The Cape Grace is a byword for genteel hospitality where you needn’t leave the hotel to experience excellent wine tasting, sample whiskies from around the globe, revive yourself with a lavish afternoon tea or have a fine-dining dinner. Situated on a private quay in the ever-popular V&A Waterfront, the harbour’s waters are never far off and Table Mountain provides a charming backdrop.

Younger guests aren’t forgotten in the rarefied atmosphere: age-appropriate activities like baking gingerbread cookies are part of the deal. There’s a sleek spa and fitness centre as well as a hair salon for mid-vacation touch-ups. The subdued but polished décor hints at Cape Town’s storied past, a theme that runs through the rooms as well as the restaurant.