5 PLACES TO HAVE HIGH TEA IN CT

Recently named the best city in the world by the Telegraph Travel Awards, people visit Cape Town for an array of reasons. Some come for the stunning ocean and mountain views, others come to experience old-world luxury and some merely want to experience a culinary feast. Why not do all three? Here are our top stops to enjoy a spot of tea in the Mother City.

Eat cucumber sandwiches and petit fours at The Mount Nelson Hotel 

The iconic white arches of the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel at the foot of Table Mountain sets a certain tone from the moment of entry. Expect to feel transported to a time of high luxury with decor straight out of a Jane Austen novel and a cake table from Marie Antoinette’s dreams. There are three rounds of teas each day and it is crucial to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

After Explore oldest park in South Africa, the Company’s Gardens right across the road.

OF NOTE
Where Belmond Mount Nelson, 76 Orange Street, CBD
Cost R225 per person for morning tea, R295 per person for afternoon and evening tea
Contact +27 21 483 1948, [email protected]

Indulge in pink bubbly and gold leaf pastries at the One&Only

Regarded as one of Cape Town’s most luxurious hotels, tea at the One&Only at Cape Town’s famed V&A Waterfront is something of an experience. Expect gold leaf eclairs, macarons and the daintiest French pastries around. Tea is served daily from 2:30 pm and it is recommended to book in advance.

After Don’t forget to explore the harbour and V&A Waterfront as well as its many shops and attractions. Why not enjoy a few hours in the world-renowned Two Oceans Aquarium?

OF NOTE
Where One&Only Cape Town, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront
Cost R225 per person
Contact +27 21 431 4511, [email protected], www.oneandonlyresorts.com

Dine with an ocean-view at the Winchester Mansions 

If tea with a view is what you’re after, then Winchester Mansions situated on the Sea Point Promenade overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is your destination. Offering tea every Saturday afternoon with live music, a selection of fine imported teas, and a glorious sunset, be sure to book your spot in advance.

After: Take a long leisurely stroll on the Greenpoint Promenade

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Where Winchester Mansions, 221 Beach Road, Seapoint
Cost R330 per two people sharing
Contact +21 434 2351, [email protected], www.winchester.co.za

Enjoy a garden tea-party at the Kirstenbosch Gardens 

There are few places in the world that are so ideally located for high tea than the Kirstenbosch Gardens Tea Room. Located inside one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world at the foot of the Silvermine Mountain range, expect pristine views and a peaceful experience. Tea is served everyday, all day so be sure to pair your cake with a long stroll through the garden.

After: Be sure to walk on the “Boomslang” aerial walkway over the treetops and don’t forget to peek into the garden’s famous cycad amphitheatre.

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Where Kirstenbosch Gardens, Rhodes Drive, Newlands
Cost R145 per person
Contact +21 799 8783, [email protected], www.sanbi.org

Take a luxurious break beside the bustling Cape Town inner-city 

Nestled in the centre of the city, just around the corner from Stop 5 on Long Street, you will find the Taj Hotel offering a feast for the tastebuds. Expect lots of delicious chocolate treats such as chilli-hot chocolate, chocolate eclairs, choc–chip scones, chocolate truffles and chocolate cake.

After: Explore the the city by navigating to the Greenmarket Square Market and shop for arts and crafts or hop on a red bus to see the best that Cape Town has to offer.

OF NOTE
Where Taj Cape Town, 1 Wale Street, CBD
Cost R95 per person
Contact +21 819 2000, www.tajcapetown.co.za
How to get to get around

The City Sightseeing red bus stops off at these great attraction 365 days a year, every 15 minutes. Why not make a day of it to explore the best Cape Town has to offer? Tickets cost R90 for kids aged 5 to 17 and R190 per adult (plus a special discount if you buy online). Buy tickets here.

Adapted from a press release by City Sightseeing. 

Photography courtesy Amy Treasure / Robyn Randolph / Tamara Menzi / Mathew Waters / Ornella Binni / Brina Blum / Unsplash.com