The Marine Hotel

The warm and inviting lounge overlooks Walker Bay, and is a great place to enjoy afternoon tea or a cocktail and snacks whilst taking in the fabulous ocean views. The Marine has two restaurants to tickle your tastebuds – The Pavilion, with a sophisticated atmosphere and food to match, and the more relaxed Origins, specialising in seafood. When you're not exploring the town, wander through the manicured courtyard gardens, take a dip in the pool or grab a good book and hit the sun terrace.

Forty beautifully appointed en-suite rooms and suites are of varying styles and sizes, from the classic Double Rooms, to the larger Luxury Doubles and Premier Suites. The décor is elegant with elements of maritime inspiration and all have air conditioning, heated floors, and tea and coffee making facilities. Views vary, with some rooms overlooking the courtyard and surrounding mountain backdrop, whilst the front-facing rooms (some with private balconies) enjoy glorious ocean views. Suites have a separate living area, and two have open fireplaces.

A highlight of Hermanus is undoubtedly the spectacular whale watching opportunities between June and November as huge numbers of humpback and southern right whales congregate in Walker Bay to calve. Several nature reserves with scenic hiking trails are close by, and the town itself has a good range of boutique shops, art and craft galleries, and excellent restaurants. Explore the quaint village of Stanford nearby and picturesque fishing villages along the coast, or head inland to the famous Hemel-en-Aarde valley for a wine tasting tour.