The Camps Bay strip is known the world over for its enviable beauty. Almost year-round the late-night bars are usually abuzz with sandy-footed holidaymakers drinking cocktails and toasting breathtaking coastal sunsets. However, even the glittery microcosm of Camps Bay could not escape the reality of lockdown and, like the rest of the country, things have been eerily quiet. However, spring is upon us, and South Africans are ready to step out of lockdown and out into the light, and there is no better place to do this than along the platinum mile. Tucked away in amongst the hubbub is The Marly, a sophisticated and uber slick boutique hotel.

THE LOCATION

Part of the hotel overlooks the busy party strip and if you’re looking to be in the thick of it, this is the place to stay. Literally a few steps up from the beach and you’ll be ensconced in the cool confines of the hotel.

If you want to be near the action but prefer a little more respite, then book into one of their mountain facing rooms, just as elegant and with panoramic views of the back of Table Mountain.

THE LOOK

The Marly is part of The Kove Collection (including The Alphen Hotel, Blanko and Lily’s to name just a few) and a theme of crisp, stylish elegance is evident across all the properties.

A monochromatic palette of black and white is enriched with plush stylish touches such as baroque gilded mirrors and cushy velvet chairs. These, in turn, are contrasted by contemporary pieces such as white leather couches, Eames-style chairs and cool black and white framed art prints.

Ornate wall paper throughout the hotel lobby gives a rich, contemporary vibe without feeling stuffy. Quirky and bright, colourful touches dotted through reception and the hallways bring a little funk.

THE ROOMS

Rooms at The Marly are a good size, with tea and coffee making facilities and a complimentary drinks bar. Both sea and mountain facing rooms have balconies, so you can order snacks to enjoy with a glass of wine. If you don’t feel like heading out (and trust us, the rooms are so comfy you may not), you can order room service from the group’s restaurants on the strip and dine in (these include la Belle Bistro & Bakery, Bilboa, Paranga, Zenzero and Surfshack).

In keeping with the décor, the rooms are also a clean monochromatic colour scheme with crisp white linens and minimalist style. The bathrooms are beautifully decorated in grey and white marble, complete with rain shower and heated towel rail.

If you do book into a sea-facing room, your deck, complete with seating for two, will be a stunning spot to take in a world-class Camps Bay sunset in privacy – an absolute treat.

Baptiste Rooftop, Pool Bar & Lounge

The Baptiste Rooftop, Pool Bar & Lounge and pool deck area will be reopening ahead of summer and this stunning space can be found on the top level of the hotel.

If you’re not in the mood for the bustle of the beach, you can soak up the sun from a plush daybed and not have to compromise on the stunning views. There is simply no better spot in Camps Bay to enjoy the surroundings from – roll on summer!

The Marly Spa

Another industry that has suffered as a result of Covid-19 has been the spa and beauty one., so we were glad to see The Marly Spa back up and running. The team are taking every precaution possible to make guests feel safe in the space.

The spa is located on the same level as the restaurants and follows the stylish look of the hotel. With a range of specialised beauty, rejuvenation and massage treatments, guests are spoilt for choice.

We enjoyed a Quench massage and were so impressed with the amazing treatment. We chose our favourite from a range of Zents oils, as well as the colour of lighting in the treatment room. With the room at a temperature perfectly warm enough to make you forget the cold oustide, as well as ambient music, it felt like a cosy cocoon that we would never want to leave.

WHERE TO DINE

The hotel is right above a choice of restaurants that also belong to the Kove Collection, so where you dine really just depends on the vibe you are looking for. With stunning views and food on offer, you can wander down at your leisure and simply wander back afterwards. No driving involved, what bliss.

We opted to dine at Bilboa, which has a selection of amazing seafood and steaks. We opted for the tuna main and the crispy-skinned salmon and both dishes were divine; the tuna having just kissed the pan for an even, sesame-crusted sear all round and the salmon perfectly pink. A broccolini side dish and a green salad with sumac and rocket were both ideal partners to these dishes.

We enjoyed with a bottle of local Chardonnay which felt right with the seafood dishes, despite the chilly weather. It would be remiss not to also add how delish the lemon tart dessert was! Utterly yum.

In the morning La Belle Bistro and Bakery provides breakfast for hotel guests. The portions are generous with a selection from a hot and cold menu. Both the Avo Toast with Eggs and The Marly breakfast were very yummy and you couldn’t ask for a better spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and watch the bay wake up.

WHY YOU SHOULD BOOK

In stark contrast to the usual chaotic bustle of Camps Bay, The Marly is a cool and luxe retreat. Even with strict Covid protocols in place, the super organised team will have you checked in and settled in no time and will go out of their way to assist you with restaurant and spa bookings.

Live Like a Local Deals

If you’re looking for an intimate, luxury stay in one of the world’s most beautiful places, then you’ve found it at The Marly. And, with their current specials, there is simply no better time to visit.

Room Only

Camps Bay nights & seaside sunsets are yours to experience with a stay at The Marly. This exclusive offer includes accommodation for two, excluding breakfast.

From R2 350 Per Room Per Night

Spring Break

Celebrate the sunshine with The Marly’s offer of accommodation for two, including bed & breakfast and dinner at either Paranga, Zenzero, Surfshack or Bilboa.

From R3 050 Per Room Per Night

Tranquillity Time

Relax and rejuvenate mind and body with our pampering offer of bed & breakfast plus a treatment for two at The Marly Spa in the form of a relaxing 60-minute full-body Quench massage for two.

From R4 650 Per Room Per Night including massages

Camps Bay’s Calling

Sun, sea, sand and a picnic on Camp Bay’s golden shores! Enjoy accommodation for two and a sunset picnic on the beach set up by our beach butler for your convenience.

From R3 950 Per Room Per Night  including picnic set up on the beach

The Classic Cruise

Zip around Cape Town in a luxury sports car. Taking you along the peninsula’s most beautiful roads, the tour makes a pit stop at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden before it’s back into the driver’s seat to enjoy the rest of your stay at The Marly – bed & breakfast and picnic basket included.

From R6 350 Per Room Per Night including cruise

Best of Both Worlds

2 nights at The Alphen + 2 nights at The Marly Boutique Hotel & Spa. Includes dinner, bed & breakfast + airport transfers.

Build your package by choosing any 2 or 3 of the experiences for each stay.

From R9 600 for 4 nights inclusive

Check out more info on these packages HERE.

themarly.co.za | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram