History
One&Only Resorts was launched in 2002 by South African business magnate Sol Kerzner. The Cape Town property is one of seven One&Only luxury resorts worldwide, with the remaining properties in the Bahamas, Mauritius, Maldives, Mexico and Dubai (two).
What’s it Like?
First impressions are lasting and what you get walking through the front door is one of the more spectacular views of Table Mountain you’ll ever see. The lobby and adjoining Vista Bar and Lounge area are ‘backlit’ by an enormous glass window that looks onto said mountain. A fantastic bit of design, as it’s the first thing you see, making an immediate and impressive statement and setting the tone for your stay.
Where is it?
On Dock Road, which is the road leading to the V&A Waterfront, from the city. The Waterfront itself is a central location, just a few minutes’ drive from the CBD, about 25 minutes’ drive from Cape Town International Airport, and just a few minutes’ walk from the Waterfront’s bars and restaurants. Taxis are available and the hotel also offers both a car and helicopter transfer service to the airport. Nuff said…
Room Facilities
We were accommodated on the fourth of seven floors, in one of the 91 Marina Rise rooms, which are decked out in a contemporary African design. There are also 40 Island rooms, and Penthouse, Presidential and Table Mountain suites. For the Marina Rise rooms, the design of the hotel is such that you walk out of your room, onto your private balcony and take in a full, uninterrupted view of Table Mountain. The view (which also includes one of the harbour) and the opulent bathroom were the standout features for me, although the luxurious king-size bed was not too shabby, either. Along with that was the decent size of the room, comfortable lounge furniture, iPod docking station, 42-inch flat-screen TV, Nespresso coffee machine, DVD/CD player, pillow and scent menus, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet, and nice touches in the form of a large fruit basket and complimentary bottle of wine. But, it’s the enormous bathroom that catches the eye, featuring an oversized bath, separate rain shower, plenty of space and cupboards, and expensive-looking toiletries.
Restaurants & Bars
You can either go for high-end Japanese cuisine at Nobu, with the sushi and tempura highly recommended, or try out Reubens, which is headed up by local celebrity chef, Reuben Riffel, and offers a wide range of ‘bistro fare’ food. Both restaurants are connected to the Vista Bar and Lounge, where a night cap gazing up at the mountain is the local tip. During the day, the Isola restaurant offers a combination of ‘island’ and Italian food out by the pool.
Business & Meeting Facilities
The Ballroom measures 215m², with 63m² of outdoor space, and can easily accommodate 120 guests for a sit-down dinner or 200 for cocktails. Adjacent to the Ballroom is the Marina Room, accommodating 20 guests boardroom style, or 40 guests cinema style. There’s also a second boardroom that can seat 12 guests. The Isola restaurant and the island pool terrace are available for outdoor events in the evenings and can accommodate 80 guests. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort, along with all the necessary AV equipment and conference material.
Leisure Facilities
The award-winning spa is situated on its own waterside island and plays host to some 12 treatment rooms, whilst also featuring steam and sauna facilities, ‘experience showers’, and vitality pools – a decadent experience and also highly recommended. There’s also a state-of-the-art fitness centre and designer boutique, next to the lobby area.
Verdict
I was impressed by the intimate service, high quality finishings, beautiful setting, delicious food and luxury accommodation. A 5-star experience.
Contact
Address: Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, +27 21 431 5888, oneandonlyresorts.com
Dylan Rogers