Cape Town for a conference, but as I learnt during my stay many of the bookings are for leisure guests. Located at the entrance to the Waterfront near Long Street, across from the Cape Town International Convention Centre and within short walking distance to the heart of the city. There is even a Free Shuttle To The V&A Waterfront Cape Town. Each room has a comprehensive guide of things to do and the concierge will happily help with planning your day and booking tours, activities and restaurants.
Being Green Matters
Something close to my heart, The Westin Cape Town believes that economic growth and the well-being of society are inextricably tied to the health of the environment and are committed to environmental practices and sustainability principles. Among them:
- Clean air helps energise the body and mind and the hotel is smoke-free. As the first major hotel brand to convert to a smoke-free policy, they’ve set the stage for others to follow.
- Conserving natural resources
- Minimising waste and pollution
- Enhancing indoor environmental quality
- Establishing environmental performance indicators
- Raising environmental awareness among our associates, guests and communities
It’s also easily recognisable in its green walls, indoor plants and recycling policies, as well as environmentally friendly products in use. They may be at the heart of the Foreshore, but green matters. Read their Green Policy and see the Green Program that guests can participate in. They also have a myriad of conference rooms and facilities on offer.
Important to remind that this hotel is not strictly corporate or conference-specific, families, couples and young loves are finding there way here to maximise on the location and facilities. There’s a young feel about the place, a freshness successfully achieved. I think it’s enhanced by the natural light that streams into the rooms and ON19 and Spa.
When staying do pay attention to the excellent art, brightly patterned carpets and slightly muted tones with splashes of green and red, all enhanced by gentle and clever lighting. Also to the smiles of all who work there. It’s very relaxing while succeeding in fuelling the spirits.
At The Westin Cape Town everything seems to be designed to help you feel your best. From their beds to superfoods, pool and gym, with the sole purpose of having you leave feeling better than did when you arrived. They’re succeeding, I did. Stronger for the break and grateful for the considerate service that is both discreet and heartfelt. Thank you for having me.
Connect with The Westin Cape Town on their Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube and keep an eye out for their specials and packages. A most excellent option for your stay in Cape Town.
Disclaimer: Thank you to Positive Dialogue for arranging my stay and to The Westin Cape Town for hosting me so graciously. It was a much appreciated and lovely urban breakaway. Four top pics supplied.
