This is the oldest hotel in the city, but don't worry, it's got modern upgrades!
The hotel is located right at Greenmarket Square, which is an excellent location for walking to the sites. The museums and Company Gardens are about a 5 minute walk, Bo Kaap is about 10 minutes, Long Street is a block away, etc. A cab que is right out front, and a ride to the Waterfront is 50 Rand (off meter price, on meter it ranges from 35-55).
The hotel is on Longmarket St., which is narrow with little traffic. I stayed here twice (before and after my safari). The first time had a room in the front with a view of the street and the Square. While the view was nice, it was a bit noisy as I could hear the music from the bar around the corner (I was in this room on a Fri/Sat nights). The second time I had a room in the back, which was just as nice, and much quieter (but I wasn't there on the weekend). Each room is slightly different in terms of size and layout, but the desk will try to put you in the largest one of your requested size. The beds were comfortable, the pillows decently soft, and each room had a coffee pot, TV, small table or desk, wardrobe, shower/tub, clean modern bathroom. All rooms have heat (and you can order a portable heater from the desk) and some have a/c.
Free breakfast was included in the room price and was served in the adjoining Tudor Cafe. This comprised a cold breakfast bar of breads, cereal, fruit, meats, etc. as well as a hot option of eggs, bacon/sausage, and toast. You can watch the merchants set up their stands in the Square while you eat. Service was from 7:00-11:00.
The people at the front desk were very friendly and helpful. They will arrange tours and transfers for you and answer any questions you have. They also have safe boxes at reception as well as an internet terminal (the hotel has a wireless connection as well) although the service was spotty - typical of Africa. To enter the lobby you have to be buzzed in by the front desk, and they ask you to turn in your room key when you are out (for theft prevention). They also have the daily paper in the lobby.
This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Would I recommend this hotel to my best friend?
absolutely!
I recommend this hotel for:
Girlfriend getaway, Older travelers, Families with young children, Families with teenagers, Tourists
I do not recommend this hotel for:
Young singles, An amazing honeymoon, A romantic getaway, Great pool scene, Pet owners
I selected this hotel as a top choice for:
Museums / Cultural / Historical sites, Other