Steenberg
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The History of The Steenberg Hotel
''At the dawning of the Cape, the swans rejoined, feeding in paradise at the foot of the Steenberg Mountains.' Steenberg celebrated its 320th anniversary in 2002 and has a fascinating lineage. The first owner of Steenberg, formally named Swaaneweide, was Catharina Ustings, a widow from Lubeck, Germany. Catharina is considered as one of the most daring and controversial figures ever to settle in the Cape. Catharina, or Tryn as she was fondly known, realised very soon after landing at the Cape in 1662 that the achievement of power in those tempestuous times was to marry or obtain property. She wedded Hans Ras, who died shortly after by being killed by a lion. Legend has it that she hunted the lion on horseback and shot it. She married a third time but was once again left widowed. This time, he was killed by marauding tribesmen. His successor was trampled underfoot by elephants. It was only after The Widow Ras took her fifth husband, Matthys Michelse that she approached the Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel for a portion of ground at the foot of the Ou Kaapse Weg (Old Cape Road). He agreed to lease 25 morgen to her in 1682. [Read more]This accommodation provider has taken action to address one or more issues (whether environmental, social or cultural) which will contribute positively to the long term viability of the destination and hence their site displays a Caring for the destination rating.
Detailed description of the Caring for the Destination Initiative:
For years the Steenberg hotel has been one of the most recognized hotels in Cape Town. It is placed in renovated historical buildings dating from 1682 which are declared National Monuments. Social awareness and the sustainable profitability are the hallmark of Steenberg Hotel. Here you'll be able to experience warm hospitality and superior standards of one of the leading boutique hotels in Southern Africa.
