We go west for a number of reasons. Not because the Pet Shop Boys are telling us to do so. Yes, life is peaceful there, in the open air and all of the other sentiments of that song. But mostly because it’s one of those destinations that hauls out the wilderness within ourselves. Tickles that reckless abandon to rules and beckons the barefoot beach walking and exploring. Settling into nature’s stride with intention.
The West Coast is a wondrous place for exploration, adventure and calm. Being in harmony with what’s going on around you, mirrored by the breathtakingly beautiful landscape and married to the temperament that comes with it. Having a holiday in Yzerfontein is always riveting, always inspiring and equally always revitalising.
That’s what it’s like at Cape Cottage. Hovering over the ocean like a seagull on the edge of its cliff. Watching the waves, the whales and the dolphins. The ever-changing landscape and the light that travels through the day like a kaleidoscope of ephemeral colours.
The gardens adding to the mood with their shapes and verdant tones that invite you into the pacifying outdoor spaces. Ancient aloes and indigenous succulents sourced over the years to create a little Southern African oasis. The long deck and dreamy swimming pool that merges with the Atlantic Ocean. Indoors to the open-plan living, dining, cooking and entertaining spaces. The bedrooms and bathrooms, the reading nooks and fireside spots.
All furnished in that archetypal beach bungalow attire. Honouring local designers, artisans and community craftsmen. Parlaying the sentiment, “local is lekker” into an exhibition of resourcefulness, with a nod to sustainability. An apparent curation of the real jewels of the African continent.
Cape Cod to Cape Town
With all of the evocative statements being made around the home and leading you out into the wilderness of the West Coast, you’ll be inclined to tend to the hours of your holiday with absolute ease. No urgency for anything, other than the next dose of vitamin sea. A long beach walk – that’s so secluded from any main cluster of shoreline activity – it’ll feel like your own private nature reserve, as you meander along the beautiful pathways.
Head down to Grounded eatery for a healthy breakfast, then back for a swim in the pool or a nap in the garden. Books, boardgames and beer tasting at the nearby Yzer Bru brewery. Then back onto the beach for some more walking and sunset swings. Working up an appetite for the pizza making and feasting in the garden. Some nights will be Italian, others will be oh-so-South African around the braai. Whatever’s on the menu, there’ll be plenty of toasting to the day. Saluting the setting sun with your chilled glass of whatever you fancy.
Allowing the wilderness to haul at those childlike heartstrings of yours, letting those long, loose locks dance in the Yzerfontein breeze of holiday bliss.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie