Palm House Boutique Hotel and Spa in Cape Town has relaunched under the new ownership of Max Jong and Shelagh Wood, who became custodians of this historic property in mid-2023. Located close to the forested slopes of Table Mountain, and just minutes from the vineyards of Constantia, Palm House has undergone renovations following the recent change in ownership.
The refurbishment retained key elements of the original house, including the wood-paneling around the lobby fireplace, the hand-crafted staircase and first-floor landing. The project also introduced new herringbone floors that echoed the originals, chandeliers, bespoke wallpapers and hand-picked artworks.
The hotel offers a range of guestrooms and suites, which are set both within the main house and within the Palm House gardens. The collection of Garden Suites is available in one- to three-bedroom configurations. Each suite has a private lounge and sitting area, while private patios step directly onto the lawns that lead to the pool terrace. The Deluxe King Suite offers a spacious lounge and private terrace overlooking the hotel gardens.
Open to both local diners and resident guests, the hotel offers a culinary experience in two parts: casual all-day dining at the Palm Terrace and creative culinary fare in the dinner-only de Tafel room. Guests can also enjoy a selection of small plates at the Palm Terrace. Afternoon Tea at the Palm Terrace has also recently been introduced and is served daily between 2 and 5 p.m.
At de Tafel, guests can savor four- and six-course set menus, including a plant-based menu. Additionally, the bar and lounge offers a range of cocktails. The hotel’s wine collection highlights boutique Cape estates, and the in-house sommelier will guide guests through wine pairings over dinner or tutored tastings during the day.
The hotel’s Açaí Spa is just a few steps from the main house. The spa menu includes a comprehensive selection of hand, foot, facial and body treatments. These include the signature Palm Journey, a full-day wellness experience inclusive of lunch at the Palm Terrace. In addition to three single treatment rooms, outdoor jacuzzi and mani-pedi studio, the spa recently expanded to include a couples’ treatment room. Additionally, a highlight for many in-house guests and day-visitors to Açaí is the Banya Sauna. Set in a courtyard, this traditional barrel-shaped sauna of Nordic pine is ideal for relaxing before a treatment or winding down after a busy day exploring the Cape or battling business.
Good to know: The hotel’s staff is on hand to curate every aspect of guest stays, from securing restaurant reservations to arranging executive transfers, and more.
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