Background
One of the many City Lodge establishments within the group, this hotel is situated in the English-type suburb of Pinelands and offers a quiet and peaceful alternative from Cape Town city centre.
What’s it Like?
Pinelands City Lodge appears to have been built with the business traveller in mind, with a clean, welcoming environment and friendly staff. Lush gardens surround the hotel and the bay windows are a feature, but generally, the emphasis is on economy and functionality rather than that of indulgence, with a pleasant atmosphere throughout. Not too many frills – just good value.
Where is it?
In the relatively quiet suburb of Pinelands, centrally located just 10 minutes drive from both the central business district and Cape Town International Airport. It is also right next door to the Mowbray Golf Course and some of the rooms enjoy a view of the course, perhaps enticing those business travellers who enjoy golf as a means of relaxing away from the office. There is also a shopping mall in the immediate area, as well as a variety of restaurants.
Room Facilities
There are 133 rooms in the hotel, again favouring practicality over indulgence. The rooms are not ultra modern, but do have a homely feel, with provisions for coffee/tea, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi in every room, along with both a shower and bath. There is no mini bar in the standard rooms and even though the room I stayed in was relatively small, it was definitely comfortable. There is a television (not flat-screen) in every room and all SABC channels are offered, along with multiple DStv (satellite television) and music channels. The hotel also offers same-day laundry service.
Restaurants & Bars
The hotel offers a fresh buffet breakfast, but not lunch or dinner. Contact details for almost all the restaurants in the area are available at the front desk and cutlery is provided by the hotel if food is brought into the eating area. There is, however, a coffee shop inside the hotel that offers light meals and beverages, and is open from 12h00 until 22h00. There is also a vending and ice machine on the premises for those emergency late-night snacks and drinks.
Meeting & Business Facilities
There is a boardroom at the hotel that seats a maximum of 12 people. The room is small, but boasts all the equipment needed to facilitate a successful conference, including flat-screen television, Wi-Fi and telephonic-communication devices. Snacks and sandwiches can also be arranged at the front desk.
Leisure & Fitness
There is a cosy fitness centre (or ‘mini gym’ as they call it) for those wanting to keep up with their fitness regime. Though not huge, it is equipped with everything needed to provide a solid workout, both cardio-vascular and weight training. There is also a swimming pool and deck chairs for some fun and relaxation in the sun, or to relax after a round of golf or stressful day at the office.
Verdict
This is not a five-star establishment, but definitely one that covers all the basics, particularly for the business traveller on the move. Friendly, helpful staff and a great location with easy access to the CBD and airport, go well with the sense of homely comfort. The hotel may not be the most lavish, but it is more than functional, clean and adequate for a quick business stay.
Fact File
Address: Mowbray Golf Park, Off Raapenberg Road, Pinelands, Cape Town
Contact: +27 (0) 21-6857944, citylodge.co.za/cl8.php
Tarique Holland