Central Cape Town. Green Point, Mother City, close to Signal Hill to be precise. That’s where you’ll find a Victorian lodge formerly called Huis Uitsig when it was built back in 1888.

A lot has changed since then, with the biggest restoration of the property taking place in 2007, ahead of the grand re-opening (and re-naming) of the 5-star Cape Diem Lodge that so many visitors to Cape Town now know and love.

All the changes have been carefully planned to ensure as many of the building’s historic original features are retained, and well over a century after the place was built, it’s still drawing in and delighting guests from all over the world. And there are many examples of work by contemporary South African designers on show here, with the European influences on their work sure to be apparent to those of you who know about that sort of thing.

The bedrooms

There are just 7 and they all sleep 2 guests in style. Whatever your level of knowledge about interior design, you’re sure to appreciate the larger than normal bed in your room, the contemporary comfort of the bathroom, and the flat screen TV.  

It’s unlikely to take you long to discover the minibar which will give you the chance to sample some South African wine if you’re that way inclined. Otherwise, help yourself to the coffee capsules, starting each day the delicious way with that wonderful aroma wafting around your room, courtesy of the Nespresso machine.

2 Superior King Rooms

As the name suggests, these rooms are the cream of the crop, one located in the original farmhouse, the other in the new pool house. Both offer luxurious surroundings for you to enjoy, with the pool house room having its own outside terrace with sun loungers.

4 Classic King Rooms

These rooms are far from identikit in their design, each boasting unique features, layouts and furnishings under their double height ceilings. Some lead direct to the pool and garden area, others open out onto a courtyard. Beds in all the rooms are beautifully comfortable, with designer ensuite bathrooms.

1 Standard Queen Room

This air conditioned loft style space features pine flooring that leads you up a staircase to the queen bed. There’s also a bathroom with tub and walk-in shower, and through the patio doors will take you out to the hotel’s terrace and pool.

Outside at Cape Diem

The Mediterranean-inspired landscaped garden always proves popular with guests, so too the large swimming pool surrounded by decking.

The elevated terrace is sundowner central - a place where you can enjoy clear views of Table Bay.  Sundowners (for the uninitiated) are a time to savour the taste of a drink as you enjoy another sunset. And the fact that they’re complimentary between 5PM and 6PM here at the Lodge makes them all the more delectable.

Also worth knowing

The food here is of the highest quality, with the breakfasts in particular attracting plenty of positive reviews. And the hotel team invites you in for a pampering, either in the on-site spa or your room.