There are those of us that seek the simple holiday. The slow days and nights that stipulate rest and reconnection. Being in sync with nature’s motion. Just as it unfolds at Creek House, on the banks of the Kromrivier. Rising with the warm rays of light, taking in the surroundings in rhythm with the pulse of the Cape St Francis countryside.
Quietly absorbing the colours of the garden, the views of the landscape, and the salty scent of the sea just beyond that. stretching our languid limbs on the lawn as we greet the new day. Like the plovers and black oyster catchers would do. Preening and ruffling their feathers before they forage for breakfast.
Off we amble to the table. Under the pergola in the courtyard or on the front verandah overlooking the river. Sliding doors all open to allow the light, the morning chitter chatter, and the wafts of hot bakes and brews coming from the kitchen to engulf the four-bedroomed home. With it stretching across one expansive, laidback yet luxuriously-stitched-together level, all of the entertaining, dining, reclining and living areas seamlessly chaperone one another. Letting the vitality of the river and her ever-changing tide set the tempo for every space. An oh-so mellow flow of holiday bliss.
The Eastern Cape’s coastal village of Cape St Francis is revered for its slow-paced beach living. Where the warm waters of the Indian Ocean make it easy to surf, paddle, swim, sandcastle build around the clock. The centuries old Seal Point Lighthouse attracts the curious sailor among the clan. The burgeoning nature and floral reserves, hiking and mountain biking trails beckon the eager fitness beavers that like to jog for their suppers.
The charming community of laidback residents welcome you in to their tranquil town with an earnest familiarity. It’s a destination that offers all of the simple things we desire, for those simple seaside holidays. A butcher, a baker and low-key winemaker. A nutritional health store and convenience Spar Superette. All of the essentials are available for you and your travelling team, though you’ll find yourselves inclined to spend as much time as possible nesting at Creek House. Beneath the branches of the camphor bush in the courtyard. Listening to the birds declare the ways of the natural world.
The gentle rhythm of nature
Wherever you plant yourselves over the course of your stay, there will always be something new and invigorating to ponder. The river’s changing tide, the seclusion of the home ensuring no other properties are in sight. The indigenous garden with its long grasses and wild hedges, the blue of the plumbago that canvases the glass windows. The constant exchange between the indoors and outdoors. Drawing you out onto the pathway that leads you down to the water’s edge. Dipping into the calm, clear river and bobbing about for hours on end. Whatever the time of day, you’ll be abiding by that holiday notion of keeping it all simple. Seaside sweet and simple.
Written by Colleen Ogilvie