Birkenhead House

Evoking nostalgic memories of afternoon teas and habitual family lunches, the original Birkenhead Hotel was once a legendary institution, perched on a cliff top in Hermanus (less than 2 hours' drive from Cape Town). Named after the Royal Navy vessel which sunk off the coast in 1852, Birkenhead House today enjoys the same fabulous location but with an irresistably stunning new identity – that of an award-winning glamorous coastal retreat.

Overlooking the whale watcher's paradise of Walker Bay, Birkenhead House is yet another signature Liz Biden hotel (see page 21). Boasting commanding views and two beguiling beaches which stretch out from either side of the promontory, reached by a short flight of steps, Birkenhead House embraces casual seaside living. The design is based on a classical style of symmetry with three buildings connected by a swimming pool and a courtyard fountain. In the glass-walled drawing room, a Baroque mirror hangs above the fireplace whilst French doors open onto a verandah and swimming pool which seems to float over the ocean –definitely the perfect vantage point from which to watch the sun rise and set over Walker Bay.

Inside, each of the 11 suites is totally unique –some have sunken Roman-style baths whilst others have Victorian bathtubs. Art Deco lamps, chandeliers, over-sized showerheads and an assortment of toiletries are an indication of Liz's affinity for ‘unrestrained opulence’. Sensuous lilac taffeta, monogrammed Ralph Lauren throws mixed with antique Chinese embroidered linen, crystal decanters on silver trays and an abundance of eclectic treasures are elegantly strewn throughout the house.

There is also a gym, steam room and a holistic treatment Spa where you can enjoy a range of relaxing and spiritual massages, body polishes, aromatherapy and skin-care treatments. Staff members are young, chic and well-trained exuding an air of relaxed formality.

Cuisine at Birkenhead House is ‘contemporary Cape’ – spicy fresh seafood and the best sushi ever! The chef’s philosophy is to use fresh fish and produce from the surrounding area, allowing you to savour the local flavours. Take a walk along the breathtaking cliff path to one of the beaches where a crayfish BBQ invariably awaits or enjoy some of the many diversions on offer – swimming, surfing, diving, deep-sea fishing or wine tasting at the prestigious Hamilton-Russell estate.

New for 2007, Birkenhead Villa is conveniently situated alongside Birkenhead House – and while ‘The Villa’ reflects the same level of luxury, service and attention to detail as Birkenhead House, special care has been taken to give this superb six-bedroom beach house an ambience of its own. It is the perfect exclusive retreat for a family or group of friends – and offers the best of both worlds – with access to the gym and Spa at Birkenhead House, yet with the added benefit of a private chef. The Villa can either be booked exclusively – or on a per room basis. Children are very welcome in the Villa – and there is one interconnecting family room.

PRICES Prices for Birkenhead House and Birkenhead Villa from £154 per person per night twin share including all meals, local beverages, house wines, tea and coffee. Flights from the UK from £589 (including £120 tax) with South African Airways