The Marine
Hermanus

The Marine is a friendly and well-managed seaside property perched on the cliffs overlooking the ravishing Walker Bay, South Africa’s most pristine whale sanctuary and a stone’s throw from one of the greatest densities of Great White Sharks. Offering the finest land-based whale watching in the world, from June to November you’ll be able to view these majestic creatures from the comfort of your sea view room. The coastal walk passes through the front of the hotel and keen walkers can head to the top of the cliffs which affords fantastic views of the migrating whales. This hotel is the perfect option for those that want to be close to the action (both water-based activities and retail therapy). The Marine is just outside the centre of Hermanus (just a 5-minute walk) so offers guests the opportunity to stroll into town and explore some of the interior’s shops selling everything from Afro-chic to English inspired fabrics. For the younger guests there are a handful of surf and skate shops and some touristy knick-knack stalls manned by locals.

The hotel has 40 individually decorated bedrooms and suites; two of the Premier Suites offer magnificent sea views from private balconies. Breakfast is taken at the Pavilion restaurant which faces the sea front, so morning coffee can be enjoyed revelling in the views. Lunch and dinner are taken at Origins where guests can expect a more relaxed social dining feel. Head Chef Tronette Dippenaar focuses on using the extraordinary bounty of the surrounding area, meaning that meals are always fresh, local and utterly delicious. Guests can witness the chefs in action as Origins has an open kitchen. Other facilities include a saltwater swimming pool in the hotel’s courtyard, a Carchele Beauty Spa and a boutique shop offering a selection of items from acclaimed South African designers.

Hermanus is known for its whales, so pop into the local museum and learn more about Walker Bay’s history regarding these magnificent marine mammals. The centre of town also has a life size statue of a whale and an annual whale festival to celebrate the migration and calving of numerous species of whale that pass through these rich waters.

One of the gladdest moments in life is the departure upon a distant journey into unknown lands.
Richard Burton