Whale Route

Birkenhead House in Hermanus is a beach house that somehow manages to pull off five-star luxury. Its ideal location on a cliff top overlooking Walker Bay, Hermanus’ whale-watching hotspot, is arguably the best feature of this seaside retreat.

Located on a hilltop overlooking Walker Bay and forming part of a 1,700ha private fynbos reserve, Grootbos Forest Lodge is an all-inclusive experience. With highlights such as flower safaris, horse riding and whale watching on your doorstep, guests may find that they need a few days to do it justice. 

The Cape Floral Kingdom’s crowning glory is undoubtedly Grootbos Nature Reserve. It's home to 765 plant species – 100 of which are endangered and six of which are entirely new to mankind. The reserve also boasts the luxurious Grootbos Garden Lodge, a peaceful retreat amid ancient milkwood trees, surrounded by fynbos and overlooking the ocean.

With ocean front views to observe the Southern Right Whales, and its location in the whimsical seaside town of Hermanus, The Marine Hotel is the perfect refuge after an exciting day exploring the area. Superb whale-watching opportunities in winter and Blue Flag status beaches in summer will leave visitors with an assortment of activities to keep themselves entertained.

One Marine Drive is moments from mountain hikes and walks through the fynbos-covered nature reserves near Hermanus, with more than 1600 different plant species to admire. Birding is equally impressive in the area, but if it's whales you’re looking for, you’ve certainly come to the right place.

An unforgettable African adventure awaits at Grootbos Luxury Private Villas. Set in a luxury eco-reserve close to the southern tip of Africa and tucked between mountains, forest and the sea, Grootbos is the epitome of elegance. Soak in ocean vistas and the diverse fauna and flora of the Cape while staying in luxurious villas and leave feeling blissfully serene.