Cape Town, South Africa is an amazing luxury travel destination. For those looking for a unique VIP experience, consider the new LABOTESSA hotel. Originally built in the early 1700’s, this amazing seven-room property is one of the oldest buildings anywhere in South Africa

The new hotel opened last month in Cape Town, South Africa. LABOTESSA is a 17th-century congressional church turned lifestyle hotel, in one of the oldest buildings in South Africa. LABOTESSA will be the only lifestyle hotel of its caliber to open in the city’s Central Business District. In addition, it’s the first hotel planned for the new LABOTESSA brand.



The seven room property is owned and designed by first-time hoteliers and childhood friends, Johan Du Plessis and Jan Fourie. After spending more than 15 years in the hospitality industry, Johan finally returned home to Cape Town to open the property.

Johan du Plessis, LABOTESSA Founder and Owner was quoted, “We are delighted to begin our foray into hotel ownership with one of South Africa’s oldest buildings. It’s really a true testament to the country’s rich history and heritage. LABOTESSA is a culmination of our affinity for exceptional design, relaxed hospitality, and our connection to the city of Cape Town.”

Johan’s childhood friend Jan felt the city needed unprecedented luxury in the city center. The South African founders were inspired by the opportunity to meld heritage and old-world elegance with visionary new world design.

Two unique elements include the hotel’s Governor Suite (one of Cape Town’s largest penthouses) and the first city outcrop of beloved local restaurant Starling’s on the hotel’s ground floor. Therefore, locals and guests alike can peruse the hotel’s Boutique at LABOTESSA. In addition, it is the first high-end fragrance boutique in South Africa that’s not a department store.

As mentioned, LABOTESSA is home to one of Cape Town’s largest presidential suites: The Governor Suite. The three-bedroom Governor Suite is named after Simon Van der Stel. He was the first Governor of the Cape. The massive 3,230 square-feet suite covers two floors with breathtaking views of Church Square, Signal Hill, plus Table Mountain.

The Governor Suite is a completely new build on the hotel’s top floor. It features distinctly modern touches such as a floating staircase. Plus find a private plunge pool looking out through the balcony’s glass walls.

Ideal for friends, families, and groups traveling together, the Governor Suite has a full kitchen equipped with SMEG appliances, a 10-person dining table and two lounge areas. The modern fireplace is flanked by a padded leather window seat, lending the hotel’s signature sense of comfort to the space. Lastly, in the bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms with freestanding bathtubs overlook the city of Cape Town.

Every room has direct elevator access and iconic views of Table Mountain. Rates will start at $340 USD per night for the signature suites and $2,508 for the Governor Suite.

Are you ready to vacation in incredible Cape Town, South Africa? Enjoy a VIP experience at the stunning LABOTESSA Hotel. The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your South African stay.

Photo: LABOTESSA