I believe one of the hallmarks of a good hotel stay is the way you are greeted on arrival – as the saying goes, first impressions last. We arrived at The Last Word Constantia after an extremely hectic day, which included a long list of admin errands, Friday afternoon traffic and a flat tyre, so to say that we were feeling harassed and exhausted would be accurate. We were greeted by a smiling staff member in the parking lot before even exiting the car, our luggage was whisked away without a backward glance and we were ushered into the foyer where we immediately exhaled and relaxed.

In the foyer we were met by the duty manager Tessa, who showed us our room and immediately invited us to enjoy a glass of wine by the pool ­– music to our ears! We sat poolside and sipped on a glass of Graham Beck bubbles and enjoyed the tranquillity of this suburban retreat.
The Last Word Constantia is one of three, Cape-based properties that form part of the luxury Mantis portfolio and Preferred Hotels and Resorts, and they certainly live up to their name. The Constantia hotel is an oasis – when sitting in the gardens, surrounded by the most beautiful natural flora, it is easy to imagine that you are a million miles away from the city centre, instead of just a short drive away. The design of the property gives the sense of being in a residential home, yet with the privacy and convenience of a modern hotel. The balance of the two makes it ideal for frequent travellers ­– modern hotel conveniences, in a stylish and secluded environment.

Our room was beautifully decorated in tones of cream and green and was made more spacious by the addition of a lounge and private patio. The stunning mosaic shower is the star of the bathroom and adds a wonderfully bright element to the room – this is a power shower at its very best.

The Last Word hotels operate on a bed and breakfast basis and each property is aligned with a local eatery that offers dinner. Given that the property is located right next to Peddlars & Co. they are perfectly positioned to be able to offer fantastic cuisine to guests. We dined at Volaré Ristorante, with Executive Chef Brad Ball at the helm, and enjoyed a divine meal with signature dishes such as the butternut and sage gnocchi and the pork belly. We were escorted to the restaurant and back by a Last Word staff member through a private back door – very secret garden-esque!

When we arrived back at our suite, we found that our beds had been turned down with fluffy velour gowns and slippers provided along with two delicious crème brûlées – what a treat! We happened to be celebrating a birthday and a box of Lindt Lindor chocs had also been left, along with a handwritten birthday wish. What really surprised us was the attention to detail – we had only mentioned in passing conversation that the birthday celebration had been on the Wednesday of that week, and this detail was noted on our card. It was just a small point, but showed such meticulousness ­– the kind that sets this type of property apart from its peers.

The following morning we enjoyed a sumptuous breakfast spread laden with fresh fruits, berries, yoghurts, granola and pastries, as well as a selection of hot courses. We took breakfast in the glass conservatory, which overlooks the gardens­ – dining in this sunny spot is an energising way to start the day.

At the Last Word Constantia we experienced superlative hospitality from every staff member and found it to be a truly relaxing environment. For the weary business traveller, or the visitor exploring the city, this is a wonderful cocoon to return to at the end of the day. For those looking to celebrate a special occasion, you will be hard-pressed to find a reason to venture beyond its walls.

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