Arabella Hotel, Golf & Spa-an All-in-One Escape

Cape Town Tourism
June 26, 2024
Health & Wellness
4 min Read

If you want the ultimate all-in-one escape, look no further than Arabella Hotel, Golf & Spa, located 90 minutes from Cape Town.

The 5-star hotel ticks all the boxes- whether you’re seeking a golf break with friends, a family holiday, or a romantic couples’ spa retreat. Situated in the picturesque Kogelberg Biosphere, one of the world’s richest floral reserves, the hotel presents some of the most stunning views imaginable. We recently visited, and here’s what you can expect.

Accommodation

You have the choice of 145 modern rooms and suites, which include Deluxe and Deluxe Premium rooms, suites, and two mega-sized Presidential Suites.

All rooms are impressively spacious, adorned with rich woods and plush furnishings that draw inspiration from South African design and the stunning UNESCO reserve that surrounds the hotel. The outdoor space, particularly the accommodation with balconies, offers views of the lagoon, mountains, and the hotel’s well-kept, beautiful grounds, perfect during sunrise and sunset.

Anticipate lavish amenities, including ensuite bathrooms with both bath and shower adorned in sleek marble, a choice between king-size or twin beds with various pillow options, complimentary uncapped WiFi, a flatscreen TV, coffee and tea facilities, a workspace, nightly turndown service, a lighted makeup mirror, a mini-fridge, and international plug adaptors.

The hotel has two wheelchair-friendly Deluxe rooms specifically designed to provide you with accessibility and comfort. The Presidential Suites, complete with a lounge and dining area, also feature a bathroom equipped with a private sauna and spa bath, as well as a large private balcony perfect for enjoying sundowners.

What To See and Do

While it might be tempting to stay in your room for the entire trip, Arabella offers plenty of exciting activities on the property.

These include:

Award-Winning Golf Course

Tee off on the Arabella Golf Course, a 72-par 18-hole course that allows you to play in one of the country’s most striking backdrops. Ranked fifth in the country by Golf Digest, the Peter Matkovich-designed course is enhanced by world-class amenities such as a driving range, Pro Shop, GPS-equipped golf carts, and lessons from the club’s resident professionals. The course is open to day visitors with the option to play either 9 or 18 holes. For those who aren’t very familiar with golf, you can try your hand at putt-putt or tennis, both available free for hotel guests.

Spa

The hotel’s spa is a delight for visitors, home to a unique African Rainforest experience that spans a 120-minute journey of pampering. This 13-step programme includes treatments aimed at enhancing blood flow, boosting immunity, improving circulation, and promoting a sense of calm.

A variety of signature spa treatments are available, including massages, facials, and upon request, waxing and tinting, all designed to promote healing and relaxation.

Hotel guests also enjoy complimentary access to the hydro-pool, steam room, sauna and gym, accessible anytime during operating hours. We recommend that you indulge in some ‘me-time’ at the pool loungers, enjoying a cup of tea and a good book.

Dining and Drinks

After working up an appetite at the golf course and the spa, we headed to dinner at Jamani restaurant. This relaxed, all-day farm-to-table dining experience offers something for everyone, from hearty South African-inspired dishes to satisfying pasta, burgers, and pizzas. Jamani also serves buffet breakfast in the morning and is open for lunch.

Laguna Lounge provides a more laid-back atmosphere, where you can unwind with a hot beverage and a slice of cake. Barnabas Bar, overlooking the pool, serves drinks, cakes, and light snacks throughout the day. It’s perfect for those looking to catch up on emails, meet for pre-or post-dinner drinks, or socialise with fun games, which can be requested at reception. There is 24-hour room service in case you get those midnight cravings.

Other Amenities

During the summer months, and for those feeling adventurous during winter, you can visit the hotel’s main pool, named after the Laughing Waters waterfall. Here, you can lounge by the pool, lunch by the loungers, or sip a cocktail. Arabella is dedicated to exceeding guest expectations, providing concierge services, secure outdoor and complimentary valet parking, airport handling, dry cleaning, and a travel desk. For a bit of retail therapy, visit the Designer Jewellery & African Curios boutique conveniently located near the reception area. And if arriving by air suits your style, there’s even a helipad available for your convenience.