A sudden sense of stillness takes over as you meander your way down the not-so beaten pathway towards the back door of Church Cottage. Having felt obliged to turn your car engine off on the way down, engaging in neutral and free-rolling the gravel road, in keeping with the sounds of what surrounds, you know you have arrived in Churchhaven up the Cape’s West Coast.
This classically styled cottage opens its stoic wooden doors to the heartbeat of the home, where the kitchen, dining and living space stretches itself open-plan. The kitchen cupboards are completely kitted out with all of the practicality one desires when cooking up friend and family feasts. But it’s the whimsical antique whisks, and cheese graters that you’ll have the most fun within a linen apron on loan.
Books, board games and binoculars are there for those moments when you’d rather not be swimming, kayaking, exploring, or sofa-snoring. The large open fireplace in the living room is a temptress at her best for wintry days and nights, but the cottage’s close proximity to the water’s edge will keep your feet yearning for that final evening stroll on the soft, white sand. After which, it’s a toss up over who’s having a long bath in the Victorian tub, who’s starting the pizza oven on the verandah, and who’s pouring the wine.
The joys of a life lived simply…
At night, gentle hues of candlelight flicker from floor to ceiling of the cottage, warming up the shaggy rugs, wide-open armchairs, long sofas and dinner conversation.
You’ll awake to the internal church bells of calm calling – who’s getting married in the morning? You. To the lagoon that you’ve lusted over all night, pondering the depths of its tantalizingly tranquil turquoise waters. You’ll be wearing your kikoi and you’ll look just perfect.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie
Edited by Michelle Snaddon