Dorp recently held a spectacular summer celebration to relaunch the hotel, inviting a collection of friends, both old and new, to discover what has been described as Cape Town’s best-kept secret. Perched atop Signal Hill in the vibrant and historic Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, Dorp offers a unique and intimate experience just on the fringe of the city centre.
How to Describe the Delight That Is Dorp
Dorp (meaning “village” in Afrikaans) is a nostalgic, elegantly designed haven that beautifully blends into its natural hillside setting. From the unassuming, whitewashed Georgian façade, it’s hard to imagine the sprawling, multi-layered oasis that lies behind it. The property features a delightful variety of rooms, suites, studios, and cottages, each carefully arranged around indigenous gardens, lush courtyards, and tranquil terraces. Magical nooks, winding stairways, and whimsical details are scattered throughout, creating a sense of adventure in both the public and private spaces.
Guests can unwind by resting on a bench beneath the shade of old trees, or take in the breathtaking 360-degree views from the rooftop terrace and Victorian-inspired glasshouse. The panoramic vistas stretch over Signal Hill, Table Mountain, the harbour, the Atlantic Ocean, and the city below, which transforms into a dazzling sea of lights after nightfall.
Dorp perfectly balances Georgian elegance with quirky eccentricity. The hotel exudes old-world charm and decadent luxury, offering a grand yet unpretentious atmosphere. Every corner is thoughtfully curated, with incredible attention to detail, making it a truly unique place to stay.
The Heart of Dorp: The Salon
Central to the Dorp experience is The Salon, a collaborative space that forms the heart of the hotel. This double-volume room is filled with Persian rugs, plush sofas, bookshelves, objets d’art, and towering potted palms, creating inviting nooks and a sense of privacy. Framed by Georgian arched windows, guests are treated to stunning views of Table Mountain and the city. Sunlight streams into the room, adding warmth to the vibrant atmosphere.
The Salon is more than just a lounge – it is a library, dining room, and café where you can curl up with a book, meet for coffee, or simply gaze at the magnificent view. The space is infused with a spirit of creativity and intrigue, with the playful gold-stencilled letters on one wall reading: “Decency. Originality. Respect. Psycho (DORP).”
What truly sets Dorp apart, however, is the spirit of its staff. The team is genuinely warm and welcoming, embodying a friendly, family-like atmosphere that makes every guest feel at home.
Stay at Dorp
Dorp offers a variety of accommodations split into two wings. The main wing, Dorp, has 27 rooms and suites, while the lower Onderdorp houses 15 rooms. Each room, suite, and studio apartment is uniquely designed and charmingly eclectic. With personal touches like layered fabrics on the beds and bespoke, perfume-infused Dorp toiletries, every space invites relaxation and indulgence.
There are also three shared plunge pools, perfect for unwinding under the sun on warm summer days. Access between Dorp and Onderdorp is via a long staircase or a steep walk up the hill. Onderdorp also features two versatile venues ideal for group events or meetings.
Homestyle Culinary Delights
The kitchen at Dorp is an open, lively space with a long patio that exudes a homely charm. Meals are generously served, with a focus on classic, unfussy dishes that feel more like home-cooked favourites than hotel fare. Signature dishes, such as the twice-baked cheese soufflé, famous rotisserie roast chicken, and Dorp’s take on the iconic South African Milk Tart, have been part of the menu since the hotel opened. The Salon serves lunch and dinner to both hotel guests and locals, with bookings essential.
Book Your Stay
To inquire about staying at Dorp, please contact the hotel at +27 21 612 0298 or email reservations@dorp.co.za. For more information, visit their website at www.dorp.co.za or follow them on Instagram @dorphotel.
A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering
Dorp is unlike any other hotel in the world – it offers a serene, romantic escape or the perfect setting for a longer stay. But be warned: once you check in, you may never want to leave.
