The Taj Cape Town has a way of drawing one in, spoiling you to bits and then inspiring you to go out and explore. Its impressive façade is one that tells many a story of the Mother City, with the 5-star hotel occupying a building that used to be the South African Reserve Bank. I’ve stayed at this property – which forms part of IHCL’s Taj Hotels – before, but following recent refurbishments of its rooms and suites, I couldn’t resist revisiting.
Entering my mountain-facing room on the 12th floor, the views of Table Mountain immediately drew me to the window. It was late afternoon and the unique beauty of the inner city of Cape Town had me in awe. Just across the street, St. George’s Cathedral – built from Table Mountain sandstone – stood proud and to my right, I could see Lion’s Head. Having lived in Gardens for 6 months in 2010, memories of picnics on Signal Hill, a bicycle tour through the Bo-Kaap and much more ran through my mind and instantly, I felt at home.
FIND MORE TRAVEL, FOOD AND WINE STORIES HERE
Taj Cape Town has breathed some new life into their suites and rooms, with fynbos serving as the overarching inspiration for the project. From a beautiful carpet with fynbos detail to wallpaper with floral elements that frame the bed, they’ve added some beautifully curated touches that make for an immersive Cape Town experience, even from inside the hotel.
Hues of beige and blush, as well as hints of blue echo the colours of Table Mountain, Cape fynbos and perhaps even a glass of red wine and elegant, classic décor items with gold accents add sophistication and class to the luxurious rooms.
The bathrooms have remained largely unchanged since my last visit, with white robes, soft towels and thoughtful amenities still adding to the grand experiences to be had at Taj Cape Town.
Beyond the comfort of the room, The J Wellness Centre – located on the second floor – lured me into relaxation mode from the get-go. Known for their ancient Indian healing rituals that invite transformative journeys, they use only natural products for their treatments, including organic cotton, oven-baked pottery and natural herbs and oils. Following an hour of Indian Aroma Therapy, I felt calm, rejuvenated and incredibly grateful.
Dinner at Bombay Brasserie feels almost non-negotiable when you’re staying at Taj Cape Town, with the Indian restaurant having become a bit of an institution within the hotel’s walls. Here, you can indulge in the flavours of India, but with an African flair. The butter chicken with naan was simply divine and the perfect end to an evening at the inner city hotel.
What followed was a wonderful night’s rest in the comfiest bed and the next morning, Cape Town – its buildings glistening at daybreak – called me out to explore some more!
READ MORE ABOUT THE TOYOTA HILUX LEGEND 55 WHICH I EXPLORED CAPE TOWN AND SURROUNDS WITH HERE
Newly Refurbished Cape Town Suites Is Just The Start for Taj Hotels
In the bigger scheme of things, Taj Cape Town‘s room refurbishments are merely the start of some truly impressive expansions for Taj Hotels. The brand is set for a significant expansion in sub-Saharan Africa, having recently acquired three bush lodges in the Greater Kruger National Park. The Taj Lion Kings Bush Lodge is currently undergoing renovations and together with the Taj Lion Kings River Lodge, it’s scheduled to open during the first quarters of 2026. The Taj Lion Kings Hilltop Tented Camp is due to open later in 2026 and guests can also look forward to the launch of several additional new properties in 2027. The brand has earmarked areas which have long been thought of as the ultimate safari destinations and they’re excited to also have a presence in Kenya’s Maasai Mara and the Serengeti in Tanzania, as well as in Botswana and Zambia.
Mark Wernich, the Cluster General Manager Africa and Business Development Africa for sub-Saharan Africa for the Taj brand says: “Here in sub-Saharan Africa, Taj Hotels has kept pace of the group’s growth through its own noteworthy acquisitions.” For him, it’s an honour to be part of such an exciting brand evolution which will see Taj Hotels cater to tourists’ every taste across the globe – whether they’re looking for a sophisticated experience, unforgettable moments in the African bush or laidback beach resort holidays.
If you are familiar with Taj Hotels, you will know what to expect: exquisite décor, outstanding food and exceptional comfort adding to bold luxury, all underscored by their signature authentic hospitality and immaculate service, and this time, with a safari twist!
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