Hotel President

Set on the Atlantic shore between Lion's Head and the ocean, The President Hotel occupies a site in Bantry Bay that has welcomed guests since 1817. The building stands 50 metres from the Sea Point promenade, sheltered from prevailing winds in a bay that records nearly 300 windless days each year. Rebuilt in 1998 and opened by Nelson Mandela, the hotel now holds 349 rooms, apartments, and suites across multiple floors.

Rooms face either the Atlantic or the granite slopes of Lion's Head. Classic Mountain Rooms measure 31 m² and include an open-plan kitchenette, seating area, and separate toilet. One-bedroom apartments add full kitchenettes and Smart TV connectivity; two-bedroom apartments extend to dual bathrooms. The Presidential Ocean Suite wraps a private balcony around two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full lounge, and dining space. Universally accessible rooms on each floor feature wide doorways, wheelchair-accessible showers, and hand rails.

Architect and designer Sarah Barnes developed a textile pattern for the hotel in 2024, drawing on archways from the 1700s Society House, mid-century forms from the promenade, and coastal elements — horizon, rock pools, sun. The Cove Wellness Spa offers massage, facials, and body treatments. An infinity pool overlooks the ocean. Botany Café and the restaurant serve South African menus; Sunday lunch draws on regional tradition. Dogs stay in designated rooms with bowls, bedding, and a pet menu on request. Neurodivergent rooms, designed with Autism South Africa, prioritise sensory comfort. You can hear the Atlantic from the terrace as kelp gulls call overhead.