Birkenhead House & Birkenhead Villa
Hermanus, South Africa
Birkenhead House
A short distance from Cape Town, set high on the magnificent Hermanus cliffs overlooking Walker Bay, is the stately Birkenhead House. This stunning residence is named after the HMS Birkenhead, once the largest iron ship of the Royal Navy it sank in Walker Bay in 1852. Since its inception Birkenhead House has demonstrated such incredible standards of luxury, service and dining that it has been consistently nationally and internationally acclaimed.
From arrival there is an overwhelming sense of privacy as the impressive cream steps lead down to an elegantly pillared interior, intimate restaurant and stylish lounge area with an inviting bar fully stocked with chilled local wines. A stunning terrace between the dining room and the shimmering ocean boasts a long, slim infinity pool flanked by wicker loungers. The bay, directly below, gives a sense of private ownership over the pristine beach.
This seaside retreat boasts eleven elegantly appointed studio suites, minimalist in styling simplicity with clever warm flourishes, exuding comfort and opulence with either expansive sea or mountains views. Each suite is spacious, airy and light with bohemian detail - some have balconies whereas others have verandas and private pools.
The spa adds a further dimension to this exquisite luxury, offering a wide variety of treatments including massage, reflexology and aromatherapy. Dining in the glass-fronted restaurant dazzles both the palate and the eyes, with al fresco alternatives in the privacy of the suite or under the romantic moonlight of the pool courtyard.
A wide range of activities awaits exploration, from world-class whale watching, to wine land excursions, golf courses, horse riding and beach or mountain ambles. At Birkenhead House the magnificence of the coastline is echoed completely by the splendour of the residence, undoubtedly providing even the most discerning traveller with an unrivalled regal experience.
Birkenhead Villa
In the enchanting provincial town of Hermanus, a short drive from Cape Town, lies Birkenhead Villa. It sits high on the cliff side overlooking the whale watchers paradise that is Walker Bay and is adjacent to, but separate from the renowned Birkenhead House. The location grants the pleasure of unspoilt views of the surrounding bay’s beauty and the Villa itself typifies the ultimate in luxury accommodation giving true meaning to opulent splendour.
Birkenhead Villa is the exclusive apex of seaside living, boasting only five studio suites all well appointed with breath taking views of the bay or the towering Overberg mountains. Each suite is extravagantly furnished, with many original artworks and rare maritime antiques adorning the walls, and options for a private balcony or garden. The villa provides a private chef to realise all culinary desires with dishes from around the world made with the freshest and finest local ingredients. The pool and exterior deck provide an outdoor haven for relaxation while exhibiting the extensive panoramas. For those craving complete relaxation, all senses may be indulged at the Birkenhead Spa, the Lavender room encompassing calmness and the Cinnamon room exuding the warmth of this spice.
This is the ideal location from which to explore Hermanus and surrounds with marine activities including dolphin and whale watching, deep-sea fishing, sea kayaking, scuba diving and shark-cage diving. If the land is preferred the pristine beaches and beauty of the mountain vistas invite scenic walks, with other activities that include quad biking, cycling, golf and excursions to nearby wine lands.
Whether sipping cocktails whilst watching the sun’s descent, immersing in the cool waters of the pool or indulging in an al fresco breakfast with the waves crashing at your feet, Birkenhead Villa affords a stunning beach side paradise with every comfort and luxury imaginable.
