Overview: Dorp Lodge, Cape City, Western Cape, South Africa

Because it celebrates its fifth anniversary, Dorp (Afrikaans for village) has maintained a moderately low profile, as is commonly the case with sure hidden gems. Following the event of a loyal following and important options in worldwide magazines, the identify is now heard extra regularly – and, as I found over two visits, for good motive.

The welcome

A 12 months after my first go to, I as soon as once more stepped via the doorways, and the identical employees warmly greeted me – impressively remembering me from my earlier keep. There are handshakes and even a number of hugs as I stroll via the lodge. As I enter my cottage, the doorway desk bears a welcome observe signed from “your Dorp family,” moderately than “the Dorp family.” 

This delicate pronoun change displays the Dorp ethos. It conveys the ‘welcome home’ sentiment that many inns declare however wrestle to ship. Understanding it was a special day, there was additionally an ice bucket showcasing a superbly chilled bottle of Boschendal Cap Classique – a favorite amongst South African glowing wines.

The room

Dorp boasts 42 rooms, every enchantingly distinctive, unfold throughout the whitewashed buildings on the property. Every of the Georgian-style lodging blocks possesses its personal character, creating the texture of a village moderately than a lodge. A formidable R200 million has been invested in these rooms – no small endeavor – and it exhibits. There’s a way of stepping past boutique, into rigorously curated areas paying homage to an inside journal. The rooms are organized like a labyrinth, main off from pool courtyards and gravel backyard paths.

Throughout my first keep, Room 3 felt like residence – and whereas categorized as one of many entry-level rooms, it’s among the many prettiest, with bespoke wallpaper adorning the partitions, a bevvy of lovely materials throughout the bedding and curtains, and a non-public courtyard for absorbing the sunshine. Better of all, it’s merely steps from the restaurant once you need to roll out within the mornings for breakfast.

Of all of the rooms, Rose Cottage is the crown jewel within the assortment – and I had the privilege of calling it residence throughout my second go to. Strolling alongside a backyard path, double picket doorways open into a big eating room and kitchen, full with a visitor lavatory. A brief passage results in the spacious bed room. Three units of doorways open from the bed room to not solely unparalleled metropolis views but in addition a non-public pool for cooling off in the summertime warmth. Sitting within the freestanding bathtub, the town views stretch out on one facet, and a wood-burning fireplace on the opposite.

Exterior, the magic unfolds with an alfresco eating space adjoining to the pool. Via a backyard tunnel, a staircase ascends to a rooftop terrace that spans the whole cottage. Right here, we dined, basked within the solar on the loungers, and gazed on the metropolis’s million twinkling lights under. As if this weren’t sufficient, there’s even a private steam room simply outdoors the entrance door. This might fairly presumably be the town’s most coveted sanctuary.

The services

The restaurant/lounge serves because the central gathering area for the lodge. The realm is vibrant with foliage, shiny art work, and an array of couches and tables. Within the evenings, candles illuminate the eating room, creating a mild atmosphere complemented by mushy music and flickering flames dancing off the palm leaves. Right here, meals are served, together with the famend rotisserie hen – a dish that transforms guests into repeat friends. Though there’s no liquor licence, friends are welcome to carry their very own drinks with none corkage charges – or they will order their drink of selection through Uber and have it delivered to their desk.

Breakfast is at all times a splendid affair. As a substitute of menus or lacklustre buffets, the every day providing encompasses a desk laden with delights, together with recent fruit, luxurious truffles, cooked choices, and a lot extra. Meals can be loved on the outside terrace, shaded by charming umbrellas and potted vegetation. A staircase additionally results in a rooftop terrace the place 360-degree views of the town await.

The situation

The Bo-Kaap is a culturally wealthy suburb straddling the CBD and rising up the slopes of Sign Hill. The attribute vibrant homes characterize one of many metropolis’s most photographed and visited areas. Amidst the brilliant colors, one good points fascinating perception into the neighborhood’s life, together with the aromas of conventional Cape Malay delicacies, which blends Malaysian, Indonesian, and African flavours.

Longmarket Road winds via the suburb, climbing increased and better till a remaining steep stretch takes you to Dorp. Upon exiting the automotive, two issues greet you – the town of Cape City unfold out far under and the attractive white buildings saying your arrival at Dorp.

Different good touches

The property’s distinct ‘village’ really feel evokes ideas of a wine farm moderately than a metropolis setting. Upon stepping off the veranda, a stone path guides you thru the whitewashed buildings, all adorned with lush landscaping. You’ll share the area with Cape Robins, dragonflies, and the lodge’s resident cats, all relishing the sanctuary of the backyard. There’s additionally a courtyard pool for a refreshing dip.

The whole property consists of the Dorp, and through a staircase, the Onderdorp serves as a separate wing that’s equally appropriate for small conferences or group bookings. There, you’ll additionally discover the deli and store to take residence a few of the iconic lodge paraphernalia – in addition to three further swimming pools.

The fee

Rooms are seasonably  priced, starting from R4700 to R14000 in Dorp, and from R4000 to R6800 in Onderdorp. Particular charges can be found for group bookings, which embrace conferences, weddings, and different intimate gatherings. All rooms include breakfast, in addition to complimentary room snacks and mushy drinks.

The very best bit

Let’s face it; all luxurious inns provide comfy beds and good meals, however a lot of the expertise relies on the employees. The 42 rooms are supported by 66 employees members, guaranteeing that each want is catered to. Judging by the employees retention, which will be unusual in hospitality, they clearly take pleasure in their roles as a lot because the friends do. On my remaining morning, I approached the grand piano that had been softly beckoning me since our arrival. As I performed a conventional South African track, I used to be pleasantly stunned to seek out that by the refrain, at the very least 10 enthusiastic employees members had gathered behind me, becoming a member of in with nice spirit.

The ultimate verdict

The Dorp could also be categorized as a lodge, nevertheless it’s far out of your typical institution. Somewhat, it’s a sublime and eclectic village floating excessive above the town of Cape City, operated by a staff of fantastic employees. After two stays, the Dorp firmly claims its place as my primary lodge in Cape City; in spite of everything, who says a journey journalist can’t have their favourites?

Disclosure: Our keep was sponsored by Dorp.

Jared Ruttenberg

Jared Ruttenberg is a journey author from Cape City, South Africa. He enjoys connecting folks and experiences via phrases, photos and social media.