This stay was a complimentary partnership with Tintswalo Atlantic, more on that at the end of this post.
If you find yourself visiting South Africa, there’s no doubt in my mind Cape Town will be on your itinerary. This city that meets the sea has become a huge drawcard for international travellers looking for more to Africa than a safari. With incredible food and world-class hotels, it’s little wonder many travellers choose to start their African journey here. And if you’re after a romantic stay just outside the city, here’s why Tintswalo Atlantic should be your first choice.
Tintswalo Atlantic
As far as remote hotels go, you can’t get much more remote and isolated-feeling than Tintswalo Atlantic, and yet the property is just a short 35-minute drive from Cape Town’s city centre. That’s the beauty of Cape Town: it doesn’t take long to get out of the city and into nature.
Tintswalo Atlantic sits just outside Hout Bay, right before the Chapman’s Peak toll gate. This is commonly considered one of the most scenic drives in the world, and I have to say, I agree. I’d driven Chapman’s Peak more times than I can count before this trip, but this was my first stay at the property itself.
Getting there
The nearest airport is Cape Town International, roughly a 45-minute drive from the property depending on traffic through the city and along Chapman’s Peak Drive. Most guests arrange a private transfer through the hotel or hire a car, since this is very much a scenic-drive destination in its own right.
Checking in to Tintswalo Atlantic
I checked into Tintswalo Atlantic for a glorious two-night stay, any less and you’d be doing yourself a disservice. The property sits down a winding path, right on the ocean, and every room is ocean-facing, the perfect escape to fall asleep to the sound of the Atlantic crashing against the rocks below.
When I arrived, the weather was beginning to turn, not uncommon for this time of year. Spring in the Western Cape can be hit and miss, though by day two the skies had opened up. The best time of year to visit is throughout summer, December through April, when you’ll get the best weather in Cape Town and mostly clear, sunny skies.
The rooms at Tintswalo Atlantic
Each suite at Tintswalo is decorated with its own unique flair, drawing on island themes from around the world. We stayed in the Kenya Suite, which was reminiscent of my travels in the Maasai Mara, complete with an extra-large deck right on the shoreline that made it difficult to ever want to leave the room. Once you do make time to explore, there’s a heated swimming pool, a guest lounge area, and a celebrated restaurant on site.
Every room is equipped with all the essentials, for me, that’s a Nespresso machine (coffee is a non-negotiable in the mornings), plus a study desk, a large bathtub, a television, and a bottle of wine on arrival. That last one isn’t strictly essential, but if you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know it kind of is.
What it costs to stay
Rates at Tintswalo Atlantic start from around ZAR 8,500 (roughly USD $460) per night, depending on suite category and season, and typically include breakfast. Current pricing fluctuates with the exchange rate and time of year, so check directly with the hotel or your travel agent for an exact quote before booking.
Dining at Tintswalo Atlantic
One of the highlights of our stay was dining at the restaurant. The fine dining on offer is a genuine gastronomic experience, especially if you opt for the five-course tasting menu, guests choose five dishes from a changing seasonal selection. There were only a few vegetarian options on offer, which just gave me the excuse to order two desserts.
There’s also an à la carte menu if you’d prefer something lighter. On our second evening we went à la carte, and the portions were still generous.
Breakfast was another highlight, served either in the restaurant or in the privacy of your ocean-facing suite. Expect yoghurt and homemade granola, a selection of pastries, and eggs cooked any way you like. I can also highly recommend the homemade orange juice, the perfect way to start the day after one too many glasses of wine the night before.
FAQ
How much does it cost to stay at Tintswalo Atlantic? Rates start from around ZAR 8,500 (roughly USD $460) per night depending on suite and season. Check directly with the hotel for current pricing.
How far is Tintswalo Atlantic from Cape Town? About a 35-minute drive from the city centre, and roughly 45 minutes from Cape Town International Airport, via the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive.
When is the best time to visit Tintswalo Atlantic? Summer, December through April, for the most reliable clear, sunny weather in Cape Town.
Is Tintswalo Atlantic good for a romantic getaway? Yes, it’s one of Cape Town’s most romantic properties: ocean-facing suites, a clifftop setting on Chapman’s Peak, and a celebrated on-site restaurant make it a strong pick for anniversaries and honeymoons.
A huge thanks to Tintswalo Atlantic for welcoming me to experience two nights at the property. All views and opinions are my own, as are the photos from my stay.
Planning more of Cape Town? Don’t miss the best hotels in Cape Town and 20 best things to do in Cape Town.
Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.
