The President Hotel
4 Alexander Road, Bantry Bay 8001 South Africa
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4.0
#5 of 7 hotels in Bantry BayLocation
4.6
Cleanliness
4.4
Service
4.3
Value
4.3
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Located in Bantry Bay between the vibrant city and the Atlantic Ocean, the President Hotel welcomes you to Cape Town and all its breath-taking sights, thrilling activities and inspiring moments. Sophisticated luxury and personal service come standard while local style and innovative design set us apart. Relax in our bright, spacious rooms and apartments with an array of luxury facilities, smart technology and stylish design. Spend sun-kissed days beside the infinity pool, savour delicious locally inspired cuisine in our dining areas and bars. Explore the beaches, mountain, shopping and outdoor adventures just moments away. Experience Cape Town. At The President Proudly part of the Preferred Hotels and Resorts Lifestyle Collection
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Property amenities
Parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
Bar / lounge
Babysitting
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Pets Allowed ( Dog / Pet Friendly )
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Outdoor pool
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast buffet
Poolside bar
Kids club
Airport transportation
Taxi service
Business Center with Internet Access
Conference facilities
Banquet room
Meeting rooms
Spa
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Concierge
Non-smoking hotel
Doorperson
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
Room features
Air conditioning
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Room service
Safe
Kitchenette
Microwave
Flatscreen TV
VIP room facilities
Refrigerator
Room types
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to TGCSA - Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.
HOTEL STYLE
Business
Centrally Located
Languages Spoken
Afrikaans
Location
4 Alexander Road, Bantry Bay 8001 South Africa
Getting there
Great for walkers
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travelers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 94 out of 100
94
Cape Town Intl Airport
13.1 mi•
See all flights
Rental Cars
32 Restaurants
within 0.3 miles
Reviews
4.0
3,325 reviews
Reviews summary
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
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The President Hotel garners high marks for its cleanliness, with the majority of guests commending the well-kept rooms and public areas, though a few have noted the bathrooms could be improved. The rooms are often described as comfortable with modern touches and scenic views, yet some guests mention noise and maintenance problems. Value-wise, the hotel's reasonable rates and prime location offer good bang for the buck, despite occasional letdowns in dining and room expectations. While the atmosphere is largely celebrated for its elegance and inviting nature, some believe there's room for enhancement.
The service stands out positively, with many guests applauding the staff's friendliness and professionalism, though a handful have encountered less impressive encounters. Amenities are deemed adequate, with particular praise for the location's convenience and breakfast offerings, but some suggest that entertainment and play options could be expanded. Overall, the hotel's location is a hit among visitors, appreciated for its easy access to the beach, trails, restaurants, and city sights.
Location
Convenient
Atmosphere
Welcoming
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Reasonable
Cleanliness
Mixed
Service
Friendly
Amenities
Satisfactory
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3,325Reviews45Q+A100Room tips
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Detailed Reviews
+1
It's great that SA has re-opened and we are able to enjoy the delights and weather of the southern hemisphere especially when the weather is cold and miserable in the UK.
The President was my Cape Town home again for 7 nights and it was a pleasure to be back. The hotel has been modernised during lock down and some lovely new photos adorn the rooms and corridors depicting the local areas and wildlife, all very welcoming.
Checkin is 14.00 so you have to leave your bags with reception until then which is not a problem as you can relax by pool area and enjoy a bite to eat or cocktail.
The room still looks the same from my last visit but they are well maintained and cleaned every day. Bed was large, clean and comfortable. Large flat screen tv , microwave , fridge , kettle and sink should you want to cook. The bathroom is a little small in comparison to the rest of the room, no tub , just a shower and the sink area has limited space for your toiletries.
The view towards the sea is the best, it's great to open the curtains every morning and see the sea and the blue sky, it's a real tonic and puts you in a great mood.
Breakfast was still very good but a lot busier Saturday and Sunday so get down earlier. Cooked to order eggs or omelets were a super start to the day along with the numerous options of cooked and cold items to choose from. You had to wear a face covering while in the dining area and while moving around. Service was always very good, the staff always charming and happy to assist.
Happy hour is a great choice between 5-7 everyday and always a different cocktail to choose from or wine or beer.
The location is second to none, walking distance to plenty of bars and restaurants, there's 2 supermarkets nearby and a small Pick n Pay opposite in the BP garage. The area is totally safe and it was fabulous to see the sunset every night at Sea Point right on your doorstep. There was a lot of local people taking advantage of the great welcome back rates and staying on a mini break supporting the hotel . Until next time !¬
The President was my Cape Town home again for 7 nights and it was a pleasure to be back. The hotel has been modernised during lock down and some lovely new photos adorn the rooms and corridors depicting the local areas and wildlife, all very welcoming.
Checkin is 14.00 so you have to leave your bags with reception until then which is not a problem as you can relax by pool area and enjoy a bite to eat or cocktail.
The room still looks the same from my last visit but they are well maintained and cleaned every day. Bed was large, clean and comfortable. Large flat screen tv , microwave , fridge , kettle and sink should you want to cook. The bathroom is a little small in comparison to the rest of the room, no tub , just a shower and the sink area has limited space for your toiletries.
The view towards the sea is the best, it's great to open the curtains every morning and see the sea and the blue sky, it's a real tonic and puts you in a great mood.
Breakfast was still very good but a lot busier Saturday and Sunday so get down earlier. Cooked to order eggs or omelets were a super start to the day along with the numerous options of cooked and cold items to choose from. You had to wear a face covering while in the dining area and while moving around. Service was always very good, the staff always charming and happy to assist.
Happy hour is a great choice between 5-7 everyday and always a different cocktail to choose from or wine or beer.
The location is second to none, walking distance to plenty of bars and restaurants, there's 2 supermarkets nearby and a small Pick n Pay opposite in the BP garage. The area is totally safe and it was fabulous to see the sunset every night at Sea Point right on your doorstep. There was a lot of local people taking advantage of the great welcome back rates and staying on a mini break supporting the hotel . Until next time !¬
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Date of stay: January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Desmond O'Connor, General Manager at The President Hotel
Responded Feb 23, 2022
Dear UncleDom Thank you for writing this beautiful review about your stay with us. Exceeding guest expectations is what we are set out to do. I am so delighted to know that you had such a great time while staying with us again I wish you could have stayed a little bit longer. Looking forward to hosting you again soon. Best regards Desmond GM
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The President Hotel was one of the hotels I've always wanted to visit and it met every expectation from the time we entered to departure. We were treated respectfully and with great care. One of the main reasons we chose the hotel was because I've always wanted to experience the awesome buffet breakfast I always heard so much about. Sadly Covid restrictions didn't allow for it but the breakfast was still banging. Well done!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jessica Onaran, Owner at The President Hotel
Responded Aug 25, 2020
Thanks Colleen and we will let you know if the buffet style breakfast makes a comeback post Covid :-)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveler reviews.
Not are the rooms exactly as described, the staff are super friendly, accommodating and the hotel is based in the perfect location. There was hand sanitizer everywhere which I was super impressed about, especially during this time of living in a global pandemic. In addition, the hotel not only had easy access to the promenade, but is just down the road from many restaurants, shops and attractions. Great experience all round.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Desmond O'Connor, General Manager at The President Hotel
Responded Apr 20, 2021
Dear Marysayegh09 Thank you for taking the time to post this review and your great comments. My team and I are delighted that you enjoyed your stay here with us and look forward to your next visit and may it be soon. Kind regards Desmond GM
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The moment you step through the door you are greeted by the friendly staff, the room was spotless and very comfortable. There were sanitising stations everywhere and with easy access
The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. A really great experience
The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. A really great experience
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Desmond O'Connor, General Manager at The President Hotel
Responded Oct 25, 2021
Dear Marils297 Thank you for writing a review about your stay with us. Exceeding guest expectations is what we are set out to do. I am so delighted to know that you had such a great time while staying with us, I wish you could have stayed a little bit longer. Be assured I have already congratulated the staff on making your stay such a memorable one. Looking forward to hosting you again soon. Best regards Desmond GM
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Positives: very helpful and cheerful staff; a good buffet breakfast; good menus; clean and spacious room (though be aware no conditioner is supplied, just shampoo/conditioner); a pool with potential.
Negatives: the pool area is crowded with sun loungers very close together. It is especially crowded at weekends when the hotel is open to non-residents. Also, part of the area near the pool is sectioned off as a children's play area and this was used for children's parties several times a week during our 10 day stay.
A major problem: although there is a sign at the entrance to the pool which advises that guests are not allowed to reserve sun loungers, this is not enforced by management. Early every morning, several loungers were reserved and these were often not used until late morning. (One person even reserved and used two loungers - one in the sun and one in the shade - and said she had been given permission to do this by management as compensation for 'trouble' she had had. ) After we mentioned the lounger reservation problem to staff, a notice was placed in rooms reminding guests not to reserve loungers. This made absolutely no difference and once again it was not followed up by management so was a complete waste of time and paper.
The notice also stated that armbands were to be worn at all times (on a couple of days when collecting towels we had been handed paper bands to wear on our wrists, presumably as proof we were residents) and that glassware should not be used in the pool area. Following this, armbands were never offered during the rest of our stay and glassware was frequently delivered to guests around the pool. This is clearly poor and ineffective management. Decide what experience you want to provide for your guests and then make sure you enforce the rules you set.
We stayed here a few years ago had been planning to return next January; we had already made an enquiry about prices for next year when we arrived. However, because of the poor situation with pool management we will not be returning and have already booked elsewhere.
Negatives: the pool area is crowded with sun loungers very close together. It is especially crowded at weekends when the hotel is open to non-residents. Also, part of the area near the pool is sectioned off as a children's play area and this was used for children's parties several times a week during our 10 day stay.
A major problem: although there is a sign at the entrance to the pool which advises that guests are not allowed to reserve sun loungers, this is not enforced by management. Early every morning, several loungers were reserved and these were often not used until late morning. (One person even reserved and used two loungers - one in the sun and one in the shade - and said she had been given permission to do this by management as compensation for 'trouble' she had had. ) After we mentioned the lounger reservation problem to staff, a notice was placed in rooms reminding guests not to reserve loungers. This made absolutely no difference and once again it was not followed up by management so was a complete waste of time and paper.
The notice also stated that armbands were to be worn at all times (on a couple of days when collecting towels we had been handed paper bands to wear on our wrists, presumably as proof we were residents) and that glassware should not be used in the pool area. Following this, armbands were never offered during the rest of our stay and glassware was frequently delivered to guests around the pool. This is clearly poor and ineffective management. Decide what experience you want to provide for your guests and then make sure you enforce the rules you set.
We stayed here a few years ago had been planning to return next January; we had already made an enquiry about prices for next year when we arrived. However, because of the poor situation with pool management we will not be returning and have already booked elsewhere.
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Date of stay: February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Desmond O'Connor, General Manager at The President Hotel
Responded Feb 26, 2023
Dear Thorpethorpe, Thank you for choosing to use the President Hotel as your place of home whilst visiting our city. I have read your review and must admit it saddened me. Please be assured that it is not the standard in which we pride ourselves, and I am sure what you are accustomed to. Your comments have therefore been distributed to the entire team here and will be addressed accordingly and measures are being put into place to ensure that we lift the bar once more. We are constantly aiming to ensure that our guests experience the very finest service and standards at the President Hotel and with this in mind please accept my sincere apologies on behalf of my team and I. Kind regards Desmond GM
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The hotel and staff was quite nice except that upon checking in our room was flooded with the water from the faulty fridge meaning the room inspection was not done prior to our arrival. The fridge was not sorted until we checked out but rather a blue towel was put in front of the fridge to trap the water from flowing all over the floor. We were promised the fridge will be fixed or replaced and that never happened until we left and this is after spending 4 days in the hotel
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Jessica Onaran, Guest Services / Front Office at The President Hotel
Responded Mar 17, 2021
Dear Matome Thank you for choosing to use the President Hotel as your place of home whilst visiting our city. I have read your review and must admit it saddened me. Please be assured that it is not the standard in which we pride ourselves, and I am sure what you are accustomed to. Your comments have therefore been distributed to the entire team here and will be addressed accordingly and measures are being put into place to ensure that we lift the bar once more. We are constantly aiming to ensure that our guests experience the very finest service and standards at the President Hotel and with this in mind please accept my sincere apologies on behalf of my team and I. Kind regards Desmond GM
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I stayed at The President Hotel for 4 days in Feb 2021, as I had some business and family visits there. The location which provides sunny windless days, and a lovely pool W a great sea view, makes this hotel very unique. Few good 4 star hotels in CT, or even in S Africa, have this kind of location. You are also a 1 minutes walk away from the hip side of Sea Point and great cafes restaurants and boutiques shops and useful shops.
The Hotel itself is contemporary and breezy in design, the rooms have great amenities, comfy beds and quality finishes. The hotel food was particularly good too. I would definitely try to get a sea facing room as you get that lovely fresh sea smell every evening and morning as well as the views. This is also a family friendly hotel - quite a rare thing in a city these days. They have the nicest shallow pool for the kids and great pizzas and food can be ordered poolside. I saw so many happy families as well as single travellers having a great time.
Well I highly recommend this hotel for al of the above and currently great specials are running too I believe. .
The Hotel itself is contemporary and breezy in design, the rooms have great amenities, comfy beds and quality finishes. The hotel food was particularly good too. I would definitely try to get a sea facing room as you get that lovely fresh sea smell every evening and morning as well as the views. This is also a family friendly hotel - quite a rare thing in a city these days. They have the nicest shallow pool for the kids and great pizzas and food can be ordered poolside. I saw so many happy families as well as single travellers having a great time.
Well I highly recommend this hotel for al of the above and currently great specials are running too I believe. .
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Desmond O'Connor, General Manager at The President Hotel
Responded Feb 16, 2021
Dear Melissa C Thank you for writing a review about your recent stay. It is always music to my ears to hear that we exceeded your expectations. We look forward to welcoming you again soon. Best Regards, Desmond GM
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Everything went according to plan and the staff were very friendly and professional. Food was excellent and especially enjoyed the wood fired pizzas. Location was convenient for walks on the esplanade and we felt very safe in the area and also found the area very clean and organised.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Desmond O'Connor, General Manager at The President Hotel
Responded Mar 18, 2022
Dear Voyage538668 Thank you for writing a review about your recent stay. It is always music to my ears to hear that we exceeded your expectations. We look forward to welcoming you again soon. Best Regards, Desmond GM
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A very disappointing experience overall, and an average grading of 3/5 just gets there because of the friendly staff! The room was large, but in need of attention and rather tired. The hotel facilities including the pool and gym area also need upgrading...the pool deckchairs are a nightmare, and both the gym and pool need regular cleaning; the pool in particular. The hotel is a hub for BA staff and therefore has a transient feel to it, as BA staff seem to rule the roost and take over the pool area, when it is not taken over by screaming children, who have hired it out for birthday parties...the pool area is not really useable on a weekend, when there seems to be one pool party after another. Staff are really friendly and will do anything for you, but are so unorganised, with a lack of leadership overseeing and prioritising procedures; herding cats comes to mind!! Breakfast at the hotel provides a variety of options and food in general is good...when and if you get it! Basically this is a stop-over hotel for one night if you are travelling on from Cape Town or returning before flying out, as I would definitely not recommend for several nights. The position is excellent, being a couple of minutes from the beach, promenade, restaurants and a variety of shops. Disappointing!
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Date of stay: February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Nikki Vardan, Other at The President Hotel
Responded Feb 15, 2023
Dear REBassett Thank you for taking the time to post this review and the feedback provided. I have read your review and have noted the glitches you experienced whilst being here. These have been shared with the team to address where needed. At the same time we are glad to note you enjoyed the friendly staff, location and food, I trust that the rest of your stay was good and hope to see you back here soon again. Kind regards Nikki Vardan Hotel Manager
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Booked what was called a 'luxury' room. Room we were given was tiny, missing furniture (pedestals next to the bed). The bathroom was missing hand soap, which ended up being due to mis-labelled items. There were no plug points to charge our phones next to the bed. The one USB point on the wall by the desk was not working, so could not charge our phones. Also found a fingernail on the floor. By 9pm that evening after a back and forth with reception the situation had not been resolved and I had to request a new room from the manager on duty.
Was given a new room which turned out to be an upgrade. However, the next day, once housekeeping had come through I realised they had replaced two water bottles with one, despite two people staying in the room, plus tea, coffee and sweeteners were not replaced. I had to follow up with housekeeping. I also requested an iron and ironing board and was given a cracked and leaking iron. The floor in the room was still dirty after housekeeping had come each day. Not sure what they do exactly...
Overall, the first night at the hotel was a disaster and ruined our day and night. The upgraded room was better but still lacking. The room price per night compared to what was given initially made no sense, to call it a 'luxury' room is a joke Would probably never return to this hotel...
Was given a new room which turned out to be an upgrade. However, the next day, once housekeeping had come through I realised they had replaced two water bottles with one, despite two people staying in the room, plus tea, coffee and sweeteners were not replaced. I had to follow up with housekeeping. I also requested an iron and ironing board and was given a cracked and leaking iron. The floor in the room was still dirty after housekeeping had come each day. Not sure what they do exactly...
Overall, the first night at the hotel was a disaster and ruined our day and night. The upgraded room was better but still lacking. The room price per night compared to what was given initially made no sense, to call it a 'luxury' room is a joke Would probably never return to this hotel...
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Date of stay: December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Desmond O'Connor, General Manager at The President Hotel
Responded Dec 28, 2020
Dear RowanS249 Thank you for choosing to use the President Hotel as your place of home whilst visiting our city. I have read your survey and must admit it saddened me. Please be assured that it is not the standard in which we pride ourselves, and I am sure what you are accustomed to. Your comments have therefore been distributed to the entire team here and will be addressed accordingly and measures are being put into place to ensure that we lift the bar once more. We are constantly aiming to ensure that our guests experience the very finest service and standards at the President Hotel and with this in mind please accept my sincere apologies on behalf of my team and I. Kind regards Desmond GM
Read more
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Not in the room I was, I am sorry.
The hotel has plugs for European plugs, but only one in the room. Other plugs are specific for SA. I recommend to get cheap ones from Amazon. Not sure if the hotel has plugs for guests to borrow.
as long as you pay with a credit card you will be covered, but maybe not through an email, go direct to the website to pay, never click a link in an email if you are even slightly unsure.
Booked through the hotel own website and had to pay before via secure link as well.
Yes there is a small daily fee.
…
"Don’t wear any jewlery . Nothing gold or shiny, even fake. Put everything in the safe, and be alert as it can be dangerous."Read full review
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PRICE RANGE
$86 - $128 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
protea hotel bantry bay, protea hotel president
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Protea Hotel President
LOCATION
South AfricaWestern CapeCape TownBantry Bay
NUMBER OF ROOMS
349
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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