I can’t figure out what these bow-shaped, green metal poles are for in the garden of the 12 Apostles Hotel. I know they do something, but I have no idea what! It’s only when I sneak off to find the beautiful wedding reception garden that I realise they are hammock poles! The damp weather has stopped the hammock being hung in our hotel garden, but we can imagine a gentle sway, among the proteas, Kindle in hand while watching the ocean vacillate against the shoreline; can’t imagine a better day of relaxation.
One of the few hotels in Cape Town that is entirely cradled by the glory of nature, the hotel is named after the dozen outcrops of Table Mountain’s western peeks. Clouds pour over the cliff edge as sunbirds flitter past, landing and taking off from the various Cape proteas, while wild cats and hikers quietly stalk the mountainside beyond. On a bright, sunny day the hotel shines like a gem in a crown of natural flora and fauna.
Mountain Edge Sea Facing Rooms
Our room is located right on the corner of the hotel. A little skip allows us to cross into the garden and stroll along the well-maintained mountain pathways that loop around the hotel and past the spa.
A comfortable king-size bed ensures two large adults can have a proper night’s rest, while the desk are and high speed wifi allow guests to work remotely – a growing requirement since the pandemic. The split level room allows each portion to have a sense of separateness while still being together.
Unfortunately, Cape Town’s weather has been a slow delivery this spring, with light showers passing through the city. Even so, we’ve loved shooting timelapses over the cloudy mountainside and rainbow edged ocean. The hotel room’s shuttered blinds and sliding doors create an “inside-outside” feel, keeping us cosy while bringing nature indoors no matter the weather.
Spring Nights at the Twelve Apostles
Thankfully the hotel’s signature restaurant, Azure, is prepared for any weather eventuality and dining inside is just as cosy and pleasant as when the sun is shining and the doors are wide open. Selecting a window facing table in the corner, we watch the light fade over the vast Atlantic Ocean as the mountainsides shift into silhouette form.
The 3 most delicious plates of the evening included the citrus & herb cured sustainable fish with dill slaw and sour cream. The springbok loin with parsnip puree and toasted peanuts, which was cooked to perfection (nice seal, medium rare) and the beef fillet – a classic crowd-pleaser.
Blue Breakfasts at Azure
The breakfast spread is one of the most mindful I’ve seen since the pandemic. Most portions are presented in individual portions or glass jars, ensuring the hygiene and safety of patrons. We have a small bowl of fruit followed by eggs benedict, an oldie but a goodie! A glass of bubbly is available, but being a week day I sadly decline.
Guests make their way out to the deck in order to take in the mix of vibrant colours across the ocean. The light coming and going as the fresh sea air renews the day.
Featuring the 12 Apostles Wedding Venue
If you’re curious about potentially hosting your wedding at the hotel, take a peek at our video where we share a bit more about the 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa as a wedding venue:
Final Impression
Part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, the Twelve Apostles is one of the original, luxury hotels in the Mother City and continues to attract established travellers from around the world looking to slow their pace, relax with ease and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the world.
If guests are travelling with kids, the world famous Camps Bay beach is less than 3 miles away and easily accessed. For those looking to paddle a little closer to the hotel, Oudekraal Beach is in walking distance and provides shallow, rock pools for children or even those looking to SUP with ease.
Having visited on a number of occasion for their high teas (normal and vegan), the hotel is wonderful for special occassions due to the refined service and high quality food. While day visitors often visit the venue for the 12 Apostles High Tea or spa, areas such as the pool and cinema are exclusively available to guests only.
The Spa has recently been renovated (2021) as well as the helipad restored. A brand new restaurant and grill is also being added to the hotel and will be opening its doors in early 2022.
We also noted a discrete yet thorough security infrastructure at the hotel which includes external cameras on the hotel itself and surrounds. There is also night reception should medical attention be required (AJ often has allergic reactions when we travel so we like to be clear about the support on the ground).
Before leaving the hotel, be sure to explore their gift shop and mini art gallery in the hotel foyer. Capturing some of the most exquisite sunsets in the Mother City, the art encapsulates the best of the hotel in an easy viewing.
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