The Houw Hoek Hotel, set in a stunning and tranquil location, offers a delightful retreat for guests seeking natural beauty and serenity. Nestled amidst picturesque mountains, it serves as a convenient and peaceful hideaway, perfect for both relaxation and exploration. The hotel's strategic location with easy access to and from Cape Town, makes it an ideal stopover point or destination for travelers.
Guests consistently praise the hotel's breakfast offering, describing it as fantastic, fabulous and amazing. The extensive and fresh buffet is popular among all, especially families with its wide variety including fruits, cereals, eggs, pancakes and pastries. The dining hall's inviting ambiance, coupled with the friendly and attentive staff, further enhances the breakfast experience.
Dinner at the Houw Hoek Hotel also impresses guests, many of whom highlight the generous portions, variety and reasonable pricing. The Saturday night dinner dance is a notable highlight. Despite some menu items feeling dated and occasional wait times, the overall dining experience receives positive feedback, thanks largely to the tasty meals and excellent service.
The spacious, modern and clean rooms offer a comfortable stay with many featuring fireplaces, balconies and beautiful views. The cleanliness of the rooms and entire property is frequently commended, adding to the charming ambiance of the hotel. Although some rooms may benefit from modern updates and occasional maintenance improvements, the overall impression remains highly favorable.
The exceptional hospitality provided by the staff significantly elevates the guest experience. From friendly and accommodating receptionists to excellent dinner service, the staff are consistently praised for their dedication and helpfulness.
Families find Houw Hoek Hotel particularly appealing, thanks to its spacious accommodations, numerous child-friendly activities and helpful staff. Kids enjoy the variety of games, playgrounds and swimming pools, while parents appreciate the welcoming environment and quality facilities.
The beds at Houw Hoek Hotel are generally very comfortable and spacious, contributing to a good night's sleep, even though minor improvements with pillows and mattress rotation could be beneficial.
Overall, the Houw Hoek Hotel offers a delightful combination of stunning scenery, excellent food, comfortable accommodations and outstanding service, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing, family-friendly getaway.
Arabella Hotel, Golf and Spa, located in the breathtaking Arabella Country Estate, receives acclaim for its serene and picturesque environment. The prime location overlooking a beautiful bay, coupled with well-maintained gardens and tranquil atmosphere, makes it an exceptional destination for leisure, whale watching and especially golf enthusiasts. The hotel's convenience, including its proximity to Cape Town and ease of access from the N2 highway, adds to its allure.
Breakfast at Arabella receives high praise, described as exceptional, varied and fresh with many guests appreciating the inclusion of Halaal options and superb service from the staff. While there were minor critiques regarding the comfort of the breakfast room and occasional changes in the selection, the overall quality makes breakfast a standout feature.
The dinner experience is also largely positive with guests commending the delicious and well-prepared dishes, though some noted a limited menu and high prices. Despite these, the overall food quality is often held in high regard.
Rooms at the hotel are modern, clean and comfortable, featuring spacious layouts and stunning views of the lagoon, golf course and mountains. While a few reviews suggested room upgrades or noted minor maintenance issues, the majority of feedback highlights the rooms as a welcoming and relaxing retreat, enhanced by comfortable bedding and well-maintained grounds.
Cleanliness across the hotel is generally excellent with guests frequently noting the high standards in rooms and common areas, including the sauna, steam room and hydro pool. Some areas, such as the outdoor pool and carpets, could use more attention, but overall, the hotel's cleanliness and calm environment are well-regarded.
The staff at Arabella Hotel stand out for their friendliness, professionalism and commitment to guest satisfaction. Consistently praised for their welcoming and helpful nature, the receptionists and restaurant staff contribute significantly to the positive experience, despite occasional lapses in service consistency.
The spa facilities are a highlight, offering spacious, well-maintained amenities and exceptional massages. The serene ambiance and professional therapists create a fantastic spa experience, though some guests found the prices high and certain amenities closed due to Covid.
The pool areas, often described as beautiful and well-kept, provide an enjoyable and relaxing environment with clear waters and stunning views. While some guests found the pool cool, especially in winter, the overall feedback is positive, emphasizing the refreshing and serene poolside experience.
Family-friendly amenities at the hotel are excellent with spacious suites, child-friendly services and ample play areas highly appreciated by guests. Although some found the hydro spa pool too cold for children, the welcoming atmosphere and thoughtful amenities make it a great choice for families.
For golf enthusiasts, Arabella Hotel is a top destination with a superbly maintained course and excellent service. The picturesque surroundings and well-designed course contribute to memorable golfing experiences, making it a preferred spot for special occasions and leisurely golf retreats.
The beds at the hotel are widely praised for their comfort, though some guests noted issues with pillows and mattresses. However, the majority of reviews point to a very positive sleep experience.
In terms of luxury, the hotel delivers a first-class experience with its excellent breakfast, prime location and serene setting. While some aspects such as dining quality and certain facilities have room for improvement, Arabella Hotel, Golf and Spa remains a highly regarded and enjoyable destination for those seeking comfort and relaxation in a stunning environment.
High Season Farm Luxury Cottages is renowned for its captivating location, nestled in the breathtaking Hemel and Aarde Valley with views of Babylonstoring Peak. This remarkable setting offers guests a tranquil escape with superb panoramic vistas, combining rural charm with convenient access to nearby attractions. The cottages are situated close to the celebrated vineyards of Hemel en Aarde, making it an ideal choice for wine enthusiasts. Additionally, the lively town of Hermanus and its attractions are just a short drive away, providing both serenity and accessibility.
Guests consistently praise the dining experience, especially the delightful breakfast and braai baskets, which are both pleasing and thoughtfully presented. The dining service is generally exceptional, with staff attentive to dietary preferences, and unique touches like visits from baby cows during breakfast add to the charm. The convenience of fresh eggs delivered to guests' doors enhances the personalized service.
The cottages themselves, known for their spacious and luxurious self-catering facilities, offer an inviting blend of comfort and scenic beauty. Well-equipped and meticulously maintained, they provide a perfect sanctuary for relaxation amidst stunning mountain views. The interiors are celebrated for their stylish finishes and cozy atmosphere, making them an ideal retreat for couples and families. However, some guests have noted occasional ventilation issues, though these do not detract significantly from the overall experience.
Cleanliness is a standout feature at High Season Farm, with consistent praise for the spotless and well-kept accommodations. The aesthetically pleasing and homely interiors contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable stay, despite minor lapses in cleaning noted by a few guests. The diligent and helpful cleaning staff further enhance the appeal of this beautiful and clean environment.
Remarkable staff play a crucial role in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Guests frequently commend the friendly, responsive, and helpful service, with specific recognition given to outstanding team members such as Tasneem. While availability may be limited at times, the staff's professionalism and willingness to assist ensure a positive and memorable experience. The combination of exceptional service and luxurious amenities makes High Season Farm Luxury Cottages a sought-after destination for those seeking a peaceful and picturesque retreat.
Trail's End in Elgin is highly praised for its exceptional location, which is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking adventure and relaxation. The hotel is conveniently situated near well-marked trails, making it a popular choice for mountain biking and trail running aficionados. Its balance of accessibility and tranquility provides guests with a serene yet explorative environment.
The breakfast offerings at Trail's End are noted for their freshness, variety, and quality, with guests particularly appreciating the convenience of a help-yourself format. Although some guests yearn for more hot options, the overall positive feedback underscores a delightful start to the day. Dinner at Trail's End receives even higher acclaim, with consistent praise for its delicious and expertly prepared meals, including beloved dishes like the grilled fish and the weekend braai.
Rooms are celebrated for their spaciousness and comfort, providing the perfect setting for families and groups. Guests appreciate the bright and cheerful décor, alongside the cleanliness and convenience of amenities such as a coffee station. Occasional issues like room warmth do arise but are generally outweighed by positive experiences.
Cleanliness is a standout feature at Trail's End, with the property, including rooms and bathrooms, maintaining meticulous hygiene standards. Guests appreciate the combination of cleanliness and a cozy atmosphere, which are complemented by the friendly and helpful staff. The staff, including the owners, is often highlighted for their warm and welcoming demeanor, significantly enhancing the overall guest experience.
In summary, Trail's End excels in offering a remarkable stay with its prime location, excellent dining, comfortable accommodations, and outstanding service. These attributes combine to create an inviting and memorable experience for guests seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Baleia Guest Lodge in Hermanus receives high praise for its exceptional offerings and hospitality. Situated in the heart of the town, the lodge's convenient location is perfect for exploring local attractions, with the bustling town center, shops, and restaurants just a short walk away. Guests appreciate its proximity to the stunning coast and the renowned Cliff Path, ideal for whale watching and leisurely strolls.
Accommodations at Baleia Guest Lodge are spacious and comfortable, providing a safe and secure environment for guests. The rooms are well-maintained and clean, with attention to comfort and ample space for families or larger groups. Greenery in the courtyard adds a touch of tranquility, and beds are noted for their comfort, ensuring restful nights. While some minor inconveniences like occasional noise or lighting limitations are mentioned, overall satisfaction with the rooms and amenities is high.
Breakfast at the lodge is a standout feature, impressing guests with its quality and variety. From a traditional full English breakfast to a diverse buffet, the offerings are plentiful, fresh, and beautifully presented. The friendly service further enhances the breakfast experience, paired with great coffee and healthy options for a well-rounded start to the day.
The staff at Baleia Guest Lodge are consistently praised for their warm hospitality and professionalism, contributing significantly to the positive experience. Their attentiveness, helpful nature, and ability to provide valuable local advice make guests feel welcomed and at ease. The hands-on and flexible approach of the hosts, even organizing activities in adverse weather, underscores the commitment to guest satisfaction at this family-run establishment.
Overall, Baleia Guest Lodge is highly recommended for its excellent location, comfortable accommodations, superb breakfast, and exceptional staff, offering both charm and convenience for a memorable stay in Hermanus.
Perched on the cliffs and overlooking Hermanus' Walker Bay, the hotel features 40 tastefully decorated rooms and suites, most of which offer amazing sea views for whale watching. The hotel also offers plenty of dining and bar options as well as a spa and meeting facilities.
Summary of reviews
The Marine Hermanus is a highly recommended luxury hotel with exceptional staff and breathtaking views of False Bay. Guests appreciate the central and convenient location of the hotel, which is within walking distance of shops and restaurants. The breakfast buffet is plentiful and filled with options for every appetite and the dinner experience is a highlight of the stay. The rooms are cozy, comfortable and beautifully furnished with stunning sea views. The hotel is commended for its cleanliness and decor, making it a perfect choice for a comfortable stay in Hermanus. The staff is exceptional with countless guests raving about their friendliness, attentiveness and helpfulness. The spa experience is a must-try and the heated outdoor pool is well-liked. The beds are comfortable and spacious, providing a luxurious touch to the stay. While some guests feel it may not be a five-star hotel, it cannot be denied that The Marine Hermanus is a beautiful and luxurious hotel that offers a truly 5-star experience.
'7 on Marine' is a highly regarded destination along the scenic coastline, boasting an exceptional location right by the sea. Guests consistently praise its breathtaking ocean views and the unique opportunity for whale watching directly from their rooms. The hotel is conveniently situated near the popular Cliff Path and is a short, safe walk to the center of town with easy access to local shops, restaurants and waterfront attractions.
The rooms at '7 on Marine' are spacious, modern and elegantly decorated, providing a luxurious and comfortable stay. They are frequently noted for their cleanliness and uncluttered design, featuring stunning sea views and cozy beds. The bathrooms continue the luxury theme with open-plan designs and fabulous baths.
The breakfast experience at '7 on Marine' stands out with guests lauding the variety, freshness and superb presentation of the food. While there are occasional mentions of slow service, the quality and diversity of options generally receive high praise. The environment and views during breakfast add to the pleasant dining experience.
Cleanliness is a key highlight with reviews consistently noting the hotel's immaculate upkeep and well-maintained spaces. The technical setup and modern amenities further enhance the experience, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free stay.
The staff at '7 on Marine' are frequently commended for their friendliness, helpfulness and professionalism. Guests appreciate the warm welcome and exceptional service from the entire team, making their stay even more enjoyable. Personal touches from hosts like Pieter and Annie leave a lasting impression and are a testament to the high standards of service.
In summary, '7 on Marine' excels in offering a blend of stunning sea views, excellent location, high comfort and exceptional service, making it a highly recommended choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and convenience along the beautiful coastline.
The One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel & Spa by The Living Journey Collection offers a luxurious and intimate experience nestled along Hermanus' picturesque coastline. Perfectly situated near the seafront, the hotel provides easy access to the famous hiking and cliff paths, offering stunning ocean views and opportunities for whale spotting. Its central location allows guests to explore local restaurants and attractions with convenience while maintaining a serene and quiet atmosphere.
Guests are thoroughly impressed by the sumptuous breakfast options, which are diverse and plentiful, featuring both hot and cold selections tailored to individual preferences. The breakfast ambiance is enhanced by friendly service and excellent coffee, contributing to a delightful start to the day. Rooms at the hotel are spacious, modern, and impeccably clean, with breathtaking ocean views and thoughtfully designed interiors that combine comfort and elegance. Much-appreciated amenities include cozy beds and balconies that offer stunning vistas.
The hotel's meticulous cleanliness extends beyond the rooms to every corner of the facility, supported by stylish decor and a fresh white and blue color scheme. The friendly and welcoming staff are frequently lauded for their exceptional hospitality, providing attentive service without being intrusive. Standout figures like Gilbert, Nicole, Natasha, Sandisi, and Nicholas add to the hotel's charming experience through their dedication to personalized guest care.
The pool area, while smaller in size, offers a warm and pleasant ambiance perfect for relaxation, equipped with loungers and towels. Guests appreciate the beds for their exceptional comfort, contributing to restful sleep, despite occasional mentions of firmness. Overall, the One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel & Spa is celebrated for its blend of luxury and thoughtful design, set in a prime location with stunning sea views, making it an ideal retreat for discerning travelers seeking both sophistication and coziness.
Penguino Guesthouse stands out as an exceptional choice for travelers visiting Hermanus, South Africa, thanks to its superb location, delightful amenities, and warm hospitality. Situated right in the heart of Hermanus, guests benefit from easy access to the town center and breathtaking coastal paths, allowing effortless exploration of attractions like the Waterfront and the renowned cliffs promenade for whale watching. The serene environment, yet proximity to lively activities, makes the guesthouse's location highly praised by visitors for convenience and safety.
The accommodations at Penguino Guesthouse are modern, clean, and spacious, with thoughtful furnishings and luxurious touches like heated mattress toppers, making for a comfortable stay. The rooms are consistently noted for their tidiness and stylish decor, complemented by large bathrooms and excellent amenities that ensure a restful retreat. Guests are further delighted by the inviting pool area, which is heated and well-maintained, offering an ideal spot for relaxation.
Another standout feature is the breakfast experience at Penguino, which guests often describe as world-class. The host, Stefan, impresses with his creative and delicious array of fresh fruit platters, pancakes, eggs, and other mouthwatering choices. This culinary delight is highlighted as a memorable part of the guesthouse experience, setting a positive tone for the day.
Cleanliness is a hallmark at Penguino Guesthouse, with consistently spotless accommodations and common areas. The commitment to maintaining immaculate facilities is matched by the attentive and friendly staff, whose hospitality enhances the overall experience. Hosts Stefan and Nikki are repeatedly praised for their warm and accommodating nature, fostering a family-like atmosphere that makes guests feel at home.
Despite mixed feedback on WiFi reliability due to occasional power outages, the overall guest experience remains overwhelmingly positive, thanks to spacious rooms, outstanding service, and insightful local recommendations from the hosts.
Penguino Guesthouse also prioritizes safety with secure parking options within its gated property, allowing guests to enjoy peace of mind for their vehicles. The beds receive high praise for their comfort, contributing to a cozy and restful environment after a day of exploring.
Overall, Penguino Guesthouse offers a welcoming haven that combines prime location, modern amenities, cleanliness, and exceptional hospitality, making it a standout choice for travelers seeking a delightful stay in Hermanus.
Schulphoek Seafront Boutique Hotel receives generally positive reviews across various aspects, making it a highly recommended destination for travelers looking for a serene seaside escape.
Schulphoek Seafront Boutique Hotel benefits greatly from its stunning coastal location, offering spectacular ocean views and a tranquil, safe environment. Situated slightly away from central Hermanus, the hotel provides a convenient and free shuttle service to town, allowing guests to easily access local attractions, restaurants and shops. The close proximity to the Whale Coast Mall and the Hemel en Aarde Valley enhances its appeal. Guests particularly enjoy the serene setting, panoramic windows and beautiful garden area, making it an ideal spot for a rejuvenating stay.
Guests praise the breakfast experience for its variety, quality and presentation. The breakfast offerings include a selection of regional organic and homemade items, receiving significant acclaim for their deliciousness and personalization. The breakfast room's sea view further elevates the dining experience.
The hotel's dinner service is also well-regarded with many guests highlighting the delicious and well-prepared dishes. While some guests noted a desire for more diverse options and mentioned occasional inconsistencies, the overall quality of the culinary offerings remains commendable.
The accommodation at Schulphoek Seafront Boutique Hotel is particularly noteworthy with guests frequently complimenting the stunning, spacious rooms. The rooms are praised for their breathtaking ocean views, cleanliness, comfort and modern amenities. The tasteful and unique decor, along with luxurious elements such as automatic curtains, spacious terraces and Africology products, contribute to an indulgent experience. Even though some guests mentioned occasional issues like noise or dated furnishings, the overwhelmingly positive feedback underscores the hotel's high standards.
The staff at Schulphoek Seafront Boutique Hotel are celebrated for their exceptional service and warm hospitality. Guests highlight the friendly, attentive and accommodating nature of the team, particularly praising the General Manager for her professionalism and care. The staff's extraordinary efforts to ensure a pleasant stay, including thoughtful gestures and personalized recommendations, leave a lasting impression.
While the Wi-Fi service receives mixed reviews with some guests experiencing weak or slow connections, the hotel has measures in place to address these issues promptly. The spa services, though appreciated by guests, could benefit from some improvements, as the facilities were described as small and lacking certain amenities.
Opinions on the pool are mixed with some guests enjoying the aesthetic appeal of the surrounding garden area, while others pointed out cleanliness issues and maintenance shortcomings. Despite these criticisms, the overall experience remains positive.
The hotel offers convenient parking options, which are generally praised for their safety and accessibility. Features like secure and shaded parking, along with a car wash service, add to the guests' comfort.
Schulphoek Seafront Boutique Hotel is also noted for being family-friendly, providing large, comfortable rooms and a welcoming atmosphere suitable for families. Special touches, like porridge for children at breakfast, enhance the experience for family travelers.
Lastly, the beds at Schulphoek Seafront Boutique Hotel are consistently praised for their comfort and support, contributing to a restful stay.
In summary, Schulphoek Seafront Boutique Hotel impresses with its scenic location, exceptional service, delicious meals, luxurious rooms and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a top choice for a memorable and tranquil vacation. Minor improvements in Wi-Fi, pool maintenance and spa facilities could further enhance the guest experience.