Crowning the elevator section of a massive grain silo built on the Cape Town waterfront in 1924, this small, five star design hotel thoroughly deserves the numerous awards and accolades it has received since opening in 2017. Brilliantly transformed by British architect Thomas Heatherwick, the brutally functional building retains many industrial features that are paired with vivacious and eclectic interiors by owner Liz Biden. This is the most striking of four South African properties in the family-run Royal Portfolio collection and a must for lovers of contemporary African art with over 200 works on display. Add in a super-central location, a buzzing restaurant and cocktail bar, huge and romantic bedrooms and a rooftop pool, and you have a unique and exciting hotel where good memories are guaranteed.
The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, opened in 2017, is part of the same grain silo complex and a must-visit both for its stimulating galleries and to admire how this towering industrial building has been ingeniously transformed into a striking, multi-level exhibition space.
Located on the V&A waterfront, a short walk away you'll find the Nelson Mandela Gateway, the departure point for boat trips.
By plane: direct flights from London Heathrow to Cape Town take 12 hours. The hotel is a 20-minute drive from the airport. Free parking available. skyscanner.net
Fans of design hotels, spa-lovers and honeymooners will love this hotel. Most guests stay a couple of nights and there are four two-bedroom duplex suites that can accommodate families. Every room at The Silo has a lofty balcony, perfect for watching city and harbour life go by with a glass of fine South African wine in hand.
We loved the theatricality - a night here is a boldly-curated performance that showcases the fun and creative energy of South Africa's 'Mother City'.
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Terrace
- Fitness centre
- Spa
- Swimming pool
- Free parking
- Free Wi-Fi
Rooms have either a harbour or mountain view - the former overlook the bustling waterfront and catch the sunset. In-room notes explain about the exceptional African art you are spending the night with. A free guide to the many works displayed in the hotel's public spaces is also available.
Silo Room, Duplex Suite, Deluxe Superior Suite, Family Suite, Royal Suite, The Penthouse
Facilities include: ensuite bathroom with toiletries, bathrobes and slippers, coffee machine, free mini bar, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi
Breakfast is an elaborate three-tier stand loaded with delights including pastries, smoked salmon and passionfruit. We loved the Cape Malay cauliflower with sultanas and capers followed by springbok loin with poached pear and a port reduction, plus a glass of silky shiraz from nearby Stellenbosch.
The Granary Café: relaxed bar and dining room with a view. Contemporary cuisine, light bites and large plates. All-day menu, open daily.
The Silo Rooftop: rooftop bar and terrace. Serving poke bowls, salads and sharing platters. Open daily, from 12pm.
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