One of the things that truly touches our hearts is how many familiar faces walk through our doors every year. Some guests arrive with a cheerful “We’re back!” before we even open the gate, and others message us months ahead to reserve their favourite room.
It’s a privilege… and also a question we ask ourselves often: why do so many guests return to Somerset View?
Let us share a little of what we’ve been up to, and what makes Somerset View feel like home for so many travellers looking for peaceful Cape Town accommodation with a personal touch — and that is exactly what we offer.
What Has Changed at Somerset View This Year?
After six wonderfully busy years, we realised the guest house needed a fresh start of its own. So we rolled up our sleeves and gave the entire place a makeover.
Fresh paint, refreshed finishes, brightened-up rooms… everything now feels lighter and more inviting. Guests who’ve returned recently often say, “It looks brand new!” And honestly, that makes all the effort worthwhile.
We like everything to feel clean, crisp and well cared for… the kind of place where you can sink into bed, look out over Somerset West, and instantly relax knowing you’re still close to Cape Town, but far enough to enjoy complete tranquillity.
What’s New on the Breakfast Menu?
One of the biggest little joys of running a guest house is breakfast. We always laugh because guests fall into two groups: the “I’m starving!” guests… and the “Just something light, please” guests.
So this year, we created a brand-new breakfast menu with options. There’s something hearty if you wake up hungry, something light if you’re easing into the day, and a few fresh favourites for the health-minded. It’s been a real hit so far, and we can’t wait for you to try it.
And of course, breakfast isn’t where the spoiling ends. If you’re staying in and feel like something comforting later in the day, just let us know… we’re always happy to prepare a home-cooked lunch or supper, exactly the way you like it. Many of our regulars say this is one of their favourite parts of staying with us.
Are There New Experiences for Guests to Enjoy?
Absolutely! This is something we’re really excited about.
We now offer personalised private tours, completely tailored to your interests. Some guests love beautiful coastal drives and ocean views, others enjoy a day of wine tasting, and some simply want a quiet outing filled with Cape Town charm. If you’re after something unforgettable… like swimming with the penguins or a scenic trip along the Garden Route, we’ll happily take you.
And if you feel like exploring even further, we can travel all the way to Limpopo or Mpumalanga for a longer adventure, or you can rent one of our vehicles (limited availability). Wherever you’d love to go, just tell us and we’ll arrange the rest!
What Makes Somerset View Feel Like Home?
We’ve asked our guests this many times, and the answers are often similar.
The sunsets… the stillness… the views… the rooms… the peace…
But more than anything, guests say it’s the feeling of being welcomed, really welcomed.
We love getting to know everyone who stays with us. We remember faces, stories, where you travelled last time, and even your favourite breakfast order. And we always do our best to make sure you have exactly what you’re hoping for… whether it’s a special meal, a preferred room setup, or a last-minute outing. That personal connection is what keeps people coming back, and it’s something we never take for granted.
What Makes Somerset View a Special Place to Return To? (From Us as Your Hosts)
For us, Somerset View is more than a guest house… it’s something we’ve poured our hearts and souls into. Every sunrise, every freshly made bed, every cup of coffee on the patio, every trip we take our guests on and every meal we cook… it all reflects the care and intention we put into creating a place where people can truly rest.
We pay attention to the small things because they matter to our guests. We take pride in keeping every corner peaceful, warm, and inviting. These are the moments that made us fall in love with this home, and they’re the same moments we love sharing with our guests.
If you’ve stayed with us before, you’ll know exactly what we mean. And if you haven’t yet, we’d be honoured to welcome you and show you the place we’ve lovingly built into a favourite return destination for so many.
Warmest regards,
Carl & Emsie
Your hosts at Somerset View Guest House













