This property, in a hilltop residential area that appeals to film crews, is a funky, rambling yellow and white mansion fronted by a plunge pool and small sundeck. This restored Victorian house brings with it a sense of local history and urban flair despite its low-key atmosphere. Reception isn't much, and breakfast in the back room—hot on request—is the extent of food service.
As this is a bed-and-breakfast, the public facilities are rather limited, but there is plenty of space for relaxing with a cup of tea or gazing at the mountain or bay in the distance. A so-called charcoal swimming pool is perfect for steamy summer days.
Guest rooms ramble up five stories of hallways covered with yellow and white sisal flooring. Eclectic and rambling, each room has its own theme, but all provide ceiling fans or air-conditioning, heaters, phones, TVs, minibars and coffeemakers. Some rooms have full baths with soaking tubs, others only showers. One even features musical scores as wallpaper.
The sundeck above the Roof Room (10) on the fifth floor is the coveted spot for film crews to unwind in the evening. The slanting windows behind the twin beds in this room provide glimpses of the night sky, though the low ceiling in the shower invites a hit on the head. Sea Room (3) has a king bed and views of Signal Hill. The third-floor Victoria Suite (5) has a sitting room with a sofa bed and a private balcony with sea views, and the fourth-floor Africa Room (6) boasts a king bed, a balcony and a good ocean exposure. Room 1 is for businesspeople with its private entrance, art-nouveau desk and fax machine. All boast attractive antiques brimming with individual history that the owner will gladly recount.
Tourists appreciate the location, which is convenient enough to the city's sights without compromising peace and nature-filled views. Those desiring activity within minutes will be disappointed, however. Artsy types and individuals who want to take a breather from a standard hotel fare well here.
