Extraordinary Africa>South Africa>Cape Town>Gorgeous George
You know you’re staying somewhere unusual when reception answers the phone with “Hello Gorgeous”. Gorgeous George wins our prize for a stylish, quirky and seriously fun option in downtown Cape Town.
What’s Gorgeous George really like?
Gorgeous George is the epitome of funky modern Cape Town– you’re not insulated from the city here, you’re very much part of it. George sits in an old bank on a pedestrianised street in the heart of town, but despite this distinguished heritage, the décor reflects all of the flair and fun of modern South Africa. The 32 moodily lit rooms have a contemporary industrial style, with all of the little extras that make a stay special- bluetooth speakers, rain showers, scrumptious bathroom products, and (for the coffee lovers in the EA office) a cafetière for your morning brew. You’re very centrally located in Cape Town so noise did have potential to be a problem here, but a talented, if rather enthusiastic, busker has spurred Gorgeous George into action and an extra layer of glazing on the windows has been installed.
Studio rooms do vary in size (such are the delights of converting an old building), but we thought they were fine for a city hotel provided you weren’t expecting acres of space. The suites are a bit larger, with a sitting area and one of the largest showers we’ve seen in a long time. One bit of insider intel from us- if you, like us, love a good wallow in the tub- baths are normally in the room with you, so it’s best if you know (or want to get to know) your travelling companion well.
Up on the roof, inside flows effortlessly outside, where a bustling bar opens out onto the fresh and airy dining terrace. Beyond is a small deck reserved for hotel guests where there’s a dipping pool and a view out over the square. Your reviewer was very impressed by the extensive breakfast menu (that’s before she even looked at the cocktails) and while the hotel does also offer evening meals, there are such a huge number of excellent restaurants in Cape Town, it’d be hard not to be tempted out and about.
In all we’d say this is a fantastic option for anyone who’s young at heart and wants a stylish, fun stay in buzzing central Cape Town.
What can I do at Gorgeous George?
As with any hotel in Cape Town, a stay at Gorgeous George is all about exploring the Mother City rather than remaining holed up in your hotel. As you have such a central location, it’s not ideal for those travelling with a hire car, but the hotel can easily arrange taxis for you and there’s a lot that you can see nearby on foot. If you want to remain locally, guests can use the spa at the next-door Taj, and the facilities of a nearby gym. A wander around Greenmarket Square is always a colourful experience, and the craft market here is a great place to pick up some treasures to take home- be prepared to negotiate though! To experience the city as locals do, the hotel’s “Good Times Guide” is bursting with recommendations for bars, restaurants and hang-out spots.
Want to know more? We’ve been here so just
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