SAFARI.COM recently attended the opening of the refurbished St James Guesthouses in Kalk Bay, hosted by the Rovos Rail family. Suppliers, trade partners, and industry friends gathered at the Manor to celebrate the milestone—and we experienced it all firsthand.
For discerning travelers in search of a curated, timeless pre- or post-safari experience, few pairings capture the spirit of slow travel and heritage elegance quite like Rovos Rail and its St James Guesthouses in Cape Town.
These two offerings, deeply rooted in Southern Africa’s story of grandeur and understated luxury, are more than just a stop on an itinerary—they are destinations in themselves.
Two of our team were invited to stay overnight at the St James Manor: Antoinette van Heerden stayed in Findlay, a superior suite, and Nikita Gallant was in Boyes, a deluxe suite. Both rooms—as is everything at the guesthouses—are gorgeous, with a thoughtful attention to detail.
Breakfast is a delicious blend of buffet and à la carte—fresh fruits, pastries, cheeses, and cold meats alongside cooked options such as eggs benedict.
Three generations of the Rovos Rail family attended the relaunch—Rohan Vos and Anthea Vos, his wife; their daughter Tiffany Vos-Thane, Rovos Rail COO; and her daughter. It was a warm reminder of the heart behind the brand.
Where Slow Travel Meets Iconic Style
Rovos Rail, among the most luxurious trains in the world, is renowned for its stately journeys through Southern Africa, such as from Pretoria to Victoria Falls, and from Walvis Bay in Namibia to Pretoria, itineraries we have created with Rovos Rail so you can experience it for yourself.
Its polished wood carriages, tasteful décor, and attentive silver service bring a sense of romantic nostalgia. Rovos Rail trains traverse some of the most scenic landscapes on the continent—in a style that recalls the golden age of travel.
As their journey draws to a close (or begins), guests can move seamlessly into another world of elegance: the seaside enclave of St James and neighbouring Kalk Bay on the curve of False Bay in Cape Town. Here, St James Guesthouses overlook the vibrant fishing village and the shimmering Atlantic Ocean beyond, and the purple Hottentots Holland Mountains beyond that.
The trio of boutique accommodations offer a retreat for winding down in sophisticated comfort after a safari experience—or getting into the spirit of old world adventure before your journey into the hinterland, such as on our 7-day slow train from Cape Town to Durban.
SAFARI.COM has worked closely with Rovos Rail and St James Guesthouses to craft effortless journeys for you—our luxury train escape takes you from Pretoria to Cape Town, to end your seven-day trip at St James Manor. If time is not on your side, we offer a four-day sojourn between the two capital cities, too.
Our classic railway safari takes you deep into Southern Africa, stopping at Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park in Botswana, where you stay at Ngoma Safari Lodge.
We take care of all the details, from the big to the small, so your only job is enjoying your holiday.
Discovering the Coastal Charm of St James
Known as “millionaire’s mile” in years gone by, St James is enjoying something of a renaissance. Today, it’s one of the trendiest and most desirable coastal stretches in Cape Town. With its Mediterranean climate, colourful Victorian bathing boxes, and backdrop of mountains, the suburb is a distinctive mix of natural beauty, heritage, and lifestyle.
There is much to see and do, from dining to shopping, from culture and history to beaches and nature. And all of the Cape’s riches—Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Table Mountain, Cape Point, Chapman’s Peak Drive, world-class restaurants, nightlife, the Winelands—are there for you to enjoy.
The Guesthouses: An Invitation to Step Back in Time
Each of Rovos Rail’s three St James properties offers a unique expression of heritage luxury, ideal for couples, families, or private groups.
St James Manor
Over a century old, the Manor exudes old-world grandeur. A sweeping staircase, Persian rugs, and antique English and South African furnishings set the tone for its six suites. Each room is individually named after local historical figures. A secluded, wind-protected pool is set into the mountain—perfect for quiet relaxation.
St James Homestead
Originally built in 1870 and reborn under Rovos Rail’s stewardship, Homestead features a striking Cape Dutch façade, tiered gardens, and six sea-facing suites. The décor blends nostalgic seaside charm with vibrant modern touches, offering a warm, contemporary feel that remains true to the area’s legacy.
A Family Affair: Heritage Preserved with Heart
In the words of Rovos Rail COO Tiffany Vos-Thane, whose family has stewarded the St James properties for more than a decade:
“Rovos Rail celebrated its 35th anniversary last year, and at the end of [April], we’ll be celebrating our 36th. The St James Manor and the Homestead Villa have been part of our family business for about 16 years. St James Manor was originally built 145 years ago. My parents have invested a huge amount of time and effort into restoring and converting it into a guesthouse. It has operated as such since 2012.
“The Homestead Villa, about 100 metres from here, was originally built 155 years ago—and back then, it was a simple thatched-roof dwelling. We took it over and completely rebuilt it from the ground up. Today, it’s an exclusive-use villa.
“Many homes in St James are rich in history—not just architecturally, but also because of the families who have lived in them. As you walk through the houses, you’ll notice that each room has a unique name. These names are based on people who either lived in these homes or nearby.”
Why Book With SAFARI.COM?
SAFARI.COM offers bespoke access to Rovos Rail’s journeys and the elegant St James Guesthouses, thanks to longstanding partnerships and insider expertise. Whether you’re planning a grand safari circuit or a luxurious escape to the Cape, we curate each experience with care, authenticity, and an eye for timeless detail.
Begin your elegant journey—from rail to retreat—with Safari.com.
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Whether you’re drawn to our expertly curated itineraries or envision a bespoke adventure, our seasoned travel advisors are here to craft a safari tailored to your preferences, budget, and travel goals. Rest assured, we’ll be there for you before, during, and even after your safari, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Take the first step by emailing helpmeplan@safari.com, clicking on the WhatsApp button at the top of the page to start chatting now, or calling us toll-free at 1-888-SAFARIS (available in the U.S. and Canada).
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