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Private villa living suspended between sea, city and sky

Where Cape Town’s Story Meets the Atlantic

Set above Bantry Bay, Ellerman House unfolds as a private residence shaped by history, art, conversation and the ever-changing rhythm of the ocean beyond its gardens.

A Legacy Rooted in a Singular Vision for South Africa

Ellerman House was never intended to be a conventional hotel. Built in 1906 as a grand seaside home, it has evolved over time into something far more personal. Its history remains visible throughout the house, alongside contemporary South African art, thoughtful hospitality and spaces that invite both reflection and connection. Above the Atlantic shoreline, guests are welcomed with the warmth, familiarity and ease of a private residence.

A Legacy Above the Atlantic

A Legacy Above the Atlantic

Set against the dramatic coastline of Bantry Bay, Ellerman House occupies one of Cape Town's most remarkable positions. The Atlantic stretches out below, while Lion's Head rises quietly behind the house. Guests move easily between ocean-facing balconies, intimate lounges, the library, wine gallery and the always-open guest pantry, where a late-night snack often turns into conversation. Every space encourages a slower pace and a different way of experiencing the city.

Spaces To Settle Into

Life at Ellerman House unfolds through a collection of spaces designed to be enjoyed rather than simply admired. Mornings begin on sunlit balconies overlooking the ocean. Afternoons drift between the art collection, shaded gardens and quiet corners perfect for reading or doing very little at all. The library offers a familiar sense of comfort, while the guest pantry captures the feeling of wandering through a welcoming home where something is always waiting for you. Throughout the house, heritage details sit comfortably alongside contemporary South African character. Nothing feels overly formal. Everything feels naturally considered.

Private villa living suspended between sea, city and sky

Where Art Lives Within The House

Art is not displayed here. It is lived with. One of South Africa's most significant private collections runs throughout the house, spanning more than two centuries of creative expression. Historic landscapes sit alongside contemporary works, creating conversations across generations. Together, the collection reflects the cultural, social and artistic story of South Africa, while remaining an integral part of daily life within the house.

A House Set Within The Landscape

Ellerman House feels inseparable from its surroundings. The indigenous gardens were carefully replanted with species once native to this coastline, restoring a landscape that belongs naturally to the Cape. Paths wind through proteas, aloes and layered greenery, while open balconies frame uninterrupted views of the Atlantic. The light changes constantly. So does the mood of the ocean.

From the scent of salt carried through the gardens to evenings spent watching the horizon soften into dusk, nature becomes part of everyday life. Cape Town is not experienced from a distance, but through the atmosphere and sense of place that runs throughout the property.

Your Place Within The House

Each room and suite carries its own character and perspective. Individually designed, they balance the comfort of a private home with understated luxury, creating spaces that feel personal, elegant and closely connected to the landscape surrounding Ellerman House.

Your Stay At The House

At Ellerman House, no two stays unfold in quite the same way. Each room carries its own mood, shaped by shifting Atlantic light, curated art, and quiet detail. Some open wide to the ocean, others hold a softer stillness.
Classic House Room with warm interiors and curated art

Classic House Room

30 | King-Size Bed

A quietly positioned room where soft natural light and calm interiors create a sense of retreat away from the ocean-facing spaces of Ellerman House.
Superior House Room bathed in natural light with sea views

Superior House Room

30 | King-Size Bed

Filled with natural light, these rooms look towards Bantry Bay, where sea views and peaceful interiors exist in easy balance.
Deluxe Spa Room with serene interiors

Deluxe Spa Room

37 | King-Size Bed

Located beside the spa and opening onto a shared balcony these rooms extend indoor comfort into relaxed outdoor spaces facing the water.
Deluxe House Room with a private terrace

Deluxe House Room

44 | King-Size Bed

Framed by ocean and garden views, these rooms open onto private balconies where the Atlantic light shifts gently throughout the day.
Ellerman House Suite with elegant living space and ocean views

Ellerman House Suites

102 | King-Size Bed

A spacious suite where living, dining and sleeping areas flow onto a private balcony framed by art and Atlantic views.
Each room offers its own expression of Ellerman House, waiting to be discovered.
ELLERMAN HOUSE VILLAS

Ellerman House Villas

Carved into the granite cliffs, these contemporary residences combine spacious living areas, private balconies and panoramic ocean views. Designed for guests seeking privacy and comfort, each villa features dedicated hospitality, elegant interiors and generous outdoor spaces where changing Atlantic light and the surrounding landscape become part of the experience.

Explore Private Villas