Recycled bicycles - Cape Town’s iconic hotel now offers a unique new way to make holiday memories
This summer, Cape Town holidays will become even more exciting as the city’s iconic Cape Grace hotel now offers guests the singular experience of exploring the Mother City on Vélosophy RE:CYCLE bicycles.
Swedish lifestyle brand Vélosophy has partnered with Nespresso to use aluminium recycled from Nespresso coffee capsules in the manufacturing of their limited edition RE:CYCLE bicycles. Nespresso is committed to their conviction that coffee can be a force for good, which they pursue with their global recycling practices and by empowering farmers through the sustainable quality agricultural practices at the heart of the Nespresso AAA Sustainable Quality™ Programme. All Nespresso Original capsules are made using at least 80% recycled aluminium and most Vertuo capsules are made using at least 85% recycled aluminium, as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and a circular economy.
Partnering with Nespresso in this commitment, Vélosophy has crafted their RE:CYCLE bicycles with 95% recycled aluminium in a perfect marriage of sustainability and design. The vivid colour of the bicycle frame is inspired by Nespresso’s “Ice Leggero”, while the bell is modelled on the iconic shape of the Vertuo capsule. The steam-bended oak carrier basket includes two cup holders, for Nespresso-on-the go.
Cape Grace proudly leads the way as the first partner hotel in South Africa to offer this one-of-a-kind guest experience. Known for championing sustainability, Cape Grace seamlessly integrates eco-friendly practices into its daily operations and community partnerships. Their commitment to the planet was further recognised in 2024 when they earned the prestigious Green Key certification, placing them among an elite group of South African hotels celebrated for their excellence in environmental responsibility and sustainable tourism.
This 2024 December holiday season, guests can explore Cape Grace’s stunning surroundings with a fleet of 10 uniquely named bicycles—Grace, Two Oceans, Seal, Mermaid, Penguin, Big Wheel, Speedy, Scuba, Sharkie, and Breeze—offering a fun and eco-conscious way to discover the beauty of the Cape.
Guests will be introduced to this exciting service at check-in and can reserve bicycles for their adventures through the concierge or front desk. Each booking includes a helmet for safety, a detailed map for navigation, and secure chains and locks—perfect for exploring at their own pace and making spontaneous stops along the way.
Before heading out, guests will complete a quick indemnity form and provide a contact number for seamless communication and peace of mind during their journey. For safety, the bicycles are to be returned before sunset each day. All bicycles and helmets are meticulously cleaned and sanitized after each use, offering guests the ultimate combination of convenience, comfort, and care.
This is simply the latest addition to Cape Grace’s full-venue partnership with Nespresso.
“Making sure that our guests have a flawless experience is our primary concern. I see our partnership with Nespresso Professional as an investment,”
says Cape Grace Hotel Manager Leon Meyer.
“We use Nespresso in our breakfast service and in-room. We have an Aguila 220 in the breakfast area and a Zenius in every room. This frees my team up to do exactly what they’re supposed to be doing – curating those special moments with our guests. When time is of such essence, it allows us not to have to worry about coffee. It’s all taken care of through the partnership.”
Adds Stacey Hopkins, Director of Sales and Marketing at Cape Grace:
“Sustainability is one of the key Fairmont Hotels & Resorts pillars. With a long-term partner like Nespresso Professional, we can make a difference in the environment we live and operate in. The Vélosophy bikes are a great example of that.”
Together, Cape Grace, Nespresso, and Vélosophy RE:CYCLE demonstrate that even the tiniest act, such as recycling a coffee capsule, can kickstart a powerful ripple of reinvention. From capsule to creation, the journey is Endlessly Recyclable. Infinitely Beautiful.
