Parker Cottage

Parker Cottage really belies its name: certainly not a cottage by any stretch of the imagination, this grande dame of a residence offers three luxury, four mid-range and three budget rooms under its roof. But the word ‘cottage’ also implies an understated nature and that’s very much the charm of this place. Core staff Jameson and Tomas have been working here (under various owners) since 2009 and their commitment to the establishment really shows in the attention to detail.

This charming establishment is more than just a place to rest your head; it has a history as rich and diverse as the city itself. Parker Cottage was originally built in 1895 by John Parker, the first mayor of Greater Cape Town. It was designed as two separate houses, one for John Parker and his immediate family, and the other for his parents-in-law. Parker’s life story is a fascinating one – from a destitute arrival in Cape Town at the age of 15 to becoming a prominent architect and eventually the mayor of the city. His legacy lives on through the architectural practice run by his family.

Today at Parker Cottage you’ll find that it has masterfully retained the charm of the original building while incorporating all the modern amenities you’d expect at a four-star establishment. There’s a sensational breakfast, normally served outside on the stoep or in the garden on crisp white table cloths. There’s no buffet here: it’s table service with a massive selection of ‘specials’ (unusual breakfasts like their banana on toast) which are named after famous South Africans like Nelson Mandela and Saartje Baartman.
In terms of rooms, if you’ve the budget, go for the Fitzroy or Paterson Rooms: these are the quietest ones in the house and the largest: the Fitzroy has a garden view and the Paterson has its own courtyard.

In keeping with the history of the house, the owners haven’t installed a swimming pool and there is no off-street parking. Parker is situated in the pretty City Bowl village of Tamboerskloof which has two lovely cafes, Café Pukha and The Blue Café which offer lovely views of the mountain. It’s around the corner from the buzz and pizazz of Kloof Street with its bar, gallery and restaurant scene but quiet and relaxed inside.

Sustainability and Ethicality: Parker is 100% Black-owned. It’s one of the few heritage buildings in Cape Town that operates completely off-grid for water, electricity, and heating / cooling. Moreover, it proudly holds Fair Trade Accreditation, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and ethical responsibility and was the first guesthouse in the City Bowl to achieve this in 2010.

Children: They are happy to welcome children from the age of 9 upwards in the Family Suite but as the house has many antique pieces, it’s not really suitable for children under 9.

Mobility: There are five steps into the house from the garden and eight of the ten rooms are on the ground floor, many with flat walk-in showers. There are no other steps within the building.