I’d been to Tintswalo Atlantic a couple of years ago, yet somehow my memory had failed to retain the exact detail of how the natural beauty mixes with the sound of the ocean; the exquisite afternoon light bounces off the welcoming wooden deck and colourful plush couches, and how the outline of the mountain stretches out as if to anchor the bay. This is a place that needs to be seen and felt – regularly.
Arguably the best location in the city, it was a treat to be invited to spend a night here to experience the luxury, comfort, warmth and generous hospitality that Tintswalo Atlantic offers. Tucked amongst the trees and fynbos on a hill that slopes gently towards the ocean, we arrived to our suite as the incoming tide was bringing waves crashing onto the rocks. The shades of blue, teal and turquoise complemented by the natural wood and quality finishes, while the mirrors in the sunbathed bathroom reflected the sea views. The ridiculously comfy bed and abundance of soft cushions and throws were a haven from the chill that set in after dark, while a fireplace stood ready just in case. Here every luxury and amenity is considered.
In the morning as we threw back the curtains, a silhouette of the Hout Bay mountain greeted us, followed by the rise of the sun and the dawn of a new day. As we took a slow start and lingered in our plush gowns and slippers, steaming hot cappuccinos were delivered to the rooms. What a way to start a day.
Sunset appreciation from the island suite deck.
The pool is heated and I wish I’d taken my cozzie, but instead than a dip, Danica and I happily lingered in the hanging chairs on our deck, a crisp G&T in hand, taking the moment to appreciate the immense natural beauty of the location.
Tintswalo Atlantic
Widely known as Cape Town’s hidden gem, Tintswalo Atlantic is a 5 star,
award-winning boutique lodge nestled at the base of the ocean-facing Table Mountain National Park. Sitting at the foot of Chapman’s Peak, the lodge is perched upon a pebbled beach and enjoys panoramic views of the picturesque Hout Bay harbour, the dramatic Sentinel mountain peak, and the Atlantic Ocean beyond.
Renowned as one of Cape Town’s ‘best-kept secrets’, thanks to its exclusive oceanside location, Tintswalo Atlantic is the ideal destination for a romantic getaway or to celebrate a special occasion. Each of the ten island suites has their own fireplace, as well as a balcony or terrace on the water’s edge, and is tucked up in nature – inviting guests to simply lean back and breathe in the fresh sea air to the sound of the crashing waves below. Which is what we did in our Cousine Suite.
The food at Tintswalo Atlantic reveals a simple yet relaxed fine dining style. All dishes are personally crafted in the open kitchen from hand-selected ingredients, are incredibly tasty and beautifully presented, with special dietary requests such as my want for vegetarian food, very well accommodated. Dinner was served from a set menu that offered a wide selection of dishes per course. There is even a Vegetarian and Vegan Tasting Menu should this be your preference.
Breakfast is served to your table on the deck and not from a buffet as is found in most accommodations. We were offered the choice of muesli and fruit, cheese and charcuterie platters, pastries and freshly baked bread, followed by a generous selection from the cooked menu. We did very well eating our way through the generous spread offered. Afterall, luxury living on the coast can be hungry work.
Location and Things to Do
Tintswalo Atlantic is located in Cape Town just two kilometers from Hout Bay on Chapman’s Peak drive, approximately 45 minutes from Cape Town International Airport and 25 minutes from the city of Cape Town. Guests driving themselves to Tintswalo Atlantic leave their car in a secure parking area at the top of the cliff and are transferred to the hotel in the Tintswalo Atlantic courtesy vehicle.
As for things to do, there are attractions that can be found in Hout Bay and in the greater Cape Town. For those wishing to remain close to the hotel, the surrounding mountain reserve has a multitude of paths and walkways for visitors to enjoy, and guests may also wander along the pebbled beach located outside the lodge. This is a particularly good spot to explore at sunset and sunrise to catch the reflections in the many tidal pools.
Of course, for those seeking some well-deserved downtime, Tintswalo Atlantic’s heated pool and poolside service make for a perfect afternoon of leisure. Even in Winter, don’t miss the opportunity to slip into the warm water. Ideal on Wintery cooler days when you can bring a book into the lodge lounge and while away the hours in front of a crackling fireplace. Or better still, on the deck of your island suite.
A few of their suggested excursions that can be arranged include a visit the busy working harbour of Hout Bay. During the week one can watch fishing trawlers and crayfish boats unload their catches while enjoying traditional fresh fish and chips. Take a boat trip to Seal Island, a tiny island behind the Sentinel, which is densely populated by some 6000 seals. There is even the option of snorkelling with the curious seals that are found here, an incredible experience.
Explore Table Mountain National Park on foot, there are numerous walks and hiking trails. Spend the day in the nearby Constantia Winelands, the birthplace to the wine farming industry in Cape Town. Visit the V&A Waterfront or one of the other renowned shopping districts. Take a Cape Peninsular day excursion. A big attraction in Hout Bay is the World of Birds. This is the largest bird park in Africa and one of the few large bird parks in the world with over 3000 birds and small animals of 400 different species presented. Sea kayaking and seasonal Whale watching can be arranged too.
More About The Exquisite Tintswalo Lodges
Tintswalo Lodges is a collection of three family-owned and run properties in South Africa. Perched on a pebbled beach at the foot of the Table Mountain National Park, directly overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the award-winning Tintswalo Atlantic boutique lodge is renowned as one of Cape Town’s most precious hidden gems. Sharing an unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park, Tintswalo Safari Lodge sits on the pristine Manyeleti Private Game Reserve, home to some of South Africa’s best game viewing. Within this property, Tintswalo Manor House offers a luxurious, fully-catered villa for families or friends looking for a tailor-made stay. Tintswalo will be expanding its offering in 2018 with the launch of Tintswalo at Boulders Manor in Cape Town, and Tintswalo at Lapalala Wilderness in the Waterberg region of Limpopo province.
Don’t Miss The Incredible Winter Special
Tintswalo Atlantic has introduced a special ‘Winter Warmer’ package for SA Residents, complete with all-enveloping comforts and gourmet cuisine at R7060 per night for two people sharing. Valid from now until 31 August 2018, the Winter Warmer includes luxury accommodation in one of the 10 ocean-facing king suites, as well as a light lunch on arrival with a welcome bottle of wine, and a delicious full breakfast the next morning. Airport and/or Waterfront transfers are also included. Do note that over weekends a minimum two-night stay applies.
The Essential Details
For more details visit Tintswalo Atlantic. For accommodation reservations contact Lizaan res1@tintswalo.com or Carol res2@tintswalo.com, telephone +27 11 300 8888. Do take a look at their incredible winter special which is valid until the end of August and be in touch to book a breakfast, lunch, sundowner canapés or dinner.
It is hard to imagine a more romantic and unique beach-front setting for a wedding, so do bear this in mind if organising an intimate celebratory occasion. The Tintswalo Atlantic team can assist with every moment of your event, whether its specialty catering or simply ensuring that your function runs smoothly, they thrive on make dreams come true.
With special thanks to Five Star PR and Janie Van Der Spuy for the opportunity, to Danica Helfrich for joining me, and to all who looked after me and ensured a perfect, relaxed stay at this serene and soulful retreat.
It was a very hard place to leave, which I didn’t do before throwing a Tintswalo Atlantic wishing stone over my right shoulder and back into the ocean. My wish you may ask? That I shall one day soon return for more.
2 Responses
It sounds like the quintessential luxury must have. Those pictures alone make me want to book a flight. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks so much dear Carmen, hope you get there one day. You’ll love it x.