Review: Dorp Hotel, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa

As it celebrates its fifth anniversary, Dorp (Afrikaans for village) has maintained a rather low profile, as is often the case with certain hidden gems. Following the development of a loyal following and significant features in international magazines, the name is now heard more frequently – and, as I discovered over two visits, for good reason.

The welcome

A year after my first visit, I once again stepped through the doors, and the same staff warmly greeted me – impressively remembering me from my previous stay. There are handshakes and even a few hugs as I walk through the hotel. As I enter my cottage, the entrance table bears a welcome note signed from “your Dorp family,” rather than “the Dorp family.” 

This subtle pronoun change reflects the Dorp ethos. It conveys the ‘welcome home’ sentiment that many hotels claim but struggle to deliver. Knowing it was a special occasion, there was also an ice bucket showcasing a perfectly chilled bottle of Boschendal Cap Classique – a favourite among South African sparkling wines.

The room

Dorp boasts 42 rooms, each enchantingly unique, spread across the whitewashed buildings on the property. Each of the Georgian-style accommodation blocks possesses its own character, creating the feel of a village rather than a hotel. An impressive R200 million has been invested in these rooms – no small undertaking – and it shows. There’s a sense of stepping beyond boutique, into carefully curated spaces reminiscent of an interior magazine. The rooms are arranged like a labyrinth, leading off from pool courtyards and gravel garden paths.

During my first stay, Room 3 felt like home – and while classified as one of the entry-level rooms, it’s among the prettiest, with bespoke wallpaper adorning the walls, a bevvy of beautiful fabrics across the bedding and curtains, and a private courtyard for soaking up the sunshine. Best of all, it is merely steps from the restaurant when you want to roll out in the mornings for breakfast.

Of all the rooms, Rose Cottage is the crown jewel in the collection – and I had the privilege of calling it home during my second visit. Walking along a garden path, double wooden doors open into a large dining room and kitchen, complete with a guest bathroom. A short passage leads to the spacious bedroom. Three sets of doors open from the bedroom to not only unparalleled city views but also a private pool for cooling off in the summer heat. Sitting in the freestanding bathtub, the city views stretch out on one side, and a wood-burning fire on the other.

Outside, the magic unfolds with an alfresco dining area adjacent to the pool. Through a garden tunnel, a staircase ascends to a rooftop terrace that spans the entire cottage. Here, we dined, basked in the sun on the loungers, and gazed at the city’s million twinkling lights below. As if this weren’t enough, there’s even a personal steam room just outside the front door. This could quite possibly be the city’s most coveted sanctuary.

The facilities

The restaurant/lounge serves as the central gathering space for the hotel. The area is vibrant with foliage, bright artwork, and an array of couches and tables. In the evenings, candles illuminate the dining room, creating a gentle ambience complemented by soft music and flickering flames dancing off the palm leaves. Here, meals are served, including the renowned rotisserie chicken – a dish that transforms visitors into repeat guests. Although there’s no liquor licence, guests are welcome to bring their own drinks without any corkage fees – or they can order their drink of choice via Uber and have it delivered to their table.

Breakfast is always a splendid affair. Instead of menus or lacklustre buffets, the daily offering features a table laden with delights, including fresh fruit, sumptuous cakes, cooked options, and so much more. Meals can also be enjoyed on the outdoor terrace, shaded by charming umbrellas and potted plants. A staircase also leads to a rooftop terrace where 360-degree views of the city await.

The location

The Bo-Kaap is a culturally rich suburb straddling the CBD and rising up the slopes of Signal Hill. The characteristic colourful houses represent one of the city’s most photographed and visited areas. Amidst the bright colours, one gains fascinating insight into the community’s life, including the aromas of traditional Cape Malay cuisine, which blends Malaysian, Indonesian, and African flavours.

Longmarket Street winds through the suburb, climbing higher and higher until a final steep stretch takes you to Dorp. Upon exiting the car, two things greet you – the city of Cape Town spread out far below and the beautiful white buildings announcing your arrival at Dorp.

Other nice touches

The property’s distinct ‘village’ feel evokes thoughts of a wine farm rather than a city setting. Upon stepping off the veranda, a stone path guides you through the whitewashed buildings, all adorned with lush landscaping. You’ll share the space with Cape Robins, dragonflies, and the hotel’s resident cats, all relishing the sanctuary of the garden. There’s also a courtyard pool for a refreshing dip.

The complete property includes the Dorp, and via a staircase, the Onderdorp serves as a separate wing that is equally suitable for small conferences or group bookings. There, you’ll also find the deli and shop to take home some of the iconic hotel paraphernalia – as well as three additional pools.

The cost

Rooms are seasonably  priced, ranging from R4700 to R14000 in Dorp, and from R4000 to R6800 in Onderdorp. Special rates are available for group bookings, which include conferences, weddings, and other intimate gatherings. All rooms come with breakfast, as well as complimentary room snacks and soft drinks.

The best bit

Let’s face it; all luxury hotels offer comfortable beds and good food, but much of the experience depends on the staff. The 42 rooms are supported by 66 staff members, ensuring that every need is catered to. Judging by the staff retention, which can be uncommon in hospitality, they clearly enjoy their roles as much as the guests do. On my final morning, I approached the grand piano that had been softly beckoning me since our arrival. As I played a traditional South African song, I was pleasantly surprised to find that by the chorus, at least 10 enthusiastic staff members had gathered behind me, joining in with great spirit.

The final verdict

The Dorp may be classified as a hotel, but it’s far from your typical establishment. Rather, it’s an elegant and eclectic village floating high above the city of Cape Town, operated by a team of wonderful staff. After two stays, the Dorp firmly claims its position as my number one hotel in Cape Town; after all, who says a travel journalist can’t have their favourites?

Disclosure: Our stay was sponsored by Dorp.