BY Mabuyane Mabuza
Nestled in the heart of Cape Town city centre, the Gorgeous George hotel stands tall and regal on St. George’s Mall. It’s a grand old building, with a long history stretching back to the early 1900s. Once a department store, it’s been transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, with a style that blends the old with the new.
The lobby is a sight to behold: high ceilings, polished concrete floors, and a spiral staircase leading up to the upper floors. A grand piano stands in one corner, its polished wood gleaming under the soft lighting. But it’s the collection of art that really catches the eye. The hotel strongly emphasizes local artists, and the lobby is filled with eye-catching paintings, sculptures and installations.
The rooms are just as impressive, each one designed to be unique. The interiors are sleek and modern, with wood panelling and plush furnishings. Big windows let in plenty of light, and some of the rooms have balconies with stunning views of the city below.
But it’s the rooftop that really steals the show. The Gorgeous George boasts one of the best rooftop bars in Cape Town, with sweeping views out over the city and Table Mountain looming in the distance. As the sun goes down, the bar fills up with locals and tourists alike, all clamouring for a taste of the hotel’s signature cocktails.
But beyond the Cape Town city centre’s vibrant surroundings, what sets the Gorgeous George apart is its commitment to sustainability. The hotel has implemented a number of eco-friendly initiatives, from energy-efficient lighting to a rainwater harvesting system. It’s a welcome reminder that even the most luxurious of spaces can be designed with the planet in mind.
Gorgeous George is a true gem of Cape Town’s hospitality scene. With its perfect blend of style, luxury and sustainability, it’s a hotel that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to spend a night there.
With Toyota’s commitment to sustainability, this choice of venue for the launch of their new Urban Cruiser was on point.
