The Marine Hermanus

Trying springbok for the first time at the hotel restaurant was a nice surprise, it was really good. The rest of our two-night stay was nearly perfect too: we had the top suite for close to ZAR 50,000, the room and facilities were excellent, and most of the staff were great. Check-out on the morning of 3 February changed the impression. The lady manager insisted on charging us for a bottle of water we asked for, even though complimentary bottled water was provided daily and the suite included a minibar. She added it to a bill that had already been generated, which felt awkward and unnecessary for a luxury hotel. This wasn't about the money. Her rigid, dismissive manner and repeated references to “hotel policy” made us feel as if we were trying to get out of paying, which was insulting given the room we booked and what we had already spent. The manager who helped us at check-in and during the stay had been warm, attentive, and good at finding solutions. We are sure she would have handled this professionally, and the stay could have been perfect. It's disappointing that one staff member's judgment and attitude can undo so much of an otherwise near-perfect visit. First impressions count, and so do the last ones.

Superb High Tea Dear Heloise and Marine Team, thank you so much for Friday. The care you took with all the details and our comfort made the experience really special. Every conversation, sip, and bite gave us something memorable to look back on for a long time. We truly appreciate the gracious gesture and all the delicious food. We hope to bring our family and friends for high tea soon.

The views are outstanding, and the sea path starts right there. Hermanus town centre is about a five-minute walk away, so the hotel feels peaceful and tucked away while still being close to town. The staff were upbeat and welcoming throughout, and did more than we could have asked. Since I was playing golf before breakfast began, they put together a substantial takeaway breakfast for me. The breakfast menu and setup were especially good, and the food and drinks were exquisite. Rooms are exceptional, and the turndown service was a lovely extra. Probably the best place I've ever stayed. We can't wait to return.

Breakfast had an unbelievable range, and we also thought lunch and dinner at the hotel were outstanding. It was lovely to have lunch by the pool, take morning walks along the cliff path just outside, and pop over to the nearby tidal pool for a refreshing dip. The ocean views from the hotel on the cliff were panoramic and changed beautifully through the day. We were there during whale season, and whenever a whale appeared offshore, staff and guests would hurry out to the terrace to watch. The rooms were elegant and comfortable, with everything well appointed. We tried both a suite and a luxury room and would happily recommend either. The staff made us feel welcome every day, chatted about our plans, and helped arrange taxis and restaurant suggestions. They also organized an easy car transfer to and from Creation Winery. The whole stay felt luxurious but still warm and welcoming. I can't picture staying anywhere else in Hermanus.