Last Updated on July 11, 2023 by Lauren Melnick
Hermanus is one of my favourite weekend getaways from Cape Town in the winter. In under two hours, you can watch whales from the shore, dine at sea-side restaurants and conquer some of the most scenic hikes in the Overberg.
During my last visit, I stayed at the beautiful One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel. It’s affordable luxury at it’s best with every modern convenience you could want.
If you want to get away from the city for a few days and take in Hermanus’ beautiful views, wineries and spot some whales from your private balcony – this is the perfect place for you.
Here’s what it’s like staying at One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel!
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How to Get to One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel
One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel is a short 1.5 hours drive from Cape Town. For a scenic, unforgettable ride take the R44 route over the N2.
It’s one of my favourite coastal roads in South Africa. It starts in Strand and winds past Gordan Bay, hugging the dramatic cliff face all the way around to Pringle Bay, Betty’s Bay and Kleinmond.
If you have the time, I highly recommend stopping at Stony Point Nature Reserve to see the penguins!
About The Property
One Marine Drive is a boutique, five-star hotel in Hermanus. It’s part of the Cape Collection and is within easy walking distance of Hermanus’ famous Cliff Path – one of the best places in the world for shore-based whale watching!
While staying here, you’ll wake up to beautiful coastal views, unmatched service and an Insta-worthy pool that deserves a dip (even if it’s a toe) any time of the year.
The decor of the hotel has captured the vibe of Hermanus. From the colour scheme to the finishings, everything invites the sights and smells of the sea-side town inside. The atmosphere is laid-back, luxurious and you’ll quickly slip into R&R mode.
Despite One Marine Drive’s five-star status, it’s an affordable luxe option. Depending on when you book, you can expect to pay anywhere from R1,800 to R3,000 a night for two people!
The Rooms
The five-star hotel is home to five luxurious, sea-facing rooms with private balconies that overlook Walker Bay and the surrounding coastline.
As soon as you walk into your room, you’ll be greeted by One Marine Drive’s signature scent! It’s a heavenly smell, and I highly recommend bringing some home with you as a souvenir to remember your holiday.
Here’s what you can expect to find inside each room:
- Free WiFi
- A complimentary iPad (!!!)
- Private bathroom with a massive shower
- Plug points that come with USB points
- Big fluffy gowns and slippers
- A flat-screen TV with DSTV
- Complimentary Amarula
- Complimentary coffee and tea
- Complimentary toiletries
- Air conditioning
- A hairdryer
Food + Drink
During my stay at One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel, I had a complimentary breakfast. Your morning will start with a buffet of fresh fruit, bread, croissants, cheese, crackers, muesli, yoghurt, a freshly brewed pot of coffee and orange juice.
You can also indulge in their “hot breakfast menu”. As a vegan, I asked the kitchen to leave out the eggs and bacon. Instead, I had a sizeable portion of toast, baked beans, mushrooms and grilled tomato.
There isn’t an on-site restaurant at One Marine Drive, but there are plenty of restaurants, only a short drive away. I didn’t feel up to sitting down for a meal, so I grabbed a take-away, and the staff laid the table for me by the fireplace to enjoy my meal!
The manager on service even organised a plug for me to charge my phone, so I didn’t have to go upstairs to fetch mine. That kind of service really made my stay an exceptional experience!
What to Do in Hermanus
Cliff Path Walk: The Cliff Path is the most popular thing to do in Hermanus. It’s one of the best places in the world for land-based whale watching. If you’re lucky, the whales sometimes swim as close to 5 meters from the shore!
Klipgat Cave: If you’re a hiker or landscape photographer, you don’t want to miss out on exploring Klipgat Cave. It’s located inside Walker Bay Nature Reserve and the 7km trail starts at Gansbaai Harbour.
Hermanus Wine Hoppers: Hermanus Wine Hoppers is similar to the popular Franschhoek Wine Tram. You’ll hop on board safari-style vehichles and make your way to some of the top wineries in the area such as Spookfontein and Newton Johnson.
Whale Watching Tours: If you want to get up close and personal with the whales (and you’re visiting between July and October) sign up for a whale watching tour. It’s worth every cent, and you’ll be in prime position to watch the gentle giants breach with their newborns.
What I Think of One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel
Honestly, it was love at first sight. From the warm welcome at reception to my excitement of seeing USB points in the plug sockets and of course the gorgeous decor, I can confidently give One Marine Drive a 12/10.
With affordable prices, five-star service and gorgeous views – One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel is the perfect getaway for couples exploring Hermanus that want that extra attention to detail. Or solo travellers that are after a little sea-side pampering.
Plus, there aren’t many places in the world where you can spot whales from the comfort of your balcony!
Thank you for One Marine Drive Boutique Hotel for inviting me to their property! As always, all opinions are my own.
Psst…Want more South Africa travel inspiration? Check out my other posts:
- Top Romantic Getaways in South Africa
- 6 Romantic Places in South Africa for Adventurous Couples
- Staying at Makarios on the River in Kenton-on-Sea
- Staying at Whispering Oaks in George, South Africa
- 6 Incredible Weekend Getaways From Cape Town
- Staying at Teniqua Treetops in Knysna
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