March in Cape Town – what’s new?

The past month was beautiful and we had wonderful summer days with lots of sunshine & beach days. Slowly the cold air is creeping in and one can feel that autumn is on its way…..

At the beginning of March we had the famous Cape Town Cycle Tour – it is a 109 km route through some of the most beautiful scenery around Cape Town. It happens every year – so mark your calendar for next year – 08.03.2026 😊

We at Ilanga Travel did not participate (haha!), but we kept ourselves busy and checked out some new and old properties which we would like to tell you about.

We all know Cactusberry Lodge in Oranjezicht, which was owned by Barbara. Sadly she sold the guest house at the end of last year and it now has a new owner, Dorian.

So, on a warm Wednesday afternoon we went to visit Cactusberry Lodge to visit Dorian and his team. They have been working hard for months to renovate the guest house to provide guests with a warm and comfortable experience.

The guest house has 5 rooms of different sizes, an inside and outside lounging area and a small courtyard where breakfast is served during the warm summer months.

Breakfast consists of muffins, breads, cheeses, yoghurt, muesli, fresh fruit and a hot breakfast. Dorian is eager to help and guide guests with any questions and day activities.

Please note: Children are no longer allowed, this is for adults only. There is also no swimming pool – but there is an amazing suite right on top which is very spacious and perfect for your longer stays in Cape Town.

Then – we also discovered a new guest house just around the corner from Cactusberry, called Tom’s Guest House. In fact it is not “new” but is new to us and Ilanga Travel. We were impressed!

What a wonderful reception, arriving at Tom’s Guesthouse for a sight viewing, being welcomed with open arms by David, the host and owner, who relocated from Germany with his wife and three children. This serene guest house caters for families with 3-bed guestrooms and two double ensuite rooms upstairs that can be closed off to form an inter-leading family room. There are seven rooms altogether.

At the reception table, Ilka, David’s wife, has created a beautiful portfolio catalogue to help guests navigate with adventure and gourmet-deliciousness through Cape Town. Using a QR code you can download everything on your phone.

Breakfast can be eaten indoors or on the patio, with a view on to the small pool surrounded by comfortable shaded loungers. You can help yourself to the honesty bar for thirst-quenching drinks and tasty snacks. In winter, there is a warm crackling fire welcoming you “home”.

A perfect location for families with children of all ages!

We also finally made our way all the way to Hout Bay to explore Future Found Sanctuary from Newmark Hotels – a gem and a hidden secret in Cape Town!

The hotel is located against the mountain slopes of Hout Bay surrounded by beautiful fynbos.

The property has 3 different buildings offering unique and tastefully decorated rooms. Each room has been carefully decorated by the owners. Their unique style and taste in art is boasted throughout the property.

Future Found Sanctuary invites you to use one of their many facilities such as their lounges, natural pools, spa and sauna, and gym. If you do not feel like dining out, the hotel offers both lunch and dinner. The chef carefully prepares each meal using ingredients from their gardens and can cater to all dietary requirements. The breakfast is just as inviting – from a hot breakfast to a buffet which is served at a communal dining table.

If you do not feel like driving, you can ask one of the butlers to arrange a transfer into town for you. Future Found Sanctuary will ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay with extra little spoils and much attention to detail.

And now we will enjoy the last days of summer and are looking forward to what the new season has in store for us!😊

Your Ilanga Travel Team