Birkenhead House — Hotel in Overstrand Local Municipality

A Perfect Stay at Birkenhead House – Luxury, Warmth, and Unmatched Hospitality

Our stay at Birkenhead House in Hermanus was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warmth and genuine hospitality that set the tone for an unforgettable experience. Every detail of this stunning property, perched on the cliffs overlooking the ocean, exudes luxury while maintaining an intimate, relaxed atmosphere.

The staff at Birkenhead House went above and beyond in every possible way. Personable, attentive, and always ensuring that we felt comfortable and well cared for, they made our honeymoon truly special. From the front desk team to the expert drivers who made exploring the area effortless and enjoyable, the service was seamless and deeply personal. We felt incredibly safe and at home, which is something we deeply appreciated.

The all-inclusive experience at Birkenhead House is another standout feature. Every meal was a masterpiece—fresh, locally sourced, and the menu changed daily. Whether enjoying breakfast with a breathtaking ocean view or indulging in a perfectly crafted cocktail by the pool, every moment felt curated to perfection.

Hermanus itself is a dream destination, with stunning coastal walks, and the charming town just a short ride away. However, the magic of Birkenhead House made it difficult to leave the property at all!

Our experience was so phenomenal that now that we’re in Cape Town, we are actively trying to switch our stay to another Royal Portfolio hotel—because if it’s anything like Birkenhead House, we know we’re in for an incredible time.

If you’re looking for a luxury getaway that combines impeccable service, breathtaking surroundings, and a truly welcoming atmosphere, Birkenhead House is the perfect choice. We can’t...

Extremely disappointing spa visit. Compared to other spas in the price class.

My husband and I visited Birkenhead house for massages, unfortunately accommodation was fully booked at the time of booking.

The spa experience in it’s entirety was very disappointing. You are barely ushered into the front door and then you find the “spa” (which is just a few outside rooms). No real spa atmosphere. It kind of felt they just want you to be quick - a hit it and quit it.

Nothing offered to drink whilst waiting as with other spas

loadshedding started (we completely understand) but the generator was right outside our couples room. Now half way through that was our “soothing” spa sound. And the other staff were talking out loud outside the room at the back

if you are not an in-house guest you aren’t allowed to make use of the pool. This was extremely disappointing. Even at spas like the Leeu collection you can at the very least make use of the facility.

no showers to rinse of the oil from the massage. We were expected to put on the clothes we came with, over the oil (which made some stains) and on top of that it was very very hot, get in the car and leave.

My therapist, Lulu, was extremely kind and made me feel at ease as I was having a pregnancy massage.

Unfortunately my husband got quite a bit of beating with his massage. He was bruised all over his shoulders the next day as his therapist used her elbows to massage him. We often go for massages and the therapists usually use their forearms. But he looked terrible after this massage. So much so that he doesn’t want to go for a massage again!

For something that was supposed to be a treat before our baby comes, was just a disappointment. For the first time I felt I have wasted money...

a great combination of excellent food, amazing views from the veranda and personal, but relaxed service. Clive the chef made for a wonderful eating experience, very tasty, locally sourced food and wine. I'm not a 'foody' but ate fish most evenings and lapped up the puddings :-). We were full board, which I think is standard and with such a variety of dishes, we never got bored. ||||We stayed here for 6 nights and tried to keep active with walks, swimming, a marine five trip and some eMTB and a wine trip. If this is your thing then I would suggest; ||||- If driving from CT, take the coast road and stop at Pringle for a coffee and a led stretch. ||||- hiking in the Fernkloof (hills behind the hotel) lots of trials, ask the management or look on strava for recommendations. watch out of the baboons, friendly-ish, but don't entice / feed or try and scare them away....just be cool...and they wont hassle you. if they do, call the baboon hotline...yes, there is a baboon hotline. ||||- Mountain Biking at Oak Valley Wine estate - see my review if this, but go for the biking and not the food or wine - and use Joe Ride from Cape Town as a guide. ||||- The Marine Big Five - just do it. We were out of whale season and saw copper sharks, a hump back whale (yes I know right) lots of dolphins, penguins and fur seals. We didn't hang around in Gainsbaii, but seemed nice enough. ||||- Cafe at Grotto beach.||||- Walking along the coastal path and swimming in the sea. Its cold, and find out of about currents, but...