Hermanus, South Africa
Renovated
2021
Price
$$$$
Rated for
Luxe Local DesignOutside the door
The house
The Royal PortfolioClifftop whale-watching outpost
Days center on the clifftop terrace over Walker Bay, watching migrating whales breach with drinks in hand as waves crash below.
What it’s good at
Remarkable
All-inclusive dining served anywhere, complimentary laundry, and staff who arrange candlelit baths and whale-spotting alerts.
Remarkable
Cliff-edge vantage points over Walker Bay for land-based whale watching, regional seafood, and direct Cliff Path access.
Notable
Eclectic beach-villa interiors styled with gilded mirrors, ostrich-feather lampshades, bold colors, and freestanding Victorian slipper baths.
What they say
Also in Condé Nast Traveler.
This sprawling cream-colored villa is perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the ocean, and the stunning vantage point is one of the hotel's finest features.
Somewhere quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Steps lead directly down to Kamma Bay and Voelklip Beach, with the scenic cliff path winding past toward Grotto Beach.
The rooms
Individually styled suites feature original South African art, eclectic antique furnishings, and deep Victorian slipper baths overlooking the bay or mountains.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
A dual-level swimming pool and infinity plunge pool sit on the cliff edge overlooking the crashing surf.
The spa
Three treatment rooms host aromatherapy, body wraps, and massages using South African skincare products.
Restaurant
Dining Room & Ocean Terrace
Fresh coastal seafood is served beneath crystal chandeliers in the dining room and out along the open ocean terrace.
How it began
Built in 1992 as the Biden family beach home, the coastal property was converted into a boutique retreat in 2003.
Good to know
Stay here
Birkenhead House
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Hermanus
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.