The Cole: Checking-In to Cape Town’s Newest Coastal Icon
A New Address for Local and International Travellers
Perfectly positioned on 1 Church Road in Sea Point, just steps from the promenade, The Cole rises above the Atlantic Seaboard with a quiet confidence. As the newest five-star boutique hotel from the Kove Collection, it carries the group’s signature sensibility: creatively curated, design-led, and unmistakably Cape Town.
But staying at The Cole revealed something far more layered than just a magnificently beautiful hotel.
Arrival: Where Anticipation Meets Ease
There’s a particular pleasure in arriving somewhere that feels aware of the moment. The lobby was alive with the soft rhythm of a social weekend – silk dresses brushing past linen blazers, the gentle pop of a cork somewhere in the background, sunlight pouring in through expansive windows, and the crashing of waves sounding through open doors.
And yet, there was a sense of calm all about you.
The interiors lean into a palette of sandy neutrals and warm woods, echoing the beach just beyond the road. It feels contemporary but not cold; refined but never rigid. A space designed for people who appreciate natural details.
Our arrival felt like:
As soon as we were on the doorstep of The Cole, the lobby doors opened wide, our suitcases taken from us as we were ushered inside to the front desk. Everyone was attentive and on standby, dressed with warm smiles.
The Suite: A Private Pause Above the Sea
Opening the door to our suite, the energy of the city softened instantly. Floor-to-ceiling windows let the light in and opened to ocean views stretching endlessly west, whilst interiors whispered rather than shouted. It was clear The Cole understands restraint – nothing excessive, nothing unnecessary. Just thoughtful luxury.
Before dinner, we connected to the Marshall speaker in our room, made two cups of Nespresso coffee, and opened the balcony doors to the Atlantic shimmering below. This moment felt like a quiet ritual before the evening to come. Coffee in hand, gazing out to see, Sea Point began to stir – with runners, boats coming into harbour, cars lining up on the road, and streetlights flicking on. Our room felt like sanctuary amidst a dream.
Our room experience was defined by:
Having been shown to our room by the Front of House Manager, we were stood in awe for a moment or two. The room had a naturalist design, with light wood cupboards, dreamy neutral linen and curtains, a comfortable sofa, massive television, stunning bathroom, big shower, balcony furntiture and more. We didn’t know what to do first – indulge in a hot shower after a day of travelling or jump on the impossibly soft bed. A phone ringing decided for us; we were reminded of our dinner reservation at Figo in 30 minutes.
Figo: Mediterranean Lightness, Atlantic Drama
Eight floors up, Figo offers a different perspective on life – both literally and figuratively. The rooftop is washed in ocean light by day, golden hues by sunset, and moonlight by night, with the Atlantic stretching endlessly beyond the glass balustrades.
The menu leans Mediterranean: wood-fired pizzaa, handmade pasta, freshly grilled prawns, and charred fillets give way to seasonal simplicity. There’s theatre in the open kitchen: it’s confident cooking, best enjoyed slowly.
Figo positions itself as a place where glamour meets the coast. In the full room, all guests were dressed up in a way that screamed Cape Town luxury. Amongst the clicking of cutlery and the sounds of laughter, Figo stood out as The Cole’s – and Sea Point’s – ultimate dining destination.
Dinner at Figo felt like:
Exiting the elevator, we didn’t need a signpost to tell us where to go; the lull of conversations immediately led us in the direction of Figo. The restaurant was filled to the brim, with waiters and waitresses bustling about the place. We were led to our table overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Sea Point’s promenade, a sight we didn’t take for granted. We chose a Kove Collection Red Blend to accompany our meal at the suggestion of our server, who also recommended the Garlic Prawns and Octopus Carpaccio starters. Mains consisted of White Tigers Prawns and Beef Fillet in a Diane Sauce, and making room for dessert, a sorbet trio to share. The staff were attentive without being overbearing, and the food was immaculate, making us wish for empty stomachs so we can eat it all over again.
Cocktails as Chapters at Script
After dinner, we found ourselves drawn to Script, the hotel’s lobby cocktail bar. The concept is poetic: each drink inspired by a “chapter” in a guest’s story. It feels intimate, almost cinematic, as though every pour carries narrative weight.
The lighting is low and flattering, whilst the seating encourages conversation. There is something undeniably magnetic about starting (and ending) a night here.
Restoration in the Midst of Cape Town
After a stunning breakfast that consisted of brioche french toast, freshly baked pastries, eggs benedict, and unlimited coffee, that was then followed by a long walk along Sea Point’s beaches, The Cole’s Urban Spa felt almost necessary. Sauna warmth, the shock of a cold plunge, the quiet of a treatment room – small elements that restored equilibrium.
There’s also the pleasure of wandering through Boutique Marly, where resort wear and coastal-inspired pieces tempt even the most disciplined traveller. It’s the sort of boutique that makes you reconsider your packing choices, and add a few more to the pile to take home.
The Cole as a Destination Address
The Cole becomes more than just accommodation on a holiday; it is part of the narrative. It becomes home for however long you stay within its walls, and just like home, you sometimes never want to leave.
We loved its proximity to the beach, Sea Point’s bustling main street with bars, cafés and boutiques. It was a point of centrality to the local chaos sometimes present in Cape Town’s coastal towns.
The Cole doesn’t shout for attention. It doesn’t need to. It is a study in modern coastal living – design-led, socially aware, and deeply attuned to its setting. Perfect for couples, business colleagues, friends and family, The Cole positions itself as the ultimate Sea Point hotel that becomes a home.
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