Birkenhead House does for whale watching what sister hotel Royal Malewane does for safaris. It has been conceived with immaculate taste by owner Liz Biden and her interior designer Ralph Krall, its modern architectural design and sophisticated interiors enhanced by its dramatic clifftop setting above the Indian Ocean.

A definite house-party ambience prevails here, the welcoming staff always going that extra mile to make sure guests feel like part of the family. Just eleven rooms await, shared out between three different houses that tier down from the road to the ocean. All rooms are individually decorated, design themes ranging from African to Oriental, beds
varying from step-up to four-poster and baths either with claw feet or sunken into the floor. Most have balconies and one has a private splash pool.

It goes without saying that the public areas are equally stylish. The cretestone walls and Travertine flooring are set off by huge white sofas and contemporary artwork, whilst the floor-to-ceiling windows of the First House ensure guests take full advantage of its proximity to the ocean. And of course dining here is equally memorable, the fine
international cuisine served in a variety of different venues that range from the beach and sun terrace to the ivy-clad courtyard. Whale watching (June to October), bathing in the ocean or pool and seaside walks along the cliff paths help counter those calories!

ACCOMMODATION: 11 GUEST ROOMS.
ACCESS: 1½ HOUR FROM CAPE TOWN
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT.
CHILDREN: NO CHILDREN UNDER 12 YEARS.
2 NIGHTS: FROM £290 P.P. IN THE LOW-SEASON.
(FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS EXTRA).
MEAL PLAN: BREAKFAST INCLUDED.