A New Era for the Iconic Lord Charles Hotel in Somerset West
The Lord Charles Hotel, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, has been a landmark in Somerset West for decades. Now, after a major refurbishment, it joins other independent, characterful hotels as South Africa’s first Tribute Portfolio Hotel in the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. We decided to give it a visit to experience for ourselves its new blend of timeless elegance with a modern twist.
Suites with Style
We were hosted in a Classic Room, which could be configured as a twin or a double. With seamless Wi-Fi, a 40” flat screen TV, a comfortable seating area and a desk, it had everything we needed.
Each of the 198 guest rooms features rich emerald-green hues and comfortable, inviting spaces. They also have private outdoor areas, many of which face a small dam with a scenic gazebo and beautiful views.
Due to the hotel’s extensive conferencing facilities, people often associate it with business travel. Because of its location near some of South Africa’s most renowned wine estates, golf courses, beaches and cultural landmarks, it is just as appealing for leisure travel too. Families can book one of 20 specially designed rooms that sleep up to four guests.
Dining at the Lord Charles
Food lovers will find plenty to indulge in at the Lord Charles Hotel, which combines South African and British influences.
To start, the hotel’s Garden Terrace offers continental and hot English breakfasts. The buffet serves everything you could want in a breakfast buffet, from fresh pastries to hot dishes and made-to-order omelettes. Meanwhile, La Vigna Restaurant is well worth a visit, whether you’re staying at the hotel or not. With its tasteful tropical decor and elegant ambience, it is perfect for lunch or an evening out. On warmer days, guests can also dine al fresco by the pool.
Of the things we sampled, the Cape Malay chicken curry with basmati rice, traditional sambals, poppadom and battered roti made for a flavour-filled and hearty meal. Not surprisingly, it paired beautifully with fine wines from the region’s renowned vineyards. The dark chocolate brownie with berry gel, berry compote and chocolate ice cream was a great way to finish the meal. All in all, on what was a cold winter’s night, the experience warmed us from the inside out.
A Pub with Personality
Step into this bar and you’ll feel like you have been transported to a pub in Scotland. Everything here is distinctly golf-themed, drawing inspiration from the hotel’s close proximity to amazing golf courses. However, despite the theme, large screens show rugby matches and other live sporting events beyond just golf. The pub serves hearty meals and pints in a relaxed setting, ideal for catching up with friends or enjoying the game.
A World-Class Conferencing Venue
As mentioned, the Lord Charles Hotel caters to business and event needs. As one of the largest conference venues in the Cape Winelands, the hotel boasts 11 fully equipped meeting rooms and flexible event spaces that can accommodate up to 500 delegates. The common area surrounding the conference venues doubles as a gallery where impressive local art is on display.
More Than Just a Hotel
The hotel features two swimming pools, a fitness centre, a library, three tennis courts, a hairdresser and a tranquil spa. An elegant lobby lounge with two striking abstract trees welcomes guests as they step through the front doors.
Located on 22 acres of 18th-century farmland, guests can also enjoy a leisurely stroll through the expansive gardens. From the dam to the gazebo and a gently flowing stream, the beautiful grounds offer a peaceful escape. Colourful sculptures are sprinkled throughout.
Ultimately, the Lord Charles Hotel delivers on its promise of timeless elegance with a modern twist. From décor to service, every detail reflects a confident step into a new era.
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