Set within a vast 440-hectare eco-reserve on South Africa’s southern coast, Saltwood emerges from the fynbos veld, revealing its thatched, bold bungalow bones. A beach house that discreetly asserts its perfection among the prevailing nature. Overlooking the long stretch of Boggoms Bay, just outside the town of Mossel Bay, this Garden Route hideaway secludes itself from the holiday crowds. The panoramic views of the landscape, the birdlife and the occasional wildlife, are all yours.
Perched above two and a half kilometres of white sand, Saltwood settles gracefully into the landscape. Contemporary in her stance, yet age-old in her demeanour. Designed to frame nature, rather than compete with it. Five beautiful ensuite bedrooms overlook the ocean’s shifting shades of blue.
The open-plan living, dining and fireside-reclining areas downstairs, open through wide sliding doors, onto a deck that extends into the sea. The kitchen is equipped with all of the essentials, a Lacanche gas range and twin fridge-freezers. A separate scullery ensures the remnants of the holiday feasting remains out of sight.
The swimming pool – sunlit and wind-sheltered – feels like an infinity of calm, as it rests at the back of the property. Many hours of the day will be spent on the sun loungers, around the built-in, shaded seating areas, cocooned from the elements. Late afternoon tea with a juicy novel whilst you let the lunch settle. Or long brunches and lingering nights beneath the stars.
Watching the dolphins dance
A short wander along the wooden walkways leads to the longest stretch of beach. Morning walks with the clan, doing cart wheels in the sand. No crowds, no noise, only the soft percussion of waves and the occasional dart of seabirds. Your days will unfold as you choose. The Garden Route stretches invitingly in both directions. World-class golf courses, Big Five reserves, hiking trails, fishing spots, and seaside towns within easy reach.
Gin distilleries and utterly delicious cheese shops. Yet somehow, time spent on the reserve at Saltwood will be the most valuable. The house itself feels like the destination. And there’s all of the land to explore, crossing paths with the occasional zebra, tortoise and springbok. Gleefully riding bikes with your hair flapping in the warm wind.
Yes, whatever’s on the cards, time loosens its grip. Letting each element of comfort enrapture you, and enhance every bonding moment enjoyed with the clan. Whether congregating together, or retreating somewhere calm and tranquil, there’ll be plenty of those moments when you have nothing you’d rather do, than watch the light shift across the Indian Ocean.
Written by Colleen Ogilvie