There’s a certain charm to driving along the False Bay coastline with the mountains towering on one side, the sea shimmering on the other, and then, just as you hit the sleepy suburb of Glencairn, a familiar sight catches your eye.
To many Capetonians, the old Glencairn Hotel,has stood as a local icon for more than a century.
Perched at the foot of the mountain and overlooking the ocean, it has been a gathering place, a watering hole, and a quiet observer of changing times.
Originally established in 1904, the hotel was once a shining beacon of seaside elegance. It hosted dignitaries, prominent figures, and travellers eager to escape the city for the charms of the coast.
But like many grand dames of her era, the building fell into decline over the years, becoming more of a locals’ pub than a luxury destination.
By the time The Tintswalo Collection acquired the property in 2014, it was a shadow of its former self.
Now, a new chapter awaits this beloved building, promising to breathe fresh life into the area while honouring its past.
For over a decade, the Tintswalo team has conducted detailed research and careful planning, preserving the building’s heritage while envisioning a new purpose. Come December 2025, the revamped hotel will reopen as “Tintswalo Summer House”, a boutique luxury retreat that’s set to transform Glencairn’s hospitality landscape.
It joins the esteemed ranks of Tintswalo Atlantic and Tintswalo Boulders, known for their stunning locations and sophisticated design.
With just 12 individually designed guest suites, the new Summer House will blend timeless architecture with contemporary comfort. Each room is a nod to the past, yet firmly grounded in modern elegance, offering guests a serene and intimate escape from the hustle of city life.
At the heart of the new hotel will be the “Summer House Eatery”, open to both residents and visitors. Whether you’re popping in for a leisurely High Tea or a sunset dinner overlooking the bay, the restaurant promises an elevated dining experience in a relaxed, stylish setting.
The revitalisation of this iconic building not only restores its former glory but also signals a new era for Glencairn.
As a luxury destination, it will draw a new wave of visitors to the area, while remaining a proud symbol of the suburb’s heritage. For locals, it’s a transformation filled with nostalgia, a familiar landmark, reimagined with grace.
For visitors, it’s a chance to experience the quieter side of Cape Town, wrapped in history and elegance.
Travel
