Nestled in the leafy suburb of Upper Wynberg, Palm House Boutique Hotel and Spa is a peaceful sanctuary, offering an ideal escape from the frenetic pace of the city. It is perfectly placed on the cusp of the Constantia Winelands, and just a short drive from all the activities of the city centre. We recently indulged in their exclusive Indulgence Offer and were captivated by the lush green gardens, the unique Nordic Banya barrel sauna, delicious cuisine, and what can only be described as the best massage we’ve experienced in years.

A Grand Welcome at Palm House Boutique Hotel

The stately home, now a National Monument, has recently undergone a thoughtful refurbishment that marries its historic charm with modern luxury, making it ideal for business and leisure travellers alike. Its two and three-bedroom suites are ideal for families and are located in the gardens and around the pool area.

Although it was a typically wet and windy day when we visited, there is no doubt that the pool area will be a popular spot come summer. With sun-soaked loungers and its majestic namesake palms swaying in the background, it will be blissful.

In the true style of its era, the pillared entranceway gives way to beautiful Herringbone floors, bespoke wallpaper, and graceful chandeliers that complement the original wood panelling in the reception area and the sweeping staircase. The décor is luxurious and inviting, striking the perfect balance between opulence and homey comfort.

We stayed in the Pinot Noir suite, located in the main house, along with 9 other rooms. Our room was incredibly spacious with a plush king-size bed and a sweeping view over the gardens.

Once we had checked in, we took a seat in the lovely bar and lounge area, complete with an enviable curved plush window nook, and enjoyed a glass of local MCC and snacks from the kitchen – including the most delicious Bitterballen!

A Serene Spa Experience

A visit to the Açaí Spa is simply a must. Located just steps from the main house, the spa is a haven of tranquillity, offering a range of wellness treatments using holistic products from the Healing Earth™ range. The wellness oasis courtyard, which is adjacent to the spa, features a unique Nordic pine barrel Banya sauna, complete with the sweetest shingled roof.

The spa is a haven of tranquillity, offering a range of wellness treatments…

Alongside it is a bubbling jacuzzi – we spent time in both simply relaxing and enjoying the quiet and warmth on a rather cold and blustery August day. This time to unwind added an extra touch of luxury to our day and, for visitors who have been exploring the city, this will be the ideal way to decompress.

The highlight of the spa for us was undoubtedly the couple’s massage in the dedicated treatment room. The two skilled therapists who looked after us, Leandri and Bianca, worked in harmony to create the most amazing experience.

The highlight of the spa for us was undoubtedly the couple’s massage in the dedicated treatment room.

From the curated playlist to the ideal temperature of the room, the thoughtful scents and the intuitive massage, we felt our stress and tension melt away. We left feeling deeply rejuvenated and relaxed, having experienced one of the most thoughtful spa experiences we’ve had in a long time.

A Foraged Dining Experience

The dinner we experienced at Palm House was a special event arranged for Women’s Day and dishes were a culinary showcase of Cape Town’s indigenous flora and flavours. This special dinner was prepared by Executive Chef Gregory Henderson, also known as The Forage Chef, and was inspired by Fynbos, with a strong emphasis on seafood and sustainability. Although this was a special menu for the evening, Chef Gregory’s menu for de Tafel restaurant at Palm House will continue to be inspired by the same and will be equally as inventive as it is delicious.

The 5-course menu included highlights like Saldhana Bay Oysters with smoked mayo, buchu gremolata, bokkoms and truffle pearls and Silverfish with seaweed candy, fish bone potato, amaasi and cornsilk cream. Special mention must also go to the Fynbos honey Panna Cotta with Heuningboegoe crème glacèe – divine!

Impeccable wine pairings from the inimitable Carmen Stevens, a pioneering female winemaker, elevated the experience, complementing each course and enhancing the flavours of the foraged ingredients.

Book Your stay

A stay at Palm House Boutique Hotel and Spa is much more than a mere getaway; it’s an opportunity to find moments of quiet, which in a busy city, can be a challenge. Whether you’re relaxing in the spa, enjoying a gourmet meal, or indulging in their sumptuous afternoon tea, the Palm House experience is designed to cater to your every need.

With its perfect blend of historic charm and modern sophistication, this boutique hotel offers an unforgettable experience in one of Cape Town’s most charming neighbourhoods.

Indulgence Package – Available until 30 Sept 2024

The Palm House Indulgence Offer gives you every reason to enjoy the season in the Cape and includes:

• Luxurious accommodation
• Welcome coffee or cocktail on arrival
• Welcome in-room canapés and a bottle of Palm House Red (or sparkling grape juice)
• A 60-minute massage at the Acai Spa
• A 3-course dinner menu at the Palm House Terrace
• Full English breakfast
• The Palm House Indulgence Offer is priced per person and is available for single or double occupancy.

10 Oxford Street, Wynberg South Africa | Tel: (+27) 21 745 5008 | Email

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