Visual Hotel Review: The Twelve Apostles Hotel
Warm hues were already glistening across the Atlantic as I checked into my room at the Twelve Apostles Hotel before quickly changing for evening cocktails at The Leopard Bar.
When I know the sun is setting though, I don’t faff about getting fancy.
With the Atlantic Terrace pool located between my room and the bar, I had the ideal opportunity to stop and photograph the sunset before meeting the group. Sparkles shone across the ornately tiled mermaid mosaic and the deep navy deckchairs and umbrellas were illuminated with one last dose of daily glow.
Between shots I took a moment to stare out to sea, stopping to smell the thick salty air and listen to the waves as they crashed against the granite boulders dotting the coastline. Located within Oudekraal Nature Reserve just outside of Camps Bay, the towering cliffs of Table Mountain National Park are also a photogenic aspect of the hotel’s location, acting as a dominant backdrop to the meandering shoreline.
Inside The Leopard Bar, the gorgeous light continued, highlighting the décor and artistic concepts which carried through to pair with stunning views from the deck toward Lion’s Head.
Style and sophistication ooze from the walls here, a stirring mix when blended with the southern seas and botanical treasures surrounding the hotel and spa.
The Location
Here, you truly feel like you’re at the end of the world, where mountains meet the sea. Surprisingly though, it’s just a 15-minute drive from the V&A Waterfront, meaning you get to experience the tranquility of the hotel’s scenic spot, and never be too far from Cape Town’s central areas.
The hotel’s unique location offers unparalleled access to nature trails throughout Table Mountain National Park. One evening I took my camera on a wander along one of the trails where endemic bushes and flowers line the path. The scent of fynbos and the slowly rolling fog which clung to the cliffs created an immersive scene to capture.
Of course, just in front of the hotel is the Atlantic Ocean, offering the chance to swim, paddle, or surf some well-renowned waves that roll into the nearby Camps Bay shore.
See the small marker with the white building beside the sea in the image below…that’s the hotel! Such a beautiful spot.
The Natural Wonders
Table Mountain is home to around 1,500 plant species, making it a region of extensive biodiversity which happens to begin the moment you peek outside your hotel window. Surrounding The Twelve Apostles Hotel are trails that weave through private garden trails toward the more public trails a little higher up the hill.
Throughout the gardens you’ll find most of the plant species within the Fynbos vegetation, comprising of four main groups: Proteas, Ericas, Restios and Bulbs. If you’re staying at the hotel, be sure to spend a few hours exploring the accessible wilderness on the doorstep, the trails also have stunning views along the coastline, you’re never far from the sound of the sea.
The Little Luxuries
Rooms at The Twelve Apostles Hotel range from classic doubles, appointed with cosy furnishings and garden views, through to the superior sea-facing suites, where sunrise over the sea will greet you as you sip a morning coffee on your balcony or sunken lounge.
Due to high occupancy during my stay, I was in an accessible room, huge in dimensions, with a large shower, deep bath and patio area with a hammock, all nice and easy to access from the elevator and pool deck. Because I love sharing options with readers, I also had a peek inside the other room styles, so below you’ll find images of my room, and the superior sea facing suite which I’d highly recommend if you’re treating yourself to a weekend by the sea!
One thing I was struck by not only this hotel, but the three Red Carnation hotels I stayed at during my time in South Africa, was the artwork on display. The hallways, rooms, dining areas and lobby were filled with the most original pieces, showcasing talented local and international artists alongside impeccable décor choices with wallpaper and linens combining to create such whimsical spaces.
The Experiences
You may opt to lounge by the pool or enjoy the cocktail menu but if you’re looking for experiences that offer an immersive impact, The Twelve Apostles Hotel aims to inspire positive change by providing MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences in connection with The Travel Corporation. They’re focused on showcasing local communities and culture, opening doors to opportunities to help create sustainable cities and settlements.
Opt for a Bo-Kaap Walking tour and Malay Cooking Class, or visit the Amy Foundation to see youth programs in action. You can also chat with the team at reception to reserve a private tour if you’ve got something special in mind.
The Photography Opportunities
If you’re a photographer who enjoys shooting sunrise and sunset with a dash of shimmering sea, and floral features at your disposal to help frame and enhance your image…you’ll be one very happy snapper.
With the hotel’s grounds and surroundings offering a multitude of photography locations, my tip is to photograph at both sunrise and sunset as they offer such a striking difference. One morning we woke to thick fog blanketing the landscape, sunset that day was a glowing wonder, revealing beautiful light to highlight the rocky features, floral patterns and crashing waves.
With Lions Head in clear view from the hotel, head out to the deck in front of Azure Restaurant for a stunning vantage point!
As with all visual hotel reviews, it’s time to let the photos do the rest of the talking, enjoy a collection of images I captured during my three-night stay at The Twelve Apostles Hotel.
For more information about The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, visit their official website.
*Please note, I was a guest of South African Tourism and Adventure World, this stay was part of a press trip itinerary, however all views, notes and experiences remain my own. Oh and images, they’re all mine too 😊
Travel and landscape photographer from Australia who is far more comfortable in a pair of flippers than heels! Having worked for publications such as Lonely Planet, Wanderlust and the Sunday Times, Lisa founded The Wandering Lens to share destination guides to the worlds most photogenic places and outdoor experiences.
