The Alphen’s exterior – a lovely 17th century Cape Dutch homestead and National Monument – belies its up to date interior styling. This hotel stands out for me for the stark juxtaposition of the old and the new in both its public spaces and its rooms. “ A little eccentric, some what Bohemian, rather ecletic and casually elegant” is what the hotel says and I think that’s a good summation of the Alphen Hotel.
It lies in the beautiful Constantia valley of Cape Town, Â by 11 acres of gardens with a pool, water features and centuries old oak trees. Overlooking the gardens is the Rose Bar, a vibey outdoor garden bar perfect for summer evening cocktails and drinks.
The Five Rooms restaurant is in the original Manor House at the Alphen Hotel . As you would imagine, the restaurant comprises a series of five rooms with dark rich colours, winter log fires, dramatic décor, antiques & paintings adorning the walls. However this traditional setting is nicely off set by the stylish modern bar and the terrace outside for summer dining. It was a bit too cold for evening dining when I was there in June.
The Alphen Hotel offers a range of rooms and suites ranging from Cool Suites, to Amazing Suites to Stunning Suites. All suites are very different in shape and décor but all share the same fresh, colourful décor of broadly white with splashes of blue, red or purple – no subdued soft neutral tones here if that’s what you are after!
All in all, a great new addition to the slightly sleepy Constantia valley which is being enthusiatically supported by the locals so that the restaurants and bars are always full of life even on a cold winter’s evening. Recommended!
