The Whale Coast, South Africa
Birkenhead House
Boutique elegance and character on the Headland
Like its siblings of the Royal Portfolio properties (Royal Malewane in the Kruger and La Residence in Franschhoek), Birkenhead House exudes a comfortable chic that is majestically modern yet intimate. Its position on the cliffs of Hermanus looking over Walker Bay confirms it as one of the best places to stay along the Whale Cape.
With only eleven rooms, a fully-equipped spa and an excellent restaurant, the service here is both attentive and personal and a broad range of activities from aromatherapy to shark diving can be arranged.
The interiors are an adroit marriage between traditional French-style furniture offset by antiques, and more clean modern lines using a fresh white and beige palette interspersed with expert use of vibrant colours that complement the views streaming in, and which mostly draws the eyes.
Highlights
Eleven Suites
Restaurant
Whale watching
Nature trails and beach walks
Deep sea fishing
Local wine tours
Golf
Surfing
Swimming pool
Spa and gym
Trip Inspiration
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Places to combine Birkenhead House with
Etosha National Park
Encounter by Ongava is an intimate safari camp set within Ongava Game Reserve, on the southern edge of Etosha National Park. You’ll be surrounded by Mopane woodland and wildlife moving freely through the landscape.
There are eight spacious walk-in tents: seven standard tents and one paired tent that works well for families or small groups. Each tent has an en-suite bathroom with an outdoor shower and a private deck.
You can head out on game drives across the 30,000-hectare Ongava Game Reserve. The area is known for its rhino population, as well as lion, zebra and antelope, including the endemic black-faced impala. We especially recommend private guided nature walks, where you can slow down, appreciate the small details and explore with minimal impact. There may be the chance to approach white rhino on foot, as well as spend time bird watching.
For a wider safari experience, take a guided excursion into nearby Etosha National Park, Namibia’s prime savannah wilderness area. At the Ongava Visitor Centre, learn about the region’s geology, wildlife, plants and ecology.
Back at camp, slow down by the pool, settle into the library or gather at the bar as evening falls. The day softens into drinks, quiet conversation and the sounds of the reserve.
