Situated on the cliff edge overlooking the glorious Atlantic ocean, The Marine is one of the most spectacular luxury hotels I have ever stayed at. Part of the Mcgrath Collection this establishment overlooks Walker Bay and is the ultimate Whale watching location in Hermanus. I can now safely say first hand that The Collection holds three world-class hotels.
Hermanus is an old fisherman's village which has become one of the most popular whale watching towns in the Western Cape. A two-hour drive from Cape Town, The Marine is a getaway that will offer you all that you need.
With uninterrupted sea views, the hotel boasts many sea facing rooms - which is a must if you are visiting!
The hotel dates back to 1902 and is steeped in history which can be found around every corner. Once placed in Liz McGrath's hands the grand lady was refurbished and brought into the 21st Century while honouring the hotel's unique heritage in 1998.
The rooms are the ultimate luxury with calming colours and crisp white sheets. We stayed in the Princess suite that left me utterly speechless. A double volume room with a walk-in closet and lounge area that overlooks the ocean. The attention to detail comes right down to the coffee machine and handwritten welcome note. To be honest it is the first room I have stayed in where I didn't even want to go down for dinner but rather have room service instead.
Speaking of room service; let’s talk about the food - which, granted, can be challenging with a mouth full of delicious starters or mains or dessert. Once a feast has kicked off, it is difficult to stop. I have had the privilege of visiting all three hotels that comprise the Liz Mcgrath Collection and I can easily say (excluding The Green House which is in a league of its own) that Origins at The Marine is my favourite. The food is just simply YUM. Bistro style and nothing complicated - Simple, beautiful cuisine. The flavours are perfect and each meal left me wanting more! There is something to be said for simple food done really well. It's my second time visiting and I will return again regardless of where I stay in Hermanus. If you are doing the same - be sure to book and try the bouillabaisse and the apple tart for dessert.
With an on-site Spa, you might find it hard to leave the hotel. Don't worry, there is no judgement here because the same might or might not have happened to me. Book in advance and get your relaxation in with a full body massage or why not take some time out to detox in the steam room. No matter which treatment you choose you are sure to feel pampered and spoiled.
Whether you find yourself in town over whale season or not, be sure to take a walk down the cliff path and get lost in the beauty that is Hermanus and its ocean views. You will find dassies bouncing around that will certainlyput a smile on your face!