Tip-top high teas in Cape Town

30 August 2018

Enjoy tasty treats and a beautiful drive along the coast on board the red bus. Here’s our ultimate guide to the top high teas found along City Sightseeing open-top bus routes ...

5. Enjoy your tea with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean at the President Hotel

The President Hotel is a landmark hotel in Cape Town famous for its beautiful pool and terrace looking out over the Alantic Ocean. Enjoy Bellini-tea-infused sparkling wine, followed by tiered trays filled with cucumber sandwiches; crumpets topped with salmon and caviar; tomato, basil and mozzarella tartlets; and scones topped with lemon curd – to name just some of the delicious treats.

Price: R195 per person.

After: Hire a bicycle at the Sea Point Pavilion to enjoy the promenade in style and take in even more gorgeous views along the ocean.

4. Enjoy a garden tea party at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (stop 20 )

There are few places in the world as ideally located for a high tea as the Kirstenbosch Tea Room. Located within one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world, at the foot of the Silvermine mountain range, expect pristine views and a peaceful experience. Tea is served all day, every day, so be sure to pair your cake with a long stroll through the garden.

Price: R190 per person.

After: Walk along the Boomslang aerial walkway and enjoy views over the treetops. Don’t forget to peek into the garden’s famous cycad arboretum.

3. Dine with an ocean view at Winchester Mansions (stop 11)

If tea with a view is what you’re after, then Winchester Mansions, situated on the Sea Point Promenade overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, is your destination. Enjoy tea every Saturday afternoon (treat your mom a day before Mother’s Day!), along with live music, a selection of fine imported teas and glorious sunsets. Be sure to book your spot in advance.

Price: R360 per two people sharing.

After: Take a long leisurely stroll along the Green Point Promenade.

2. Indulge in pink bubbly and gold-leaf pastries at the V&A Waterfront (stop 1)

Tea at the One&Only Hotel – regarded as one of Cape Town’s most luxurious hotels – is something of an experience. Expect gold-leaf eclairs, macarons and the daintiest French pastries around. Morning tea is served daily from 9am to noon, and afternoon tea is served from 2.30pm. It is recommended that you book in advance.

Price: R195 per person for morning tea, R325 per person for afternoon tea.

After: Don’t forget to explore the harbour, as well as the V&A Waterfront for its many shops and attractions. Why not enjoy a few hours at the world-renowned Two Oceans Aquarium or hop on the City Sightseeing Harbour Cruise for a maritime treat?

1. Eat cucumber sandwiches and petits fours at the Mount Nelson Hotel (stop 15)

The iconic white arches of the Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel at the foot of Table Mountain set a luxurious tone from the moment of entry. Expect to feel transported to a time of high luxury, with decor that could be from a Jane Austen novel and a delectable cake table. There are three rounds of teas each day and it is crucial to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Price: R285 per person for morning tea, and R365 per person for afternoon and evening tea.

After: Hop on a City Sightseeing bus and see more of Cape Town’s iconic sights or explore the oldest park in South Africa, the Company’s Garden, right across the road.

Hop-on Hop-Off

Hop on the open top red bus and enjoy the sights of Cape Town – from Table Mountain to the V&A Waterfront, from Camps Bay to Kirstenbosch. The Classic package gives you one full day on the bus covering all hop-on, hop-off tours.

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