Ellerman House
Bantry Bay, Cape Town, South Africa
based on 7 nights
per person for 7 nights based on 2 people sharing a classic house room on a bed and breakfast basis and private transfers.
At a Glance
Set on the cliffs overlooking Bantry Bay, Ellerman House boasts breath-taking views that you’ll never tire of, you can easily get distracted day-dreaming the time away mesmerized by the rolling waves of the Atlantic.
Being in one of the most exclusive suburbs of Cape Town, this elegant Edwardian house offers 13 rooms and suites and oozes luxury at every turn – guests can’t help but fall under its spell.
Set in picturesque gardens with perfectly manicured lawns the sea-facing adults-only pool is nestled on the lower terrace of the hotel - a stunning spot to totally unwind.
The wine-gallery at Ellerman House – the hotel’s cellar, retains a collection of 7,500 bottles of vintage South-African wines and offers an experiential journey into the wonderful world of wine.
Whether you just want to relish the gourmet cuisine or peruse the notable collection of art, Ellerman House doesn’t disappoint and all within walking distance of Clifton’s infamous beaches.
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Best time to Visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit
Year-round destination. The summers are generally warm and dry, while winters tend to be wet and cool, the rains brought on by fierce north westerly gales. Neither season experiences extremes of temperature, thanks to prevailing winds. Summer (Nov-Mar) is the hottest with temperatures 20-40°C. Mid season (Apr, May, Sep, Oct) temps between 10-30°C. Winter (from June- Aug) is the low season with temps 0-25°C.
Insider's View
Treat yourself to a glass of bubbly along with your afternoon tea on the veranda - the views are to die for!
Visit the kitchen for a pre-dinner chat with the chef and hear all about the delicious treats in store for the evening.
Spend a day just relaxing on the lawns by the pool, the most stunning location to do just that in the whole of Cape Town.
Ellerman House is home to probably the best villa in cape town. The private deck and pool are breathtaking.
Hungry guests can visit the guest larder and fill their pockets with everything from fudge to marshmallows – perfect for midnight feasts!
Ellerman has 7500 bottles of south African wine in the cellar – just about enough for a good party!
Design your own mini-bar – and it will be placed in your room before you arrive
The private art collection is absolutely stunning and has some totally unique pieces. Talk to the in-house art dealer for advise on where to find similar pieces.
Every afternoon there is wine tasting offered at 3.30pm
The art on display at Ellerman House is all South African bar one British born artist - very impressive!
South African whisky, brandy and gin are complimentary in each room and well worth enjoying whilst sat on your balcony overlooking Bantry Bay.
To start planning your holiday to Ellerman House
Description
Ellerman House is situated in Bantry Bay, one of the smartest areas of Cape Town, with sweeping views of Cape Town and out to sea. The hotel has 11 elegant suites, two which overlook the wonderful garden. It is one of the most opulent hotels in Cape Town.
Ellerman House is a historical landmark situated on quite the most spectacular site on Kloof Road in the premier Cape Town suburb of Bantry Bay. It is within walking distance of the famous Clifton Beach, 10 minutes from the centre of Cape Town and the bustling Waterfront and a mere 45 minutes from the heart of the winelands. It is the perfect springboard from which to discover the cape’s many and varied attractions: sun drenched beaches, world class restaurants, majestic Table Mountain, spectacular scenic drives and golf courses.
All eleven rooms are individually decorated and there is an incredible collection of the owners artwork on the walls of the hotel. There are the nine luxurious rooms and also two more spacious suites which have adjoining sitting rooms.
Ellerman House Spa and Gym offers the latest equipment in an unrivalled setting of beauty and splendour. Reserved solely for guests of Ellerman House or Villa, privacy and exclusivity are completely guaranteed. Whether you want to indulge in a day of pampering in ultra-modern surroundings, or enjoy a revitalising workout, the Ellerman House Spa & Gym will invigorate your senses.
Ellerman House will be the first to recommend superb restaurants in the area and the must see's and do's of the city. The service at Ellerman House is impeccable.
Accommodation
Ellerman House has nine luxurious rooms and two spacious suites with adjoining lounges. Each room is lavish, en-suite and houses original South African art.
The rooms all have flat-screen satellite TV, under-floor heating, air conditioning, internet connectivity and a complimentary room bar as well as delicious home-made treats. All but two have magnificent views over the glittering Atlantic Ocean and world famous Robben Island. Each room is slightly different in either its lay-out or interior decor, yet all combine a classic style with modern touches.
Childcare
Only children over the age of 14 are welcome to stay at Ellerman House.
Facilities
The hotel has a stunning infinity swimming pool, with sea views and the Ellerman House Spa and Gym offers the latest equipment in an unrivalled setting of beauty and splendour. Reserved solely for guests of Ellerman House or Villa, privacy and exclusivity are completely guaranteed. Choose from a wide range of relaxing and beautifying treatments in luxurious surroundings. There is also a private art gallery featuring the best of South Africa contemporary art.
The fabulous concierge service is on hand to tailor an activity itinerary to suit each individual guest. They will suggest options and assist with booking your preferred activity.
Activities
Ellerman House has the scope of Cape Town on its doorstep and the experienced Concierge Service is a fantastic aid in deciding which of the many activities and excursions to enjoy. From the beaches with water sports options to golf or hiking up Table mountain, museums, top restaurants and the winelands to explore - there will be something for all guests to enjoy.
Reviews
Amber Hopkins (Staff)
Perched on the hillside in popular Bantry Bay overlooking the ocean, Ellerman House is certainly a unique and special property. As soon as you arrive you're greeted by friendly and helpful staff who make you feel as though you're returning to your home, emphasised by there being no check-in desk and a key tray in the main hall where guests happily leave their room keys during the day. Lovers of Fine Art will be fascinated by the abundance of South African art displayed on the walls at Ellerman House, ranging from classical pieces through to contemporary in their private gallery in the gardens. Complimentary South African whisky, gin and brandy in guests' rooms make for a really lovely touch, and would highly recommend enjoying from your balcony overlooking their manicured garden and sea. If wine is more your cup of tea, their extensive wine gallery where tastings can be organised comes highly recommended, and for foodies they have a pantry offering an array complimentary sweet and savoury treats to guests through out the day which makes you feel like a child in a sweet shop! A very enjoyable and memorable stay.
Rose Gemmell (Staff)
Ellerman House is one of the most luxurious hotel options in Cape Town and has the most amazing ocean views out to Robben Island. I absolutely loved the private art collection which is one of the finest collections in South Africa and includes the last official portrait taken of Nelson Mandela of which there are only two original copies.
The larder was also a lovely little touch where guests can help themselves to snacks and drinks should they feel at all peckish throughout the day.
Ellerman House has a real home away from home feel, in winter there are roaring fires in every room and comfortable sofas to curl up on. In summer, all the veranda doors are wide open and you can spend the day relaxing by the pool overlooking Camps Bay.
Anna Hearn (Staff)
Quite possibly the most stunning vista in the whole of Camps Bay, Ellerman House oozes Edwardian style from the moment you arrive. Descend the wood-panelled staircase into a beautiful drawing room with original artworks on the walls, and a fully restored grand piano (on which the menus for the day are displayed in highly polished silver frames). A library can be found next door, but it is the outside space which really sets Ellerman apart. Cascading lawns, fringed with flowerbeds specifically planted with Cape flowers, draw the eye to the incredible view of the ocean. Palm trees dot the lawn, sculptures peer from between thickly flowered bushes, and behind all this the house towers, cream coloured and elegant. Ellerman also has an art gallery collected over many years and showcasing some of the very best of South African art well worth taking a wander through. The rooms are, as you would expect, sumptuously furnished and beautifully appointed. Ellerman is splendidly charming, a house full of character, just perfect for those wishing for a bit of English country house style in the glorious Riviera setting of Bantry Bay.
Dominic Atterton (Staff)
A fantastic location down on Bantry Bay gives Elerman house a really special feel. As we sat having lunch on the terrace taking in the large lawn and glittering waters of the swimming pool beyond you could see why it has one of the highest rates for returning guests in cape town. The rooms are very true to the colonial and traditional feel of the hotel. However the spa located across the lawn in a separate building also housing the awesome private villa is very much more modern with light wood and huge windows bathing it in light. The hotel is also involved heavenly in contemporary art and has an impressive gallery on site that is open for guests to tour with a resident expert.
A grown up hotel that offers the chance to feel completely relaxed in your own private garden paradise with a large pool surrounded by loungers you could happily spend a week relaxing then heading into Cape Town for a dinner or drink in the evenings. The perfect combination!
Sarah Clegg (Staff)
This is quite possibly the most luxurious and spoiling place to stay in Cape Town. Beautiful terraced lawns and an incredible swimming pool. Fantastic attentive service, delicious food and great views over Bantry Bay and out to Robben Island.
(Press)
Best for ambience & design - With glorious views over Bantry Bay, this beautiful boutique hotel is the former home of shipping magnate Sir John Ellerman. Famed for its extensive South African art collection and 9,000-bottle wine cellar, it has just nine elegant rooms and two suites. There is a heated pool in the terraced grounds, a spa and a contemporary-art gallery that doubles as a private cinema. The separate, three-bedroom Ellerman Villa has a private chef and butler service; a second villa, which will house a state-of-the-art wine cellar and wine library, is currently being constructed. The concierge team will arrange anything, including tables at the city's best restaurants. All rooms are equipped with iPads for guests' use.
X-factor 'This is one of my favourite places in the world,' says Gold List contributor Peter Browne. 'It is exceptionally beautiful and undeniably sumptuous, with valuable paintings by the most respected South African artists, but it somehow never feels remotely intimidating or grand.'
Louisa Verney (Staff)
This is quite possibly, THE place to stay in Cape Town. With stunning views overlooking Bantry Bay, if you can stay here... do! The service is so discreet but perfectly done that no guest need goes unmissed. With its elegant sunbeds surrounding the large pool this is exactly where I'd want to be on a sunny afternoon in Cape Town, as I sip on a cold gin and tonic. The food looked amazing and as a Relais and Chateau, you would expect it to be! Every room is decorated individually with such care in a classic but contemporary way. If you are lucky enough to go, you must spend some time in the new art gallery. It changes regularly and supports local artists.
Experiences
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24hrs to the White Desert and back
This incredible experience is a 24 hour round trip which takes you to the stunning icebergs of the Antarctic and back to Cape Town. This unique opportunity to explore the white desert truly is the 'greatest day' to share with family or friends
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Abseil Table Mountain
From 1,000 metres above sea level, let us take you through a thrilling abseiling experience with breathtaking views, all while keeping your pulse racing!
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Bay Harbour Market - Hout Bay
Bay Harbour Market is situated on the water’s edge in an old fish factory in Hout Bay Harbour. The market boasts more than 100 stalls selling a huge variety of local produce from arts and crafts to fashion, jewellery and authentic South African food.
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Benguela Diamond Safari with Ellerman House
Embark on a truly once in a lifetime experience, ideal for a proposal or just a romantic gesture. This 'diamond safari' allows you to follow a diamonds journey, from its source under the ocean to being set in a stunning piece and an everlasting memory
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Bike and Saddle Cycling Tours
What better way to experience the varied landscapes of the Cape Peninsula than by bike? Bike and Saddle has six routes ranging from a three hour tour around Cape Town, to a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula, there is something to suit everyone.
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Cable car trip to the peak of Table Mountain
Table Mountain, at 1086 metres above sea level, forms the impressive backdrop to Cape Town. An impressive natural landmark with a 3km flat plateau at the summit, a cable car trip to the top is the best way to experience its breathtaking views.
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Cape Peninsula - Active
Explore the Cape Peninsular with its local fishing villages and surfing beaches. Snorkel or stand up paddle board in rock pools near penguin colonies before venturing deep into the Peninsula reserve to discover the rich wildlife inhabiting this area.
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Cape Peninsula - Family
This guided day out is perfect for the whole family with treasure hunts in Kirstenbosch Gardens, fishing in Kalk Bay, stand up paddle boarding with penguins and game viewing in the Cape peninsula reserve.
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Cape Peninsula Essentials
Relish in the very best of Cape Peninsula, including the Cape of Good Hope, Hout Bay, Chapman's Peak Drive, a Funicular ride at Cape Point, Simon's Town and Kirtensbosch. Get acquainted with the penguins of Boulders beach and seals in Duiker Island.
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Cape Peninsula Essentials in Vintage Car
Relish in the very best of Cape Peninsula, including the Cape of Good Hope, Hout Bay, Chapman's Peak Drive, a Funicular ride at Cape Point, Simon's Town and Kirtensbosch. Get acquainted with the penguins of Boulders beach and seals in Duiker Island.
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Cape Town Essentials
Our specialist guide will take you through the highlights of Cape Town, including the Green Market Square, Grand Parade, City Hall, Castle of Good Hope, Slave Lodge, Company's Garden, District 6 and Bo-Kaap.
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Classic Car Hire in Cape Town
Hire a classic car for the day and cruise the beautiful winding coastal roads of the cape.
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Cycling in Devon Valley
This half-day trip allows you to take in the picturesque view of Devon Valley, working off the delicious calories from the region's famous four-course gourmet at Clos Malverne, paired with wine tastings at two award-winning estates.
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Dinner at La Colombe
La Colombe has relocated to the Silvermist Organic Wine Estate at the top of Constantia Nek. Enjoy sweeping views of the Constantia Valley and Hout Bay, and feast on head chef Scot Kirton's creations. Commonly called the best restaurant in Constantia.
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Dinner at The Greenhouse
Peter Tempelhoff, executive chef at The Greenhouse, stays on the cutting-edge of South African cuisine with ever-changing seasonal menus, showcasing contemporary cooking techniques and culinary styles.
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Dinner at Twelve Apostles Hotel
Enjoy a delightful dinner on the stunning terrace overlooking the picturesque Cape Town sunset over the ocean.
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District Six Museum
Discovery the heart-tugging history of the community evicted from District Six during the time of apartheid.
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Explore Long Street and Kloof Street
Explore the City Bowl area of Cape Town along the streets of Long and Kloof. Kloof Street runs downhill from the lower slopes of Table Mountain to merge with Long Street and descend to the Waterfront area.
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Family Private Cape Adventure
Explore the Cape with a professional guide and private custom-built Adventure Utility Vehicle fully equipped with surfboards, stand up paddle boards, hiking packs and more for a day that combines adventure and sightseeing!
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First Thursdays - Cape Town
On the first Thursday of every month explore the art galleries of Cape Town until late. Museums and cultural attractions open their doors and allow visitors to spend the evening discovering the rich culture of the city.
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Footsteps and township private tour
Discover the tumultuous history of South Africa with a guided walking tour around Cape Town, and meet some of the residents, with a chance to learn about how they come together to create a strong community in the city's townships.
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Full Day Cape Point Tour
Your driver will collect you and drive you down the west coast of the Cape Peninsula. He will introduce you to the geography and cultural history, culminating at the Cape itself. You will drive back via Boulders Beach to see the penguins.
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Full Day Cape Town and Table Mountain
A full-day tour visiting Table Mountain for unforgettable views, returning to the city through the Malay Quarter, and incorporating a two-hour walking tour stopping at many of the city’s most important landmarks.
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Great White Shark Cage Diving
Great white shark cage diving is an experience like no other. To get up close to the ocean's number one predator in its natural environment is a humbling experience you will never forget.
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Great White Shark Diving
Great white shark cage diving is an experience like no other. To get up close to the ocean's number one predator in its natural environment is a humbling experience you will never forget.
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Harley Davidson in Cape Town
Is there a cooler way to explore the Cape and wider South Africa than hiring a Harley-Davidson and winding your way along the coastal roads or through the mountainous Winelands?
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Helicopter Over the Cape Peninsula
Enjoy a dramatic aerial view of Table Mountain, Robben Island, V&A Waterfront, Hout Bay, Chapman's Peak Drive, Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope.
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High Tea at The Mount Nelson
Afternoon tea at The Mount Nelson hotel is a must do whilst staying in Cape Town. The Mount Nelson Hotel serves tea from 14.30 onwards, book for a vast variety of sandwiches, pastries, and loose-leaf teas.
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Hike or Climb Table Mountain
Why not do something a bit different during your stay in Cape Town, get outdoors and experience some of the best climbing and hiking in the world? Take a hike or rock climbing trip up Table Mountain whilst taking in the breathtaking views all around you.
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Hike Table Mountain: Table Top Circuit
The table top circuit of Table Mountain follows the easy circular footpaths for magnificent views of Cape Town and the surrounding natural landmarks.
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Horseriding on Noordhoek Beach
For a unique day out in Cape Town, take a horseback ride along the five-mile long, picturesque Noordhoek Beach. Noordhoek is the longest beach in Cape Town and has spectacular views of Table Mountain and the Chapman's Peak.
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Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum
View exhibits focusing on historical and comperary issues facing the Muslim community within the Cape area.
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Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden is acclaimed as one of the great botanic gardens of the world, and thought by many to be the most beautiful garden in Africa. Don't miss out on a visit to this magical treasure of Cape Town.
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Lunch & Cellar Tour at Durbanville Hills
A scenic route leads you to Durbanville Hills for a tour of their cellar and lunch at their open restaurant.
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Paragliding over Cape Town
For the adrenaline junky, paragliding over Cape Town is the ultimate way to witness incredible views of the city. Take off from Lions Head or Signal Hill and let your instructor do the flying while you sit back and simply take it all in.
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Penguins at Boulders Beach
There are few places on earth where you can enjoy an experience quite like this. Get up close to the breeding colony of penguins, share their little sandy beach and even paddle into the sea to swim with them.
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Private Scootour Experience - Table Mountain
Enjoy a bit of free-wheeling fun down the slopes of Table Mountain and Signal Hill with friends and family on a private Scootour during your visit to Cape Town.
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Robben Island Trip
A short ferry ride from the V and A Waterfront in Cape Town is the famous Robben Island, a cultural must-do when staying in Cape Town, this trip gives an insight into South Africa's difficult history, as well as brilliant views across Cape Towns harbour.
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Sandboarding & Quad Biking Adventure
Travel 45 minutes to the Atlantis white sand dunes for sandboarding, a lunch and a four-wheel quad biking.
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Seal Island
Seal Island, is a small island, around 200 meters in length and a 15-minute boat ride from Hout Bay. The island has become a breeding colony for around 6000 Cape Fur Seals and several operators offer daily trips to the island.
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Shopping on the V&A Waterfront
The V&A waterfront in Cape Town houses over 226 shops and is an excellent place to visit for evening entertainment, shopping, cafés, and al-fresco dining.
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South African Naval Museum
Step inside a submarine and see a collection of naval guns, uniforms and naval equipments.
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Sunset Cruise on Spirit of Victoria
Board a romantic sail boat or vessel while you sip a glass of sparkling wine with your loved ones.
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The Garden at Babylonstoren
Take the opportunity to explore the wonderful acres of Babylonstoren's gardens. Team up with the gardeners for a fun and interactive experience.
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Two Oceans Aquarium
In Two Oceans Aquarium, the famous marine wildlives of Cape Town truly comes alive with over 3,000 living sea animals on display.
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Uthando
Uthando South Africa is an award winning, international and innovative Non Profit and Fair Trade certified organisation which raises funds for community development projects in Cape Town and South Africa.
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Visit the dramatic Capes
The stunning cliff scenery surrounding Cape Town is part of the dramatic South African coastline. Visit the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Agulhas for the beautiful views across the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, that meet at the most southern tip of Africa.
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Walk in the Company's Garden
Set in the City Bowl area of Cape Town, a walk around the Company's Garden is an introduction to the very origins of the city itself. Originally established in 1647, the Dutch East India Company used this garden to re-supply its ships passing the Cape.
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Warrior Toy Museum
During your Cape Peninsula tour, make a stop at this unique museum with over 4,000 model cars, as well as 500 dolls and teddy bears.
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West Coast National Park
Surrounded by the Langebaan Lagoon, this pristine wetland offers exceptional bird life, spring flowers and white beaches.
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Whale watching on the Western Cape
Southern right whales visit the Western Cape from about June to December every year. These beautiful gentle giants congregate to the shores of Hermanus all the way along the coast line towards Plettenberg Bay.
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Wine Tasting along the Constantia Wine Route
South Africa is well known for its exquisite Winelands and Constantia was one of the first wine-producing areas in the western cape, dating back to the 1600s, spend a day visiting the areas famous vineyards as you take in the beautiful scenery.
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Woodstock, Bo-Kaap & Bree for the Foodie
From artisan coffee and craft beer to traditional food, chocolate and cheese, taste your way around the city as you explore the backstreets and secrets alleys where the locals like to go.
Holiday Ideas
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Ultimate Antarctica: Emperors & South Pole
Cape Town, Wichaway Camp Antarctica, South Pole, Wichaway, Cape Town
from £71600 pp inc flights & transfers for 11 nights
- Reach the holy grail of the early explorers, the geographic South Pole
- Land at an Emperor penguin colony and join the very few to meet the real life stars of the March of the Penguins
- Private charter flight over thousands of icebergs as the African night turns to 24 hours of continuous sunshine
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Ultimate Antarctica: Emperors & South Pole
Cape Town, Wichaway Camp Antarctica, South Pole, Wichaway, Cape Town
from £71600 pp inc flights & transfers for 11 nights
- Reach the holy grail of the early explorers, the geographic South Pole
- Land at an Emperor penguin colony and join the very few to meet the real life stars of the March of the Penguins
- Private charter flight over thousands of icebergs as the African night turns to 24 hours of continuous sunshine
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Ultimate South Africa
Kalahari Reserve, Cape Town & Winelands
from £7200 pp inc flights & transfers for 9 nights
- With direct flights, private transfers and fast track service, step away from your cares for a faultless journey across the best of South Africa.
- Set your own agenda at Tswalu, where every guest has an expert private guide and vehicle at their disposal. From watching the sun rise over the desert with meerkats to chasing wild dogs across the plains, you are in control.
- Witness the history of South Africa as you tour Ellerman House’s unrivalled art collection with their in-house specialist guide.
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Ultimate South Africa and Mozambique
Cape Town, The Winelands, Madikwe & Benguerra Island
from £17000 pp inc flights & transfers for 14 nights
- The ultimate properties in South Africa and Mozambique
- Experience world class restaurants in the winelands and Cape Town
- See the highlights of the Cape with safari and a luxury beach destination to end
Location & directions
Bantry Bay, Cape Town, South Africa
Ellerman House boasts spectacular views over the Atlantic ocean, in Cape Town's elite suburb of Bantry Bay, just 10 minutes from the centre and Clifton beaches. Most of Cape Town's prime sightseeing attractions are in close proximity to Ellerman House. Robben Island can be seen from the terrace; the Cape's winelands are approximately thirty minutes away; and South Africa's finest beaches (Clifton and Camps Bay ) are around the corner.
How to get there
11-hours 50-minute British Airways flight from London Heathrow to Cape Town International Airport. The airport is a 35-minute drive from the hotel. Meet and greet at airport by Ellerman House representative - Private, chauffeur-driven airport transfers in air-conditioned courtesy cars.
- 100% financial protection
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- Firsthand knowledge
- Renowned service
- Award-winning tour operator
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