Compass House Boutique Hotel

The pool overlooking the ocean was a highlight. We spent time swimming and napping on the outdoor beds, and the honest bar had a huge selection. Snacks came at 3pm, including a carrot cake I especially loved, then more at 5pm, with chips and salsa. Cookies, coffee, tea, and candy were available all day. Breakfast was great too, especially the omelette, and there was an a la carte option. We came to The Compass House for our honeymoon and were welcomed warmly by Jarrod, who was always going above and beyond. He suggested restaurants and sunset spots, and even put together a breakfast basket for our flight. Our modern room had great technology, including a wall iPad connected to the room and ceiling speakers for music. The hotel is well located and we felt safe. We could easily reach the Sea Point Promenade and Mojo Market, and even walked to Camps Bay. It exceeded our expectations, and we’d love to return on our next visit.

The neighborhood is quiet, though a little out of the way. Our room had a private balcony, and we could see and hear the ocean. Breakfast cooked to order was included, and the staff were top notch. We came back one afternoon to shower and nap before dinner. When we returned later, the bed had been remade and fresh towels were there.

We didn’t fly for 12 hours to find ourselves facing a crane. Work blocked the view, and nobody had warned us. The noise was awful, even on Saturday, and we were hugely disappointed. We left after the director promised a 30% refund, or 100 if the room was re-rented. In the end, he went back on his word and refused even the 30%. For a room costing 600 euros a night, that’s not normal. We’re very disappointed.

We weren’t told there’d be construction or a crane blocking much of the view. It even felt as if the crane might come into the room. The noise in the morning made it impossible to rest, and at breakfast we could barely hear each other. A disaster, even though the service was kind.