Just beyond Cape Town lies a travelling route of soothing lagoons and flawless beaches just waiting to be explored. Fall in love with the wildlife – from the gentle giants of the sea, to the incredible animals on land. As you see South Africa by road, you'll soon discover why luxury Garden Route & Whale Coast Holidays are so popular!
‘Contemporary Beach House On a Cliff’
Perched atop a cliff overlooking Walker Bay, Birkenhead House offers eleven rooms across the three different houses that make up this beautiful, five star, boutique hotel. Although each room features a balcony, they each feature a unique decor and a different position for varying views of the mountains or sea.
From July till November each year, guests can enjoy views of the humpback whales just metres from the shore.
There are many activities to enjoy in Hermanus, including whale watching, shark cage diving, golf, horse riding on the beach, hiking, surfing, mussel picking and wine tasting at one of the local wine estates.
‘Outstanding Estate Panorama; Golfer’s Paradise’
Positioned on 613 hectares in the magnificent Garden Route, outside George, Fancourt is one of South Africa’s premier lifestyle estate with mountains, forests and the warm Indian Ocean in close proximity. 133 luxury rooms and suites, family facilities which include a Kids Club, three Gary Player designed golf courses, a Spa, are all offer for your enjoyment. The hotel also regards gastronomy highly, with the popular Henry White's restaurant offering creative and hearty cuisines in historic surroundings. Within easy reach is the opportunity to view the ‘big five’ as well further animal centres such as Birds of Eden, Monkeyland, Cango Ostrich Farm and Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre; further adventures by the ocean and in the air are also on your doorstep including whale watching, balloon adventures and hiking.
‘Award-Winning, Family Friendly Pristine Wilderness’
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve Hotel is in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom, in a great location for guests to enjoy both the pristine coastline that offers glimpses of the Marine Big 5 and fantastic explorations of the surrounded forests and hiking trails. Residences at Grootbos are located in one of three areas. There are two 5-star lodges, the Garden Lodge and the Forest Lodge, as well as two private villas, one with four bedrooms and one with six.
The Garden Lodge is surrounded by verdant garden and the ancient Milkwood Forest. Guests can enjoy panoramic reserve and coastal views from the 11 One and Two Bedroom Luxury Suites. There is an elegant wine cellar for intimate dinners here, as well as a cosy restaurant and wellness are complete with a sauna. A heated pool overlooks the Grootbos gardens, and families with children of all ages are welcome in this area of the resort.
The Forest Lodge offers a secluded and romantic getaway atop a hill, with 180-degree views of the surrounding landscape. Here, 16 One Bedroom Luxury Suites can be found, and guests can enjoy the use of one restaurant, two lounges and one barista, as well as the outdoor ‘Boma’ dining area, an infinity pool with ocean views, and an intimate wine cellar perfect for cosy dinners. This area of Grootbos is reserved for families with children 12 years and above only.
‘Rich character, warm spirit, exquisite taste’
Rosenhof is a carefully renovated, historic homestead in a beautiful luxury country house on the outskirts of Oudtshoorn close to a range of superb geographical and wildlife attractions. Affording spectacular mountain or garden views, the property has all the luxuries of a pristine five star hotel combined with a cosy home from home, and all set within manicured gardens.
‘Unpretentious unaffected luxury, elegance, quality, and attention to detail’
Schoone Oordt Country House is a charming country hotel in Swellendam South Africa, possibly the best of Swellendam accommodation, with 10 luxury bedrooms set separately from the Manor House in lush gardens, an intimate Conservatory restaurant, a sparkling saltwater pool and a passion for people, family, food, wine and the environment.
‘Refined South African Luxury’
Located in the original homestead built in 1859, this luxurious 18 suite boutique country hotel is a haven of luxury and personalised service. The Manor House reflects its historical roots with chic furnishings and eco-friendly luxury amenities. Indulge in fine dining at La Cantina or experience gourmet cuisine at Henry White's. Engage in a round of golf at the Fancourt Golf Estate or relax with a rejuvenating spa treatment. The hotel is also home to a private pool and a lounge and bar for residents, making for an unforgettable and exclusive experience. This proud member of The Leading Hotels of the World is also well placed for guests to explore nearby attractions like the Outeniqua Transport Museum or take in the beauty of the Garden Route Botanical Garden.
‘Five Star Hideaway’
Situated just outside Hermanus, the Marine hotel boasts 40 stylish and comfortable rooms and suites all with first class amenities and stunning views of Hermanus’ Walker Bay. There are a choice of restaurants and bars to enjoy and a wide range of leisure facilities including whale watching, a beauty spa and swimming pools. Families are welcome and the wide range of children’s activities including marine safaris, interactive cooking classes and a selection of board games will make their stay more enjoyable.
‘Historic Boutique Hotel in a Spectacular Location’
The Old Rectory Hotel and Spa is boutique beach hotel located within the oldest surviving building in Plett. Built in 1777, it is a National Monument Building that has retained beautifully authentic features throughout. Find exposed wooden beams and stonework in Nibbles Bar, where guests can sample wines from the hotel’s own estate. The hotel is idyllically located along a great route - the Garden Route - perfect for South African adventures, and it also sits just a short walk away from some of Plett’s most beautiful beaches. Head to the coast for beautiful walks or to see whales in the bay. 18 sumptuous suites promise peace and tranquillity, with king size four poster beds and en suite bathrooms – choose from pool or garden views then sit back and relax. When dinner time rolls around, the aptly-named 1777 restaurant offers cuisines both inspired by the South African location and influenced by European flavours.
‘A spring in your step’
The Plettenberg is one of Relais & Chateaux’s most prestigious properties, managing to combine a quite wonderful position where sea, mountain and sand all feature prominently – with a heart warming tailored hotel experience. Sightings of dolphins and whales are common from the hotel terraces and trips to the beach are a given – but this is a hotel with so much more than that. The heart and soul lies in The Plettenberg’s outstanding service and some fine cuisine helps them achieve some truly dizzying heights. This five star hotel delivers on many levels and comes strongly recommended.
We believe that true luxury is only possible when all the details – the ones that really matter to you – are taken care of personally, professionally and to the highest standard.
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