Inside, the public areas drip with opulence and precise sophistication. Expensive fabrics wrap around the plush furnishings opposite a crackling fireplace. Oriental urns, gold gilt-framed paintings and mirrors, and tassel-fringed accents are evidence of the local designer touch. The interiors are so ornate that it's almost like being in an aristocratic home rather than a hotel.

In fact, culinary aristocrats feel right at home here with organic produce and naturally inspired cuisine filling the menu. No meal is without the pomp and circumstance of fine china, spotless crystal, brushed-silver serving utensils and crisp linens. A full English breakfast is included in the rates and is not to be missed.

The sundeck features a diminutive plunge pool and padded lounge chairs overlooking Table Mountain and the distant bay. Nearby activities range from yacht charters to picnics along the shoreline. Fitness nuts can jog over to a nearby health club. Parking complete with valet service is available.

Air-conditioned accommodations are the creme de la creme of Cape Town abodes, furnished entirely with local artifacts and objets d'art that would make a curator go wild. Each suite is awash in vivid color palettes accented by natural light. Tile floors and painted brick walls are accented by area rugs, attractive artwork, fresh flowers and animal-print fabrics. Sitting areas are furnished with sofas or garden-view patios, and the traditional amenities such as safes, minibars, free wireless high-speed Internet, phones and TVs are in place. Baths are elaborate with separate soaking tubs and showers, heated towel racks and floors, and the expected bevy of toiletries.

The Moroccan Suite is most memorable for its North African artwork, although the Mogul Suite provides an attractive blend of modern decor and voluminous living space. A majestic four-poster bed, wrought-iron chandelier and Victorian soaking tub await in the Chinese Suite, perfect for unrelenting traditionalists. At inspection, the locally inspired Safari Suite was undergoing a makeover.

Room service operates during regular hours (although the flexible staff can arrange for 24-hour service), and pets are allowed with advance notice. For a personalized experience with plenty of frilly accoutrements, this mansion is certainly worth it.