There are certain times of year when Cape Town feels particularly magical. September brings the first real promise of spring, the Atlantic begins to soften, gardens burst into colour and, out beyond the cliffs, the Southern Right whales return to the Cape coast. At Ellerman House, we like to think of whale season as another reason to linger a little longer over breakfast.
Imagine settling onto the terrace with a leisurely breakfast, coffee in hand and the Atlantic stretching endlessly ahead. And then, somewhere in the distance, a tell-tale spout breaks the surface. Southern Right whales visit the Western Cape between June and November, with September and October offering some of the best opportunities for sightings. Cape Town Tourism has more information on whale watching in the region.
From Ellerman House, guests can enjoy the ever-changing drama of the Atlantic from the comfort of the terrace, while our Concierge team can arrange a closer encounter further along the coast. Yassir and Shinay know the Cape exceptionally well and can create anything from a relaxed day exploring the coast to a more adventurous whale-watching experience in Hermanus.
And if you are wondering where the whales really put on a show, Hermanus is the place to go. The annual Hermanus Whale Festival takes place from 2–4 October 2026, celebrating the return of the Southern Right whales with a distinctly South African mix of marine conservation, culture and entertainment. Hermanus Whale Festival has the latest festival information.
Of course, Yassir and Shinay’s repertoire extends well beyond whales. They can arrange private art experiences, hidden coastal walks, exceptional wine experiences, Cape Peninsula adventures and those wonderfully spontaneous days where the only plan is to see where the Cape takes you.
On 24 September, South Africa celebrates Heritage Day – and at Ellerman House, we have our own delicious way of marking the occasion.
Our Ellerman House Braai brings together one of South Africa’s great culinary traditions with the relaxed elegance of the House. Expect the unmistakable aroma of something sizzling over the fire, beautiful Cape views, good wine and the sort of long lunch that somehow turns into the afternoon.
Because if there is one thing we believe strongly in, it is that heritage is best celebrated around a table.
For those looking to discover more of the culinary side of the House, explore our Cuisine at Ellerman House, from relaxed dining to our intimate, wine-led Curate experience.
September is also one of the loveliest months to explore beyond the city. The Western Cape’s wildflowers are in bloom, the Winelands begin to wake up after winter and the Cape’s landscapes take on that unmistakable fresh-green, springtime glow.
For something a little different, the Darling Wildflower Show runs from 18–20 September 2026, while Fernkloof Nature Reserve’s annual flower show offers another opportunity to experience the region’s remarkable fynbos. SA Venues has further information on events taking place across the Western Cape.
And then there is the city itself – galleries, exhibitions, restaurants, live music and the ever-changing cultural calendar that makes Cape Town so much fun to explore.
Back at Ellerman House, art is very much part of everyday life. Our collection of more than 1,000 works spans more than two centuries of South African artistic and cultural history, with private guided art tours available for in-house guests.
By December, the mood shifts completely. Cape Town is in full summer swing, with long evenings, warm days and that unmistakable festive energy. The city’s outdoor concert season gets underway, with Live performing at Kirstenbosch on 8 and 9 December 2026, among the many summer events taking place across the city. Time Out Cape Town offers more information on the city’s summer music calendar.
And for guests looking to make the most of summer without having to think about the details, our Villa Inclusive Offer makes a stay at Ellerman House even more effortless. From 1 December, Villa stays include all meals and wines, allowing guests to settle in, slow down and enjoy the House on their own terms – whether that means a long breakfast overlooking the Atlantic, an afternoon by the pool, a private dinner, an art-filled afternoon or simply doing absolutely nothing at all.
Discover our private villas and experience the space, privacy and personalised service that make a villa stay at Ellerman House so special.
Perhaps that is what makes a stay at Ellerman House feel different. It is not simply about having somewhere beautiful to sleep. It is about having the Cape at your fingertips – with people who know it intimately and can open doors to experiences you might never find on your own.
One morning you could be watching a Southern Right whale breach from the terrace. By afternoon, you might be tasting wine in the Winelands. The next day could involve a private art experience, a coastal adventure or a beautifully unplanned lunch that Yassir or Shinay somehow managed to organise. And, if all else fails, there is always the terrace.
Come for the view. Stay for the whales. Leave with a few stories of your own.
Discover Ellerman House and begin planning your Cape Town escape.
Continue exploring perspectives from Ellerman House and beyond through stories centred on design, cuisine, wine, culture and place. Each article offers a deeper connection to the people, landscapes and experiences shaping contemporary life in Cape Town.
