Birkenhead House is the most opulent place to stay on the Whale Coast. Located on a rocky promontory in Hermanus, stairs lead down the cliffs directly to the shore: you’re in the heart of the whale action in season here. A variety of themes has inspired the décor of the house, from rustic Provencal to decadent French baroque; the one thing all the rooms have in common is wonderful attention to detail and the use of the finest possible materials, creating a retreat that feels luxurious and indulgent. The food is amongst the very best you’ll find in the whole Cape region, and there is even a spa to help unwind at the end of a day’s whale watching.