Perched on the slopes of Lion’s Head in the prestigious Bantry Bay area, Ellerman House Cape Town redefines luxury with its elegant historic charm. This boutique hotel captures the essence of coastal sophistication with spectacular Atlantic Ocean views stretching to the horizon and verdant indigenous gardens surrounding the property.
Beyond its stunning aesthetics, Ellerman House Cape Town aims to create a genuine home-away-from-home experience through attentive service, sumptuous furnishings, and a subtly relaxed atmosphere that invites guests to unwind.
The property’s rich history begins in 1906 when it was built as Florida House, later acquiring its current name from shipping magnate Sir John Ellerman. In 1988, Paul Harris, co-founder of the Rand Bank empire, purchased the estate with a vision that transformed it completely. Under his ownership, Ellerman House Cape Town evolved into a living art gallery housing over 1,000 pieces – now recognised as the most significant private collection of South African art in the country.
A celebration of South African art
The art collection at Ellerman House Cape Town spans from paintings depicting early settler life by artists like Thomas Bowler to contemporary works by artists such as William Kentridge. Walking through the property feels like exploring a curated museum where each piece tells a story of South Africa’s rich cultural heritage.
This artistic approach extends to the accommodation, with each of the 13 individually styled rooms and suites featuring eye-catching South African art and exquisite decor. Hotel accommodations include Classic House Rooms, Superior House Rooms, Deluxe Spa Rooms, Deluxe House Rooms, and Ellerman House Suites, ranging in size from 30m² to 102m².
For those seeking ultimate privacy, Ellerman House Cape Town offers two exclusive-use villas. They provide the perfect combination of contemporary luxury and exclusivity, featuring private entertainment areas and ocean views. Villa One welcomes guests of all ages, while Villa Two accommodates children over eight years old.
A wine connoisseur’s paradise
A highlight of the Ellerman House Cape Town experience is the impressive private wine collection, containing 9,000 bottles of South Africa’s finest labels. The interactive cellar features temperature-controlled areas, a multi-media wine library, a brandy-tasting lounge, and a Champagne cellar.
Guests can enjoy daily sunset wine tastings led by knowledgeable staff who guide them through the nuances of South African viticulture. This immersive experience offers insight into the country’s winemaking history and diverse terroirs, making it a must for oenophiles.
Culinary excellence with a local twist
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The culinary experience at Ellerman House Cape Town gives South Africa’s rich food heritage an inventive modern spin, offering what many describe as the finest dining experience in the city. The menu includes perennial favourites like Cape Malay curry and fresh lobster, all prepared with locally sourced ingredients.
Committed to sustainability, the kitchen supports sustainable seafood practices and local fishing communities. Guests also have access to a complimentary 24-hour pantry stocked with fresh fruit, baked goods, and beverages – another thoughtful touch that enhances the home-away-from-home atmosphere.
BAR ROC provides a sensational sundowner spot where guests can sip expertly crafted cocktails while watching the sun dip below the Atlantic horizon. The bar’s sleek design and panoramic views create an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication that epitomises the Ellerman House Cape Town experience.
Wellness and relaxation
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For those seeking rejuvenation, the luxurious spa at Ellerman House Cape Town provides a calm oasis amidst the property’s lush gardens. An experienced team offers treatments such as massages and facials using premium products that showcase indigenous botanicals.
The wellness facilities also include a small gym, sauna, and steam room. Outside, the gardens are a celebration of the Cape Floral Kingdom, bursting with indigenous fynbos. These thoughtfully landscaped grounds provide tranquil spaces for reflection and relaxation as guests take in the magnificent coastal scenery.
Bespoke experiences
A world-class luxury concierge service connects guests with the best of Cape Town and beyond, arranging bespoke experiences from art tours and wine tastings to city exploration and safari itineraries. The property’s prime location offers easy access to key attractions like Clifton/Camps Bay beaches, the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, and Robben Island.
Ellerman House Cape Town is a place that encourages guests to slow down and be spoiled, offering a truly authentic and world-class South African experience. Rates start from $1,100 per night for a Classic House Room, while the Villas start from $9,500 per night, reflecting the exceptional quality and exclusivity of this remarkable destination.
Quick summary – Ellerman House Cape Town
- ⭐ Style: Historic boutique hotel with refined coastal luxury
- 📍 Location: Bantry Bay, Cape Town, South Africa
- 🏨 Accommodation: 13 rooms and suites (30–102 sqm) + 2 villas (432–696 sqm)
- 🎨 Art: Over 1,000 works forming South Africa’s most significant private collection
- 🍷 Wine: 9,000-bottle cellar with daily guided tastings and multimedia wine library
- 🥘 Dining: Modern South African cuisine featuring Cape Malay curry and fresh lobster, with a sustainability focus
- 💆 Wellness: Spa, gym, sauna, steam room, and indigenous fynbos gardens
- 🌍 Experiences: Concierge-arranged art tours, wine tastings, and access to city and safari highlights
- 💵 Rates: From $1,100 per night (rooms), $9,500 per night (villas)
