1. This boutique hotel is on Park Road in the uber-trendy suburb of Gardens … a prime location which offers, for the business traveller, a quick commute to the business centre, while those on a break can indulge in the nearby retail therapy, popular cafés and eateries on Kloof and Long Streets and cultural hubs such as museums and art galleries. It’s close to iconic attractions, like the photogenic BoKaap area, and is just a short trip to the base of Table Mountain … the 24-hour reception desk can arrange these, and more, sightseeing excursions. Fancy a trip out to the lush Elgin Valley for a breathtaking canopy tour, where you’ll glide through scenic forested valleys and take in dramatic mountain views? No prob … it’ll be arranged.

2. Rise and dine … we’re obsessed with the Hippo’s ‘your choice’ breakfast concept. You’re given vouchers, and each morning, you’re invited to head off to one of the specially selected eateries nearby. So if you’re all hearty bacon and eggs and all the trimmings, you could choose Therapy, or head to the quirky, retro Egghead Diner for their famous Egg Head Roll, a wholesome granola, or the (blissful, trust us) indulgent Brioche French Toast. Tashas fans (all of us, surely) can breakfast at Cafe Sofi by Tashas – a glamorous and eccentric dining space offering a premium and imaginative take on breakfast … like Eggs and Soldiers with smoked salmon and crème fraîche, or a healthy Avocado on Toast. If you’re there for a few days, you can alternate eateries … such a brilliant idea.

3. Since we’re all about local this month, we also love the initiative started by the GM Matt Deitchman, to feature works by local South African artists – the art pieces (hippos of course) by local wire artist Andrew Dombuleni, as well as projects by contemporary artist Zoë Chowney and The Toy Project’s hand-made toys.

4. All work and no play makes for a really boring Cape break. Spend an hour to two lounging alongside the Hippo Boutique Hotel pool, and in-room spa treatments
can be booked on request.

5. The accommodation is fabulous … with a choice of really spacious en-suite standard and deluxe rooms, some with balconies, or views of the mountain or Signal Hill, and with all the necessities you need – tea and coffee stations, mini fridges, oversized desks for the workaholics, high-speed Wi-Fi and a laptop size safe. But we rather fancy the urban-style, double-volume Executive Apartments … a few of which are fully fitted, so brilliant if you like self-catered options. With wall-sized windows to take it the stunning views, a bedroom and open plan bathroom up on a mezzanine level, separate lounge with a sleeper couch (so perfect if you’re travelling with your kids).

The decor’s unique and vibrant, too … each room has its own signature theme and name – there’s the Hippo Suite (obvs), the stylish Mini Cooper Suite and the new Josie Borain Suite – honouring South Africa’s first true global supermodel who rose to international fame in the 80s, then swopped angles and went behind the lens, channeling her experience into a successful career as a photographer. Her work – all simplicity and striking use of natural light and the way it authentically captures the unique textures and spirit of the South African landscape – can be seen in the room … you’ll find a blend of curated objects and tactile textures that reflect her minimalist yet luxurious aesthetic.

Info
The 4-star Hippo Boutique Hotel is one of the Cape Country Routes’ collection of more than 20 privately owned hotels, lodges and guest houses located on the scenic and historic routes in the Western and Eastern Cape, all selected for their character, charm and romance. Details: Hippo Boutique Hotel hippotique.co.za, Cape Country Routes capecountryroutes.com