Swain-selected stayHermanus, South AfricaBirkenhead HouseA distinctive base for a journey designed around you.Selected by our Destination ExpertsExploreThe storyGalleryExperiencesPlan your stayThe stayWhat to know about this stay.Birkenhead House is the ultimate seaside retreat combining luxury with coastal comfort. With its exhilarating cliff-top position overlooking the paradise of Walker Bay, Birkenhead House provides perfect antidote to the mundane and every day. The laid-back beach-house ambience and grand hotel opulence, Birkenhead House effortlessly blends grande dame hotel service with the relaxed ambience of a holiday villa. Whether you are seeking a rejuvenating retreat, or an adventure-filled beach holiday, Birkenhead House is the ideal destination. With cliff and fynbos walks beginning within a stone's throw of the hotel, and both ocean and mountains to explore, Birkenhead House truly does offer something for everyone. A closer lookBirkenhead House, in detail.View all 12 photosBeyond the stayExperiences nearbyWhale WatchingHermanus is the world’s best location for land-based whale watching. The migration of whales along the coast is a globally anticipated wildlife spectacle, and Birkenhead House is lucky to have some of the best seats in the house.See the Big 5 of the SeaExplore the ocean and its wildlife in comfort on board a catamaran with an expert crew who are passionate and knowledgeable about the sea and its most incredible creatures.Walk and HikesMake the most of Hermanus’ much-loved coastal trails and enjoy hiking or biking your way along a mountain trail. The famous Cliff Path Walk at Hermanus is one of the town’s most beautiful natural features and meanders for 7 miles along the rugged coastline.Tour the local Wine Route Just behind the historic town of Hermanus is the Hemel en Aarde Valley – an exciting and scenic wine region in South Africa producing fine, restrained, classically styled South African pinot noir and chardonnay.Mussel Picking and Cooking ClassForage for mussels growing wild on the rocks in front of the hotel and then learn how to prepare these fresh pickings into a delectable meal.Hermanus ArtwalkFeel the creative energy of Hermanus as you explore the untapped art scene of the bustling sea town most known for its whale watching and beaches. ConservationPenguins and Birding at the Estuary - Hermanus’ natural beauty is on the doorstep for guests at Birkenhead House. If you would like to spend dedicated time contributing to the wellbeing of these natural areas, you can participate in conservation-oriented activities that contribute to local wildlife protection.Sea-inspired WellnessLet the healing power of the ocean wash away stress and unwind in style with our range therapies and pampering treatments at the Birkenhead House Spa. Plan with SwainAdd Birkenhead House to your journey.Tell us where you want to go and how you like to travel. We will recommend the right route, length of stay, and experiences.Start planning →