THE FACTS ABOUT AFRICAN BEACH

South_Africa

Fans of the southern right whale descend on the sleepy town of Hermanus, on South Africa's Western Cape, from June until December, to see them play in the surf. They come in so close that you can watch them from the clifftops. Birkenhead House sits on its own promontory, so guests can watch the action while sipping bubbly out on the terrace. The hotel has just expanded into the house next door, which sleeps 12, is filled with contemporary art and has its own chef and staff. It offers total privacy, direct access to the beach and safe swimming waters. Doubles from R6,250 (about £385); house from about £1,560 (00 27 15 793 0150; www.birkenheadhouse.com) SEE CNTRAVELLER.COM'S GUIDES TO SOUTH AFRICA HERE