The Winchester

This third-generation family-owned hotel is a sanctuary of green lawns, fountains and gorgeous spaces. At its heart is a Italian-style courtyard with cafe tables and chairs, surrounded by a colonnaded walkway and stone walls – you could be sipping an espresso in Rome. There's a heated pool for dips, and patios for chilling. Harvey's Restaurant and Bar, adjacent to the entrance, is a firm fixture in Cape Town, with its enviable cocktail list, European-inspired cuisine, and jazz brunches on Sundays.

Rooms range from classic doubles to plush suites, all spotless, with different layouts and furnishings (some more modern than others). They have either a sea, mountain or courtyard view, and plenty of natural light. The standard doubles have comfortable queen-sized mattresses and spacious en-suite bathrooms. Two Balcony Suites offer a good degree more room, with a small lounge and sliding doors that make the most of the views. Whichever you choose, you'll be quite comfortable.

Urban meets outdoorsy in sophisticated Sea Point, with its high-rise apartment blocks and swathe of commonage. Walk the ocean-hugging promenade (or rent a bike while you're there), watch skydivers land, stop at a cafe, or head back to the hotel for a drink at the bar or in the leafy courtyard. Take a dip in the pool (or visit the huge Sea Point pool on the promenade). The Mother City's delights are manifold – the concierge will oblige with advice.