When Cape Grace received the Conde Nast award for best hotel in the world in 2000 it took everyone by surprise. It was virtually unheard of for a four-year-old hotel to win such a prestigious accolade.

But instead of patting themselves on the back and keeping it at that, it inspired them to take their reputation of excellence to new heights. And they have been at it ever since.

This intimate hotel - with its air of contemporary comfort mixed with old world indulgence - prides itself on its personalised service. Cape Grace (located at the V&A Waterfront) is built on its own quay with water on three sides.

Its 122 luxury rooms enjoy panoramic views of Table Mountain, the international yacht marina, the cityscape and Cape Town's harbour.

There is a reason dignitaries like Bill Clinton and Kofi Annan love to stay at the hotel. The service at Cape Gracel is warm, sincere and personalised with a generous helping of genuine TLC.

The hotel's personnel know that their guests don't just want expensive bed linen, but an experience that will live on in their memories. And they aim to provide just that.

All staff members know Cape Town and surrounds like the back of their hands. If you want to find that intimate little Italian restaurant, the staff at Cape Grace will know where it is.

The hotel also offers a cosmic array of complimentary services. Are you an exercise addict? Why not ask Cape Grace to install gym equipment and a yoga mat in your room? Or visit your nearest Virgin Active or Body Excel and the hotel will foot the bill.

Do you have children? They willl receive a goodie-box (tailor-made according to age) filled with presents and activities. Children also receive a glass of milk and a gingerbread man on turndown every evening.

Addicted to your morning run? The hotel will provide you with a portable jogger's map. Hang this handy little map around your neck and explore Cape Town on foot.

Honeymooners also get special treatment at Cape Grace. They receive a romantic gift every night of their stay.

Other complimentary services include: A range of carefully selected books placed in your room; fresh flowers, milk, lemons, a newspaper and a cup of coffee/tea delivered to your room every morning; a 7 series BMW chauffeured service for guests (within a 10 km radius of the hotel); a history and wine appreciation hour in the library every evening; Cafe Complet (coffee and pastries in the library every morning) and port or sherry in the evenings.

The personalised attention, sincere hospitality and extensive array of complimentary services, make a stay at Cape Grace a unique experience. Upon leaving the hotel, you might be surprised to fight back a hint of melancholy - a feeling akin to parting with an old friend.


Molo says: "Also read our articles on the The Spa at the Cape Grace and the award-winning onewaterfront restaurant. You can also find information on special family accommodation and honeymoon treats at the Cape Grace on CapeTownMagazine.com. Or explore other five-star hotels in and around Cape Town.

"Subscribe to our newsletter for more information on Cape Town's hotels, activities and events; or explore Cape Grace via satellite by downloading our Google Earth map of Cape Town".