The Windermere

The Windermere is a fashionable boutique hotel which brings a brand new sense of style and sophistication to the city of Port Elizabeth. Located in the prestigious beachfront suburb of Humewood with glorious views over Kings Beach, The Windermere combines elements of contemporary chic with classic home comforts. Port Elizabeth is the gateway to the Garden Route and the safari lodges of the Eastern Cape– and this unique gem is the perfect introduction, or relaxing end, to your stay along this famous stretch of coastline.

Clean lines and classic shades characterise the décor in each of the eight luxury suites, whilst slate and shale provide a soothing backdrop to the modern furniture and lighting. The beds, like most of the hotel furniture, were custom-made by Haldene Martin, hailed as ‘Decorator of the Year’ in 2004 - and they were carefully installed under the watchful eye of designer-owner Anne Read and her husband Clive. Their brief to the architect, who designed the two-storey concrete-and-glass building from scratch, was to create one of the top boutique hotels in the southern hemisphere – and he appears to have more than fulfilled this ambitious request! Each spacious suite not only boasts a large bathroom with an indulgent bath and a separate shower – but also a living area with a sofa. The largest suite has a second connecting bedroom – ideal for families with children.

Every morning, you can look forward to a fabulous breakfast of homemade preserves, seasonal fruit platters, jugs of freshly prepared juices and a variety of home-baked treats. In the evening, there are several fish restaurants within walking distance, serving ‘catch-of-the-day’ seafood straight from the fishermen!

Kings Beach, where King George VI and the Royal party swam in 1947, is just a short walk away.

PRICES Prices from £98 per person per night twin share including breakfast. Flights from the UK from £589 (including £120 tax) with South African Airways