Alexandra Owens

Perched six floors above Cape Town’s renowned Zeitz MOCAA, the world’s largest museum dedicated to contemporary African art, The Silo Hotel is, in itself, a masterpiece. Housed in a historic, converted grain silo, award-winning architect Thomas Heatherwick transformed the raw concrete building into a landmark of industrial minimalism, complete with dazzling, prism-shaped windows. Today, it’s one of the city’s most popular cultural sites, as well as an in-demand luxury hotel.

Inside, every corner of The Silo Hotel—designed and curated by its owner, Liz Biden—celebrates local craftsmanship and art. Original photographs, prints, and paintings by aspiring and acclaimed African artists decorate both public spaces and rooms. Plush beds, a gourmet mini bar, and enormous bathrooms keep the rooms warm and cozy, and ensure the whole experience doesn’t feel like an actual night at the museum.

Guests who want to discover more about contemporary African art don’t have to limit themselves to Zeitz MOCAA; they can visit The Vault, an exclusive onsite gallery dedicated to an ever-changing roster of up-and-coming artists, or arrange a private guided tour of The Silo Hotel’s impressive collection.

Once the tallest structure in all of sub-Saharan Africa, The Silo Hotel still ranks as the highest building on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront—and the views of Table Mountain and Table Bay are just as epic. Head to The Silo Rooftop for a lap in the pool, a cocktail, and a sunset you’ll never forget.

Top Takeaways

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Rating: Five-Star

The Vibe: A wellness retreat that’s more glam than granola.

Food + Drink: Guests start every day with complimentary breakfast at The Willaston Bar, The Silo Hotel’s all-day dining venue. Next door, The Granary Café serves Sunday brunch and afternoon tea. The Silo Rooftop is the perfect spot for a pre-dinner snack and drink.

Amenities: Rooftop pool; Spa; Gym; Sauna; Private art gallery; Complimentary mini bar; and Free WiFi

What’s Nearby? Zeitz MOCAA, Table Mountain, Bo-Kaap, Camp’s Bay, and V&A Waterfront.

Any Personal Neighborhood Recs? Enlist the services of African Lynx, a luxury, multi-day touring company, to uncover Cape Town’s secrets.

Rooms: 28 across six categories. All rooms and suites are individually decorated with a distinctive color scheme, contemporary African art, and handcrafted furniture.

Pricing: Rooms start at $1,433/night

Closest Airport: Cape Town International Airport