EH Logo Single Line - Black

Menu

Book a Table

The Cape Floral Kingdom

Our charming and much-loved city sits at the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom, which is recognised for its remarkable diversity of plant life, including thousands of endemic species you won’t find anywhere else in the world. The lush gardens at Ellerman House are a celebration of this natural heritage; an indigenous oasis inspired by Cape Town’s world-renowned Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden.

Working on the advice of its botanists, the one-and-a-half acre site has become a showpiece of iconic species from all over the country. Various plants, synonymous with other regions of South Africa, like statuesque aloes from the Eastern Cape and succulents from the Karoo, complement the impressive architectural features of Ellerman House and blend seamlessly into the other foliage.

Terraced lawns

On the sea-facing side of the property, a series of terraced lawns edged with aromatic Cape fynbos frame the spectacular ocean views. Sheltered from the prevailing Southeaster wind that blows in summer, the gardens and swimming pool are idyllic spaces in which to relax and enjoy all that the hotel has to offer. Pincushions, proteas, ericas, reed-like restios, scented pelargonium and buchu are typical of this part of the garden.  In front of the restaurant’s terrace, vibrant lion’s tail and strelitzias make a colourful show and also attract various species of birds.

The major benefit of having indigenous species is that these plants are well suited to the Cape’s hot, dry summers and are therefore extremely water wise. The gardens are at their most vibrant in spring when many of the species are in bloom, while in summer, late-flowering proteas create a dramatic display against the backdrop of the ocean.

Outdoor Art

A unique aspect of Ellerman House is its vast collection of South African art displayed throughout the property. The collection encompasses an intriguing cross-section of genres representing two hundred years of the country’s history and greatly enriching the guest experience at our beautiful house on the hill.

The gardens play an important role in providing outdoor gallery space for a number of eye-catching contemporary sculptures which punctuate the landscape throughout the year with enlivening colour and texture.

The Ellerman House Experience

Showcasing the very best of South Africa, from exceptional experiences and spirit-stirring art to mouthwatering cuisine, the world’s finest wines and the calm oasis of our in-house spa.

View All Experiences

We love what we do

From the very best of local design and art to cuisine, wine and hospitality, Ellerman House strives to offer a world-class guest experience that remains authentically South African.

Learn More Giving Back
Awards
Conde Nast Traveler - Readers Choice Awards 2020 Conde Nast Traveler - Readers Choice Awards 2021 Conde Nast Traveler - Readers Choice Awards 2022 Conde Nast Traveler - Readers Choice Awards 2023 Conde Nast Traveler - Gold List 2020
Contact Us

Email:

Phone: +27 21 430 3200

Find Us

180 Kloof Road,

Bantry Bay, 8005

Cape Town, South Africa

Policies

Privacy Policy

Terms & Conditions

Associations

Hotel Villas Gallery About Us Blog