South Africa: the hotel between vineyards and whale watching

The Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa, South Africa's premier golf and spa hotel is situated in the heart of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, surrounded by one of the richest plant kingdoms in the world.  The hotel is adjacent to the Rooisands Nature Reserve, bordered by the pristine Bot River Lagoon and embraced by the rugged steep cliffs of the majestic Kogelberg Mountains. 

Only 15 minutes from the whale watchers haven of Hermanus and just over an hour from Cape Town, the hotel is an all-year round hub of discovery for adrenaline seekers and the not-so-adventurous. The destination offers an endless array of exciting activities, all within a short drive from the hotel. 

A true playground for travellers, the Arabella Western Cape Hotel & Spa is a magical oasis for families. Children find an abundance of activities and attractions that will deliver treasured memories and enrich their spirits. Spark their imagination with themed adventures and supervised childrens' programmes.  Balou's Play Den offers jungle gyms, a putt-putt course, board games, DVD's, arts and crafts, books and toys for children between the ages of 4 and 12. A heated outdoor lap pool and large swimming pool ensures all-season water fun.  Babysitting arrangements can be made for parents to enjoy essential quality alone time. 

See whales cavort in Walker Bay from the shores of Hermanus or enjoy a close encounter with these gentle ocean giants from a kayak or boat. The boat trips also bring you unequalled engagements with Great White Sharks, Dolphins and other marine life.  Shark Cage Diving offers the daring a chance to test their courage in face to face meetings with Great Whites. 

Experience excellent wines and dining at some of the finest and most recognised wine farms in South Africa, only minutes from the hotel.  Explore old cellars, softly lit and filled with aromas of oak and fruit, or enjoy sunset wine tastings while absorbing the beauty of far-reaching Vineyards. 

Engage in exhilarating outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding or quad-biking through enchanted forests, mountain trails or coastal paths. Paddle a kayak at sea or go white water rafting down the surging currents of the pristine Palmiet River. 

Discover indigenous fynbos, wild flowers and an abundance of rare birdlife on the Bot River Lagoon, or in the surrounding majestic mountains of the Kogelberg Biosphere. Take leisurely strolls through the Harold Porter Botanical Gardens or bask in the sun on the soft white sand of Kleinmond Beach.  With its big waves and open waters, surfing is also a popular sport in this blue flagged strand. 

Take scenic drives to uncover the many cultural and heritage treasures the region has to offer. The meandering mountain pass along the coast leads you to unspoilt beaches and penguin colonies. Narrow roads covered by shady trees will take you to quaint towns with old-world charm.  The way to Hermanus is lined with markets, museums and arts and crafts shops, as well as the Hemel & Aarde Valley where you can absorb the culture of the Overberg.

Driving Directions 

Take the N2 from Cape Town heading towards Somerset West and continue until you reach Sir Lowry's Pass. Continue over this pass and then turn left onto the R43 (to Hermanus). Continue on this road for approximately 20km until R44 (Kleinmond sign) where you turn right. Follow the road for about 3km until you see the Arabella Country Estate sign on your left. Or take the spectacularly scenic coastal route from Gordon's Bay (off the N2 from Cape Town), passing through Betty's Bay and Kleinmond. Follow the road for about 8km until you see the Arabella Country Estate sign on your right. The hotel is situated on the Arabella Country Estate.

Arrival by flight: 
Take the N2 from Cape Town International Airport and follow above directions.

From Caledon:
Take the N2 west towards Cape Town and then turn left onto the R43 (to Hermanus). Continue on this road for approximately 20km until R44 (Kleinmond sign) where you turn right. Follow the road for about 3km until you see the Arabella Country Estate sign on your left. The hotel is situated in the Arabella Country Estate. 

Please contact the hotel for transfer bookings and rental car arrangements.

Parking

• Free outdoor parking spaces

Distances

• Distance to the closest public transport in Hermanus:  27 km
• Distance to the closest motorway: approximately 6 km
• Distance to the closest airport: 70 km

Distances to sights in South Africa

• Hermanus
  The harbour town of Hermanus, just 20 minutes away, is famous around the world. From the town, whales can often be seen in the bay. The spectacle of the likeable ocean mammals is incredibly impressive, and is a must-see item on any tour of South Africa. The Southern Right Whales, which can measure up to 18 m in length, swim as close as 10 to 20 m from the shore.
  
  
• Cape Town
  Lively Cape Town is just an hour from the hotel. The modern city with its popular Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Table Mountain and the famous gastronomy scene all make a day trip very tempting. A drive along the Winelands Route is just the right thing for gourmets. A tour of the national parks is also among the highlights of a trip to South Africa. We are glad to assist you in planning an unforgettable tour.