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For many generations, Plettenberg Bay has been revered as a hot spot for family holidays, where everyone gathers together, at special times of the year, for a restful – and often raucous – reunion. Lauded for its long stretches of beautiful beaches, rocky peninsula hiking trails, and lush, tropical wilderness, the Garden Route’s star seaside possie earnestly answers to the call for holiday calm, amongst a community of like-minded, laid-back nature enthusiasts.

Such is the case with the owners of The Djinn Palace. Their beloved beachfront abode that’s been in the family since 1980 has been dotingly restored over the years, and relished as an heirloom for this and the generations to come. Ardently named after the romantic French novel, Wind, Sand and Stars – where the author cunningly illustrates all of the little things that make life worth living – this Plettenberg hideaway certainly embodies every aspect of that sentiment. Perched on the edge of a cliff, no more than 20 steps away from the waves, The Djinn Palace layers itself into tiers of terraces, courtyards, stairways, secret gardens, boudoirs adjoining luxe bathrooms, and a vast, open living space at the helm, with spectacular views of the ocean and the Tsitsikamma mountains in the distance. Much like a Mediterranean compound, the property traipses off down curving pathways of white-washed walls and creeping bougainvillea, secluded seating areas and herb gardens that lead into the private sleeping quarters. Down a flight of railway-sleeper steps, through the old Zanzibar doors, past the thriving natural coastal fynbos, and you’re on the beach.

Each room celebrates something sentimental about the history of the original 1950’s build, and its patrons. Made up like a bride’s ritual, there’s something old, something new, something recycled, something blue adorning all of the spaces. Silk saris from a honeymoon in Bali hang as curtains next to gilded ornamental chests. Beautiful old French shutters open out into a little garden with its outdoor shower. Rattan, empire beds and deep blue denim headboards. A marble bathroom with exposed rough stone. Balinese carvings, sun hats and kikois, reed carpets and Delft tiles, polished screed floors adjacent old oak. Granny’s paintings and cherished poetry. It’s a happy holiday feeling of familial love doused in fine taste, with the gorgeous light and breathtaking views making all of the statements.

When you’re not out wading about the warm ocean waters, or winding your way up a hiking trail, the Brazilian pepper tree beckons you beneath its branches, for an hour or two of tranquil research. The kids are lounging on the lawn as easy notes from the piano are played over gentle calls from the soft tropical birdlife. Cousin Susie is eagerly chopping up the fruit and mixing the right ratios of Pimms behind the mahogany bar. The long dining table and its sturdy wooden legs await the gathering of another evening’s feast. With the view opening out to the flight path of the gulls, the owner describes it as like being on a ship, in the pathway of the moon and the stars, completely enveloped by nature.

What we love!

• The large open-plan kitchen, dining, living area with its magnificent views, mahogany bar, wood-burning stove, comfy sofas and wrap-around verandah.
• For those rare indoor moments for the kids, when they need to still their active feet, there’s a quiet downstairs TV room with a very comfy built-in couch.
• Sitting outside, under the trees and the fairy lights, beside the fire at night.
• Stocking up on all of the best bakes you could muster from Le Fournil de Plett, the famous bakery 5-minutes drive away from the property.
• The charming community of laid-back residents that the property sits within.

What you need to know…

• The Lookout Deck is only a kilometre’s walk away from the property if you wish to venture somewhere vibey and fun for the evening with the kids.
• The nearest supermarket is only a 3-minute drive away, for all groceries and household supplies.
• The Deli Factory and Robberg Fisheries, situated at the Shell service station as you enter Plettenberg Bay, stocks the freshest fish and artisanal delights.

Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie