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Birkenhead House
Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa · Independent · Grand Luxury



Perched on a clifftop above the whale-watching paradise of Walker Bay, Birkenhead House is an ultra-stylish sanctuary that blends Relais & Châteaux luxury with an intimate, beach-house spirit. Its eleven bespoke suites offer unparalleled views of the Atlantic, providing a glamorous home base for exploring South Africa's rugged coastline.
- 11 rooms
- Opened 2003
- Neighborhood: Voëlklip
- Rooms from 420 sq ft (39 m²)
About Birkenhead House
- The property occupies a site originally home to the 1950s-era Birkenhead Hotel, which was eventually demolished and replaced by private residences in the 1990s.
- Birkenhead House by The Royal Portfolio is a luxury hotel in Hermanus offering an intimate clifftop retreat on the Cape coast.
- Entry-level rooms start at 420 sq ft (39 m²).
History
The property occupies a site originally home to the 1950s-era Birkenhead Hotel, which was eventually demolished and replaced by private residences in the 1990s. The current boutique hotel was founded in 2003 by Liz Biden, who transformed the residences into a flagship of The Royal Portfolio collection. Today, it is recognized as a premier Relais & Châteaux address and a top destination for land-based whale watching.
The setting
2-minute walk to Voelklip Beach. Overlooks Walker Bay.
Experiences
- Whale watching by land, air or sea — Whale watching by land, air or sea. Seasonal: May to August (winter).
- Ocean excursion to see the Marine Big Five — An ocean excursion to see the Marine Big Five.
- Sea kayaking — Sea kayaking from the old harbour of Hermanus.
- Wine tasting — Wine tasting in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.
- Birdwatching — Birdwatching from a hide at an inland estuary.
- Fernkloof Nature Reserve hiking — Explore the floral kingdom by hiking the trails of the Fernkloof Nature Reserve.
Amenities
- Full-service spa with massage and reflexology treatments
- Infinity pool and plunge pools with Walker Bay views
- World-class restaurant featuring local seafood and regional wines
- Fitness center and gym facilities
- Direct access to coastal hiking trails and beaches
- Complimentary bicycle rentals for exploring Hermanus
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More hotels in Hermanus
- The Marine — Liz McGrath · Core Luxury
- Arabella Hotel, Golf & Spa — Southern Sun · Accessible Luxury