Birkenhead House

With its exhilarating cliff-top position overlooking the whale-watching paradise of Walker Bay, Birkenhead House offers an immersive seaside setting like no other for those looking to retreat and recharge. Breezy beach house style is mixed with contemporary artwork and opulent furnishings to create an elegant and inviting environment. Eleven suites with either sea or mountain views offer comfort and luxury: balconies, underfloor heating and huge bathtubs allow guests to make the most of their stay. The spa, pool and gym offer the chance for indulgence, relaxation or exercise. Cliff and beach walks are an invigorating way to appreciate the great outdoors and numerous sporting and leisure activities are available in the area, from golf to shark-cage diving. Whale watching, for which Hermanus is famed, can be done from the hotel from June to November, with September the height of the season. After a sundowner overlooking the ocean, guests can enjoy fresh seafood and delicious international cuisine. From morning coffee and cake to hot chocolate beside the fire, there is always something delectable on offer. For families and those who seek a little more privacy, the self-contained Birkenhead Villa is a stylish alternative. Five suites have views of ocean or pool; all are luxuriously decorated in classic seaside white. The Villa has its own chef so meals are tailored to guests’ tastes. Children can play happily and safely in the garden or on the nearby beach while the town with its shops, galleries, markets and other attractions is close at hand.