A colourful coastal escape: Tintswalo Summer House opens in Glencairn

Cape Town’s Southern Peninsula has welcomed a beautiful new addition with the opening of Tintswalo Summer House in the seaside village of Glencairn.
Tintswalo Summer House

The latest addition to the Tintswalo Collection brings together heritage charm, contemporary design, and relaxed coastal living in one of the city’s most scenic settings. Overlooking the sweeping views of False Bay, the newly restored boutique hotel offers a fresh take on seaside hospitality with warmth, character and style.

A historic landmark reimagined

Originally established in 1904 as the iconic Glencairn Southern Right Hotel, the property was once a celebrated destination known for its coastal elegance and rich history. After years of decline, Tintswalo acquired the building in 2014 and began the careful process of restoring the landmark while preserving its original spirit.

Today, the historic villa has been transformed into a vibrant boutique hotel dressed in Tintswalo’s signature pink, blending old-world charm with playful contemporary interiors.

A stay full of personality

Tintswalo Summer House features 12 individually styled guest suites, each designed with its own unique colour palette and personality. From the soft blush tones of Rosie to the tranquil blues of Bit of Blue and the lush greens of Verdant, every room tells its own story. Designed by Camlyn Johnston alongside her mother Lisa Goosen and grandmother Gaye Corbett, the interiors balance maximalist flair with comfort and warmth, creating spaces that feel both luxurious and inviting.

The hotel has already received recognition for its design excellence, earning a prestigious Scape Gold Key Award for luxury hospitality and guest experience.

A colourful coastal escape: Tintswalo Summer House opens in Glencairn 1

Relaxed coastal living

Beyond the suites, guests can settle into the easy rhythm of seaside living. The property features a striking swimming pool and sundeck, cosy lounge areas perfect for reading or afternoon tea, and the quirky Tini Martini Bar for sunset drinks.

The Summer House Eatery offers a relaxed yet elegant dining experience inspired by classic French bistros with a distinctly South African touch. With open-fire cooking at the heart of the menu, guests can enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, vibrant salads, and dishes celebrating local produce from across the Western Cape.

For something more casual, the adjoining Sports Bar remains a favourite among locals, serving comfort-food classics with sea views and vintage charm.

A colourful coastal escape: Tintswalo Summer House opens in Glencairn 2

The perfect southern peninsula escape

Perfectly positioned along Cape Town’s scenic coastline, Tintswalo Summer House offers guests easy access to beaches, tidal pools, hiking trails and day trips towards Cape Point. Whether visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer coastal escape, the hotel captures the laid-back beauty and charm that make the Southern Peninsula so special.

With its rich history, vibrant interiors, and welcoming atmosphere, Tintswalo Summer House feels less like a hotel and more like a stylish seaside home away from home.

Discover more about Tintswalo Summer House in Private Edition issue 71.

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