PRICE:
Frommer's Very Highly Recommended

In the oldest residential area of Cape Town, amid partly cobbled streets and quaint 18th-century Cape Malay architecture, De Waterkant has an almost European feel, and places you in the heart of Cape Town's most fashionable shopping district, with loads of great restaurants and nightlife options within easy strolling distance. Village & Life offers 55 fully serviced, self-catering apartments and cottages -- either choose one from the website or specify when booking whether you want a plunge pool and/or a good view (luxury or superior category), and whether you prefer modern furnishings or a Cape cottage style. Note that while some of the high-season prices quoted may appear a tad steep, these are usually for two- or three-bedroom cottages, possibly with a plunge pool. Staff will stock your cottage with food and other items, given prior notice (but overall service standards are a little lax -- this is by no means a hotel experience). If you don't care to self-cater, a good-value option is the elegantly furnished De Waterkant House, a B&B with plunge pool and lounge overlooking the harbor; book the Harbour View suite (R1,250-R1,500/$174-$208/£89-£107) double, depending on season), which comprises the entire top floor and has stunning views. If you prefer a more contemporary style, The Charles is the latest addition to De Waterkant Village's burgeoning portfolio -- book room no. 6 for the best city view (R1,500/$208/£107) -- but do check availability at the Village Lodge, by far the best-dressed guesthouse in the Village. Note: If you want to check out the full range available in this area, take a look at Cedric's Lodges (tel. 021/425-7635; www.cedricslodge.com; R900-R1,400/$125-$194/£64-£100 double) or contact De Waterkant Lodge and Cottages at www.dewaterkant.co.za.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's South Africa, 5th Edition, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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