September was a bumper month as far as road trips go. I’m not sure I’ve ever had so many within one month, along with day trips here and there. Not that I’m complaining mind you! I absolutely adore road trips and discovering little hidden gems and interesting people on our travels. There is definitely no shortage of either of those in South Africa.

But sometimes, a staycation in your hometown can be just as much fun. After living in the gorgeous Mother City for over 12 years, I’m still discovering exciting new places and spaces. Some have been around for many years and sometimes I wonder what took me so long to visit them, while others pop up all over the place quite regularly. It’s no wonder that most of our family from Port Elizabeth have made the move to Cape Town over the years. But I digress …

Earlier this year, I entered a competition to win a two night stay at the uber-chic and stylish BLISS Boutique Hotel and promptly forgot about it. To my great surprise and delight, I was chosen as the lucky winner! I’ve been entering competitions for over twenty years (yikes, that makes me sound ancient!), but I still get a thrill when I hear that I’ve won. It’s the small things in life after all …

My birthday was coming up soon and I love going away to celebrate. This year, however, the celebrations would be in Cape Town – time for a staycation! It’s actually the perfect getaway since you don’t have far to drive, you get to experience a new place to stay and you already know what there is to see and do. Plus, you can always nip back home if you’ve left something really important behind.

After the drive that took all of about 20 minutes from our home, we entered another world once we walked through the big, bright yellow door. The 5* BLISS Boutique Hotel offers a tranquil oasis in the beach side suburb of Sunset Beach.

Location, location, location! Gloriously uninterrupted views of iconic Table Mountain, Table Bay, Robben Island and the Atlantic Ocean, along with luxury accommodation surrounded by natural fynbos and a private pathway to the beach make this the ideal place to relax and unwind. And the perfect place to celebrate special occasions such as birthdays and anniversaries.

BLISS offers secure on site parking and once we were welcomed by the lovely receptionist at check in, we were shown to our Superior Room with gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain.

Located on the second floor, we were thrilled to discover our own private outdoor deck where we could laze away with a drink or a book, or simply marvel at the breathtaking views before us. The calming sound of the ocean gently lapping on the shore was heavenly.

The decor is modern and vibrant and each room or suite offers a variety of luxuries and services. The Queen bed is topped with comfy cushions, silk pillows and luxurious Egyptian Cotton linen. And if that still isn’t enough for you, you can choose from a selection of pillows from their Pillow Menu. The evening turn-down service includes a cosy fleece robe and slippers that are laid out for you. The sleek, modern en-suite bathroom has a luxurious shower with state-of-the-art fixtures and a full set of Bliss toiletries. Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in your room and around the hotel. And if you really feel the need to turn on the telly, there is a 40 inch High Definition TV, with a DSTV decoder and a full bouquet of channels with a separate speaker system.

After checking out the restaurant, bar area as well as the amazing rooftop terrace (the views from up there are truly breathtaking!), we enjoyed a sunset stroll on the beach before heading back to the bar for their two-for-one cocktail happy hour special.

Wow! They know how to make a mean Mojito! What a pleasure it was to laze in the hammock-chair on the large outdoor deck situated beside the bar and restaurant with a glass of wine in hand while waiting for the twinkling lights of the city centre to come alight. Pure bliss!

I was looking forward to a delicious dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, Beach + Bites, where they offer contemporary fine dining. Al fresco dining on the rooftop terrace was out of the question as the wind was blowing by then, but it was cosy and warm inside. The menu isn’t large but there is something for everyone. Hubby opted for the Spice Crusted Beef Fillet served with a Carrot Purée while I had the Mushroom Risotto. It was perfectly cooked and creamy with a tasty hint of Parmesan cheese – a very good choice for a cold winter’s eve.

I awoke on my birthday to a beautifully sunny winter’s day with temperatures in the mid-twenties – thank goodness I packed a summer dress! A swim in the solar heated pool would’ve been amazing but the water wasn’t quite warm enough for me.

Hubby and I enjoyed a deliciously lazy breakfast while lingering over coffee. Tucking into my Smoked Salmon scrambled eggs with Avocado and Creme Fraiche and watching the stunning ocean and mountain views, it was a lovely way to start my birthday.

We had arranged to celebrate with family and friends at Vergenoegd Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, just off the N2 highway. They have a weekly Saturday market that is perfect for adults and kids alike.

Loads of yummy food to enjoy, a variety of wines, bubbly and craft beer, live music as well as the ever-popular Indian Runner Ducks that parade around for the crowds. Entertainment is provided for the kids too. Check out their website for full details.

After spending a few happy hours in the sun chatting and drinking bubbly, it was time to say goodbye and head back to BLISS for another night of luxury – yes please! One thing that struck me from the moment we arrived at BLISS that Friday, was the friendly and attentive service we received from everyone at the hotel.

We thoroughly enjoyed the tranquility and luxury of BLISS, as well as the stellar service, views and delicious food. I would highly recommend that you add this stunning property to your staycation list. The Beach + Bites Restaurant and Bar are open to the public so give them a call to book lunch or dinner.

Take in the sunset views while sipping on their famous BLISS Martini from the rooftop terrace or viewing deck and see for yourself what BLISS is all about.

Better yet, call them to arrange your own staycation for that special occasion! I can’t wait to return to enjoy a few relaxing hours sipping on cool cocktails and taking in the spectacular views.

Please note ~ Our stay at BLISS Boutique Hotel was enjoyed as a prize that I won. BLISS Boutique Hotel kindly sponsored one dinner during our stay. All views and images are my own.