Once upon a time, many a moons ago, the owners of Breede Riverhouse 327 bumped into each other along the bustling corridors of their high school and discussed their impending holiday plans. Upon discovering that they would both be venturing to the Breede River, they arranged to meet up.
Many journeys around the sun later, as husband and wife, they came across a spectacular spot with a humble house upon the same river banks they’d frolicked along as wee young teens. This would be the spot for them to plant some roots and create new memories as a family.
According to the owners, it was the river that chose them rather than them choosing the river. For years they frequented the place that introduced them to young love, an appreciation for the wild meandering river, its secret beaches and venturesome hiking and biking trails. It became the place that represents half a lifetime’s escape into nature, and harbours the memories that have been ardently created over the years, and all the ones that are still to be made.
A neighbourly wave and nod from the river’s community of boaters, kayakers, skiers and swimmers, as the action on the water is underway, is almost mandatory. The affection is palpable. So much so, it’s likely the odd few river friends will park their boats up against the jetty, or drag the canoes up the slipway and plant themselves on the deck, around the boma, snack on a boerie roll, sip on a generous gin and tonic, with a large side order of good old river banter.
A tranquil river retreat
After some unfortunate flooding in 2008, the original house was washed away and so began the laudable build of a perfect hideaway that discreetly reveals itself from the billowing hills it nestles beneath.
Six gorgeous bedrooms and five bathrooms wing the main body of the house that’s open plan, connecting the fully-equipped modern kitchen to the dining space that sits adjacent the cosy living space and its inviting wood burning stove. Solid American walnut floors – audaciously laid by the husband of the home – run the length of the living spaces with retractable doors opening out to a long, wrap-around verandah with comfy recliners and seating spaces, a fabulous open braai area and views of the magnificent surroundings from every angle.
A separate cottage with its own bathroom sits behind the lovely back courtyard and its milkwood tree for those that like that little extra space from the rowdy crowd that’ll be emphatically telling stories around the fire pit or throwing some darts, perhaps cartwheeling across the lawn or just hanging out under the stars, listening to the water gently lap against the banks. You will cherish this family weekend getaway as you drift off with the sweet sounds of familial love and laughter.
Breede Riverhouse 327 is a place that invites memories to be made, of jumping from the six metre rock that’s just around the bend into the river, or picnicking on a sandy beach that’s just around another bend, where the space is vast enough for a competitive round of beach volleyball.
If you crave the serenity and natural beauty of the countryside, and Breede Riverhouse 327 is already booked, check out our other options for country living.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie
Edited by Dawn Kennedy