Executive Getaways
Ambassador Hotel
Now, I may be biased, but you’d be hard pressed to find a more beautiful city in the world. Cape Town and particularly the Atlantic coastline, boast some of the world’s loveliest skies, seas and surf. A popular destination for locals and international travellers, the area also hosts many sought after hotels and guest houses, but none as spectacular and grand as the Ambassador Hotel and Executive Suites in Bantry Bay.
Built in a sought after area, perched high on the rocks overlooking a magnificent ocean, and on the slopes of the famous Lions Head on the Table Mountain range, what more could you possibly ask for in terms of a winning and relaxing view?
Well, if like me, you’re a particularly discerning (some may say finicky) traveller, and spectacular views can be grossly overshadowed by lousy service, and 3-star accommodation in a 5-star hotel, then this hotels definitely will not disappoint.
From the moment you enter the hotel, the staff are pleasant and inviting. The décor is modern, and very reflective of the architecture of the area. From every possible vantage point in the hotel, the wide expanse of the ocean feels like a touch away, and the fact that the swimming pool is mere meters away from the mountain rocks, gives you the impression that you’re truly living life la dolce vita.
Once you’re ushered to your room, the experience is already just breathtaking. The views, the simple luxury of the ‘little’ things like attention to detail, and the sheer opulence of the bed linen and the pure creature comforts of hotel living draws you in and promises to only leave you long after your stay.
Then when you join other guest in the dining area of the Salt restaurant, the experience comes full circle as practically anything you pick off the menu is bound to serve up something particularly unique to Cape Town dining.
Overall, the hotel ranks very highly. The location, view, ambience of the rooms, and communal areas, are simply delightful. In addition the Ambassador also offers contemporary 1 and 2 bedroomed fully-equipped and fully-serviced Executive Suites, that are perfect for traveling families, long stays and self-catering holidays or for those re-locating to South Africa.
Full hotel services are available for guests booking the Executive Suites. All suites have fully-fitted kitchens and are equipped with the necessary utensils for a ‘home away from home’ stay. For in-room entertainment, each suite is fitted with a DVD player and a full library of DVD’s are available.
Some facilities available: outdoor swimming pool, secure parking and valet services, complimentary daily shuttle services to and from V&A waterfront, same day laundry and dry cleaning services, 24-hour room service, satellite service in rooms, Complimentary wireless internet access, travel consultancy, secretarial services, fleet of luxury sedans for airport and city and restaurant transfers, conferencing facilities, and executive suites shopping services.
Recreational options nearby: tennis courts, golf, gym & squash facilities, hair & nail salon, hiking, and yatching/boating/surfing.
Contact:
Toll free reservations: 0800 604 604
Salt Restaurant & Bar: Email: salt@ambassador.co.za
Website: www.ambassador..co.za
Overall Star Rating: 5
Salt Restaurant Rating: 5 – simple, easy-dining atmosphere, complemented by an extensive wine list of 70 wines, all available by the glass.
Budmarsh
The frenetic pace of city life can often drive one just a little insane, so the promise of some peace and quiet of the Magaliesberg is often very tempting for those of us in much need of trees and slow flowing rivers. While the drive into the Magaliesberg area is not that welcoming for someone accustomed to the ease and beauty of Cape travelling, the end of the journey proves remarkably tranquil.
Budmarsh, the instant you past the cows grazing on the field directly before the entrance, immediately promises to seduce you with the quiet ambience you’d expect from any countryside lodge or guest house that boasts its own slow flowing river ramble. An usher waits on you from the moment you exist your car, to the minute you close your room door. Styled in modern countryside décor, with large windows and plush sofa’s in the lounge area, the lodge also richly displays coffee table books for every taste, from political biographies to the sweet tastes and vibrant life of authentic Soweto culture and food.
But before you experience that part of your stay, a waiter serves you with a hot hand towel on entry, a complimentary drink and as little checking-in hassles as possible.
The views from the main lounge area are exquisite – landscaped gardens, enchanting trees, magnificent scenery and sweeping views of the Magaliesberg Mountains.
And the rooms are absolutely indulgent. Soft white linen, antique furniture, and an en suite bathroom to hibernate in.
The entire experience at Budmarsh is aimed at relaxing your soul, and giving back that which a hectic city life ultimately takes from you.
Rooms: Each room has underfloor heating, heated towel racks, is individually designed and decorated,and offers guests fireplaces to outdoor showers and jacuzzzi’s.
Special Moments: Private outdoor massage therapy sessions
Some facilities available: outdoor swimming pool, conference facilities, library, bar area, wine cellar, lounge area with great fireplace. It’s also known quite popular as a wedding venue.
Recreational options nearby: Horse riding, game drives, micro lighting, hot air ballooning, (all on request), swimming, hikes, bird watching, mountain biking, picnics and billiards.
Contact:
Reservations: +27 11 728 1800
Email: info@budmarsh.co.za
Website: www.budmarsh.co.za
Overall Star Rating: 4
Restaurant Rating: 5 – The Master chef, a member of the
Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, serves a delectable 5-course sit down meal.
