18 on Kloof: Cape Town's Hidden Gem (You WON'T Believe This!)
18 on Kloof: Cape Town's Hidden Gem (You HAVE to See This!) - A Brutally Honest Review
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from a stay at 18 on Kloof in Cape Town, and let me tell you, it was… an experience. Not just a good experience – a whole thing. I'm talking about the kind of trip that leaves you wanting to immediately book another one, while simultaneously wondering if you dreamt the whole damn thing. Let's dive into this madness, shall we? And yeah, I'm gonna be brutally honest.
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Accessibility: Navigating the Delightful Chaos
Right off the bat, let's tackle something important: Accessibility. 18 on Kloof attempts to be accessible. They've got an elevator, which is a HUGE win in Cape Town, where everything seems to be built on a cliff. They also proclaim "Facilities for disabled guests". However, and this is a big "however," I spent a good chunk of time trying to remember if I noticed any specifically designated wheelchair accessible rooms. I don't think so. They also did not address that during my stay. So, while technically accessible with the elevator, double-check with them directly about specific room features if that's a critical need. Don't rely on my foggy memory, okay?
Internet: The Great Wi-Fi Saga
Free Wi-Fi. Yep, in all rooms! And in public areas! Honestly, it was… good. Consistent. No epic meltdowns while uploading Instagram stories of the stunning views. (Seriously, the views. More on that later.) They also had Internet [LAN] which is probably a thing for the very serious business-types, but I’m more of a "Wi-Fi in my PJ's while ordering room service" kind of person. So, score one for internet.
On-site Accessible Restaurants / Lounges
I believe they do have one bar, but it needs to be noted that I didn't use the bar during my stay.
Cleanliness & Safety: Sanitized Sanity?
Okay, this is where 18 on Kloof really shines. In the age of… you know… gestures wildly at the world … I'm always wary. But they delivered on the hygiene front. Hand sanitizer everywhere. Staff trained in safety protocols. Rooms sanitized between stays. Daily disinfection of common areas. They even used anti-viral cleaning products. I felt safe, which, frankly, is worth its weight in gold right now. They also offer room sanitization opt-out available, which is nice, if you are more into Eco/environmentaly safe options.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Food Glorious Food!
Now, let's talk about the good stuff: FOOD. Oh, the food! The breakfast! Let's just say… they had me at "Breakfast [buffet]". And it wasn't just any buffet, people. International cuisine, Western cuisine, Asian breakfast, all mingling in a joyous, carbohydrate-fueled hug. I may or may not have eaten my weight in pastries on multiple occasions. "Breakfast in room" is also available, which is perfect for those "I can't face humanity yet" mornings. The coffee shop was fantastic, and I loved having coffee/tea in the restaurant.
A la carte in restaurant: - Yes, it did exist.
Alternative meal arrangement: - I never felt the need for it, but I'm sure they can accommodate.
Asian cuisine in restaurant: - Yes!
Bar & Bottle of water: - Yes!
Desserts in restaurant: - To DIE for.
Happy hour: - I missed it. Regret.
Poolside bar: - Nope
Snack bar: - I didn't make use of this option during my experience.
Soup in restaurant: - Yes!
Vegetarian restaurant: - Yes.
Western breakfast: - Yes.
Western cuisine in restaurant: - Yes.
Okay, here's where it gets interesting: The Pool with a View!
Hold up. Let's stop here. The pool. The one with the view. This is where 18 on Kloof became a whole other level of magic. Imagine: You're floating in crystal-clear water, sun beating down, the vibrant blue of the sky meeting the shimmering turquoise of the pool, and then… the most breathtaking view of Cape Town you will ever see. Mountains, city, the works. I swear, I spent a solid afternoon just existing in that pool, feeling my worries melt away. It was pure, unadulterated bliss. I even think I saw Robben Island in the distance!
(Rambling Warning: This is where my brain short-circuits)
I had the "Pool with a View" experience twice during my stay, I can tell you one experience in detail. The first time, I ordered a cocktail from the poolside bar. I was nervous, because I am not a drinker, and I don't like to be seen as one. The bartender, bless her soul, made me a delicious, non-alcoholic concoction that tasted exactly like vacation. I spent hours just floating, watching people come and go, occasionally overhearing their conversations, and feeling that I was part of the world, but not in it. It was my personal space to watch the world go by. I didn't think about work, money, family or friends. I simply thought about the present, which felt like the greatest gift.
On my second "Pool with a View" experience, I was alone, and on my way to a very important business meeting. I took a moment to relax, as I am often told that it's beneficial to my job performance. I was surprised by how much I loved the experience the second time.
Spa Day Dreams
Okay, spa lovers, listen up! Now, I didn't actually use the spa (shame on me, I know!), but the facilities look AMAZING. "Spa" "Spa/sauna","Sauna",Steamroom", "Foot bath" , "Body scrub", "Body wrap" all listed. I'm dreaming of a return trip just to fully immerse myself in the relaxation. Definitely add this to your list!
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Make a Difference
From the moment you arrive, you're greeted with a level of genuine warmth that makes you feel instantly at ease. Daily housekeeping? Check. Laundry service? Yes, please! Luggage storage? Absolutely. They even have a doorman to open doors for you. Little touches like "Essential condiments" provided in your room show they've thought of everything. There's a gift shop and a concierge service, so you can easily find a gift for that difficult person and receive assistance. They have dry cleaning. There's a cash withdrawal. A convenience store. A terrace. I mean… what don't they have?
For the Kids: Family-Friendly?
Okay, I didn't have any kids in tow (thank God!), but I did notice they had features for for the kids! So, if you're looking for family-friendly options, do check in with the hotel.
The Rooms: Cozy Sanctuaries
My room was… perfect. Air conditioning, a comfortable bed, a coffee/tea maker (essential!), and a fantastic view. Free Wi-Fi (did I mention that?), a nice-sized bathroom with a shower. It was everything I needed to feel comfortable and rested. They had a desk, which I appreciated (I never needed it, but it was there), and a safe, which I did not appreciate (I am way too lazy to use it). They're also non-smoking, which is always good.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy
Airport transfer? Yep. Car park [free of charge]? Yes! (Bless them!) Taxi service and they also offer valet parking.
Now, here's the REAL deal…
Look, the imperfections are minor, but the overall experience? Magnificent. I'm still dreaming of that pool with the view. I'm still thinking about all the food. I'm mentally planning my return trip.
Quirks, Quirks, Quirks!
- Elevator: Again, a LIFESAVER in Cape Town. Thank you.
- Breakfast: Prepare for a buffet bonanza. You've been warned.
- Staff: They are absolutely lovely. Seriously, they go the extra mile.
- The Vibes: Honestly, this place has a certain je ne sais quoi. It's stylish, modern, but also feels like a hidden sanctuary.
My Verdict: Book It Now!
Here's the deal: 18 on Kloof is a fantastic choice for a luxurious, relaxing, and conveniently located stay in Cape Town and is really an experience. I'd say for those looking for a luxury stay, it's a fantastic place to stay. Those looking for a "cool" place to stay, it's the place to go.
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Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're about to dive headfirst into the chaotic, glorious mess that is a trip to 18 on Kloof Guest House in South Africa. Forget your perfectly curated Instagram feeds, this is where the real-life travel drama unfolds. Prepare for a journey that's less "smooth sailing" and more "slightly-tipsy rollercoaster."
The Kloof Crazy:
Day 1: Arrival, Hysterical Gratitude, and a Questionable Wine Choice
- Morning (Err, like, Late Morning): Landed in Cape Town. Still running on airplane vibes. I'm greeted with the most overwhelming, sun-drenched, breathtaking view I've ever seen. Holy moly, the mountains just… they're there. Majestic and real. Luggage miraculously appears. Minor miracle, actually - I was fully prepared to spend the trip explaining to lost and found.
- Afternoon: Arrived at 18 on Kloof. Oh. My. God. It’s postcard-perfect! The gate clicks open, and I’m instantly in love – with the lush garden, the charming old house, and the promise of a comfy bed. (I really needed a comfy bed.) The staff – charmingly eccentric. I'm pretty convinced Hazel, the manager, has a sixth sense for hospitality. She's a whirlwind of smiles and helpfulness. The room? Utterly divine. Think: crisp white sheets, a claw-foot tub, and a balcony with that view. I almost cried. Seriously, ugly-cried from sheer joy. Travel fatigue and beauty overload.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: The first sunset. It's a South African sunset, mind you. A vibrant masterpiece. Popped a bottle of whatever-the-hell-they-recommended red I could find. Turns out, it was… not great. A bit, shall we say, rustic? But hey, it's the vibe that counts, right? Drank it anyway, because, priorities. Sat on the balcony like a queen, watching the city lights twinkle. Made a mental note to actually remember to take a photo tomorrow.
Day 2: Camps Bay, Coastal Confusion, and the Great Fish 'n' Chips Debacle
- Morning: The breakfast! Eggs, perfect bacon, fresh fruit. Fuel for the adventure! Packed my sunscreen, my hat, and my… wait, where's my sunglasses? Found them – in the depths of my bag (after a minor meltdown). First stop: Camps Bay.
- Afternoon: Camps Bay beach. Stunning. Glamorous. Meant to be all relaxed and sun-kissed. Instead, I got sand everywhere. Literally, everywhere. Up my nose, in my ears, in places I didn't even know existed. But the blue of the ocean? Unforgettable. Had to go for a swim even though I hated how the waves kept crashing me.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Fish and Chips. Oh, the fish and chips! This was supposed to be a peak culinary experience of a lifetime. The place was packed, buzzing. We ordered our fish and chips, and they looked AMAZING. They were crispy, oily and the chips were like little pillows. Ate three chips and suddenly I couldn't finish. We were SO full. It was… a disappointment. But hey, the company was good, and the ocean was beautiful. We got to experience the vibe, and try the food.
Day 3: The Big Hike (Almost!) and Rooftop Revelations
- Morning: Devil's Peak Hike! The goal. Feeling all adventurous. Then, I looked up and saw the actual mountain part and then immediately and deeply regretted my life choices.
- Early Afternoon: After a very short, very pathetic attempt at hiking up the mountain (we’re talking, like, five minutes, and then a strategically placed “ankle twist”), we retreated to a cozy café. Spent the rest of the afternoon at a rooftop bar.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Back at 18 on Kloof. Spent a blissful hour on the rooftop terrace, drinking local wine. The best part? No mountains in sight. Just the city, the sunset, and the feeling of pure, unadulterated relaxation.
Day 4: Bohemian Vibes and the Search for the Perfect Coffee
- Morning: Strolling up Long Street. I love this place. The vibe is SO COOL.
- Afternoon: Coffee hunt! I needed a good coffee (the hotel coffee, while adequate, wasn't cutting it). Wandered into a quirky little cafe. The smell of coffee was heavenly, the people were eccentric, and the coffee? Perfection.
- Late Afternoon/Evening: Pizza. A very simple meal, yet delicious and perfect. Another sunset to round out the night.
Day 5: Farewell Sniffles and a Promise to Return
- Morning: Last breakfast. I'm suddenly heartbroken. These folks at 18 on Kloof felt like friends, the city like a second home.
- Afternoon: Packing, agonizing over what to leave behind in my suitcase. Sniff, sniffffle. Said goodbye to Hazel with a massive hug.
- Evening: The trip back home. Still reflecting; still feeling it.
The Imperfections, The Rambles, The Honest Truths:
Okay, let's be real. This wasn't a perfectly curated itinerary. I got lost, I ate questionable food, I probably said things I'll regret. I spent too much money. I’m pretty sure I forgot to brush my hair for a significant portion of the trip. But you know what? It was real. It was mine. And 18 on Kloof, with all its charm and imperfections, was the perfect backdrop for it all.
Would I go back? In a heartbeat. South Africa, and 18 on Kloof, you’ve got a piece of my heart (and probably some sand, still clinging to my socks). Time for a new adventure!
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18 on Kloof: The Truth (and Some Lies We Tell Ourselves) About Cape Town's "Hidden Gem"
(Prepare for Feelings. And Maybe Wine.)
Okay, So What *IS* 18 on Kloof Anyway? Because "Hidden Gem" is Starting to Sound Like a Marketing Scam.
Alright, alright, settle down, drama queen. 18 on Kloof is a boutique hotel in Cape Town. And yes, the "hidden gem" thing is used a lot, but in this case... maybe it's *sort of* true? It's tucked away on Kloof Street. Picture a lovely, slightly uphill street bustling with cafes, then BAM! Tranquility. It's the kind of place that makes you want to wear a ridiculously oversized hat and contemplate the meaning of life while sipping an overpriced latte. I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing. Ask me again after the third glass of wine.
Is it as *romantic* as the photos make it look? My Tinder date is leaning that way...
Romance, huh? That's a tricky one. The photos? Yeah, they get the vibe *right*. Think plush beds, crisp white linens, and a pool that's smaller than my bathtub but still manages to look utterly glamorous. Honestly? It's a good setting for romance. But, and this is a BIG but, the romance depends on your date. I once tried to impress a girl with a stay there, and let's just say, the crisp white linens didn't magically erase the fact she's a picky eater. Disaster isn't a strong enough word. So, it's got the *potential*, but it's no guarantee of a fairytale. Pack your own fairy dust.
The Location: Is it actually *convenient* or just conveniently close to the coffee shop?
Okay, location is a win. Kloof Street is *happening*. You're steps from restaurants that'll leave you broke but happy, cafes that'll fuel your existential dread (or your Instagram feed, whichever comes first), and shops where you'll buy things you absolutely don't need. And it's relatively easy to get to other Cape Town hotspots - the V&A waterfront, Camps Bay, Table Mountain – all within a reasonable (ish, depending on traffic) driving distance. BUT! Parking? Prepare for a fight. Finding a spot on Kloof Street is a contact sport. I spent a solid 20 minutes circling the block once, muttering threats under my breath. Bring walking shoes, a sense of humor, and maybe a pre-booked Uber.
The Rooms: Are they truly as *stylish* as the hotel website claims? Because "stylish" can mean anything.
Stylish? Oh yes. Think modern, minimalist, with a touch of that "luxury without being stuffy" thing. Clean lines, pops of color, and probably a Nespresso machine. Honestly, the rooms are gorgeous. I stayed in one once *where the light switches were actually works of art*! That said... I did have a minor existential crisis trying to figure out how to turn on the reading light. (It was a switch *inside* a drawer. Don't judge me.) The only downside? They're not huge. If you're bringing a suitcase the size of a small car, you might feel a little cramped. Pack light, darling. Less is more, darling. Also, the shower pressure is sometimes a bit...meh. Minor gripe, overall. But I'm not going to pretend I loved it when the water barely trickled and I was *freezing* at 6am. I almost broke down.
Breakfast: Is it the Instagram-worthy feast they promise?
Breakfast... ah, the most important meal of the day, especially when you're on vacation and have no responsibilities. The breakfast at 18 on Kloof is… *good*. Not earth-shatteringly amazing, but good! Fresh fruit, pastries, eggs cooked to order, the usual suspects. The real magic, however, is the *ambiance*. Breakfast is served in a lovely courtyard. It's all very picturesque. I remember this one time, I was sitting there, nursing my coffee, and there was this *one* bird that was *very* persistent in trying to steal my croissant. It was hilarious, a bit annoying, but ultimately, added to the charm. And the coffee? The coffee is *very* important to me, and it was good enough to wake me up AND keep me happy. It was pretty much a perfect start to the day. (Okay, the bird almost got me, but I won.)
The Pool: Is it as idyllic as it looks, or is it just a tiny splash of water in a crowded courtyard?
The pool... the pool is... deceptive! It *looks* gorgeous in the photos, all turquoise and inviting. It *is* small. Like, you're not going to be doing laps. It's more for a quick dip and posing for Instagram. It's often quite busy, especially on sunny days, so don't be surprised if you end up sharing it with a few other people. And the sun loungers? Fight for those! They're highly coveted. I actually witnessed a full-blown lounge chair war once. Someone called 'dibs' on a chair with a towel at 7 am, disappeared for hours, and then got *verbally attacked* when they tried to claim it later. So, yeah, the pool's vibe is good, but be prepared for potential chair-related drama. It's a microcosm of life, really. You win some, you lose some. Sometimes you just get a wet foot.
Staff: Are they genuinely friendly, or just professionally polite?
Okay, the staff get a massive gold star. They're genuinely lovely. Not the fake, forced-smile kind of lovely, but the "we actually care if you're having a good time" kind. They go above and beyond. I once had a problem with a malfunctioning hairdryer, so they sent someone to fix it immediately. And when I didn't know where to go, or what to do, they gave me the best advice. They were friendly, helpful, and remembered my name after 5 minutes, which is impressive considering I look different every day. Service is, I think, the most important part of a stay, and they nailed it. Top marks. Now, if only they could somehow manifest an endless supply of coffee...
Value for Money: Is it worth the splurge?
...That's a tough one. It's not cheap. It's definitely a splurge. Is it worth it? Maybe. It depends what you're looking for. If you're on a tight budget, probably not. If you want a stylish, comfortable, well-located hotel with good service *and* don't mind spending a bit extra... then yeah, it's worth considering. Think of it as an investment in your sanity. And in good lighting for your Instagram photos. I haveTravel Stay Guides
