Where the poet composes
The Keep cushions itself amongst the fynbos, resting along the rugged coastal cliffs of Hermanus, where a cosy beach hideaway beholds the magic of the Overberg.
You don’t have to travel far from Cape Town, to feel like you’ve stepped into the pages of a Hemingway novel. Deeply evocative and inspiring at every turn. Old or young, man or woman, you are blissfully at sea. Gliding with the warm tides, surrounded by the mountains of the Overberg. The Keep earnestly harbours a space of intimate inspiration. A gull’s call away from the village of Hermanus, enraptured by the nature that abounds. What was once an old stone ruin of a lighthouse, stoically standing like a sentinel of the bay, is now a one-bedroomed seaside hideaway, that rests as an integral part of the ocean it faces.
As a private appendage to the main house of Heeren Huijs, this romantic self-catering retreat dutifully honours the history of its build, and embraces the contemporary comforts we desire. Reflecting the tones and textures of the landscape, The Keep was designed and built by Karen Newman, of Newman Architecture and Design. The historical charm and character of the cottage has been lovingly nurtured and polished. Retaining the essence of this coastal hideaway, for slow, soulful stays in your own little seaside sanctuary. Lime-washed timber ceilings, oak floors, large glass windows and sliding doors that open out into the fynbos. It’s delightfully rustic with all of the right finishes. Beautiful linens and simple furnishings that assist with the cocooning.
The Keep is a place for creative travellers seeking some divine inspiration. Your own wellness spot where whale watching will be the holistic remedy. From the window seats, the warmth of the KolKol, and the invigorating chill of the tidal pool just below. Darting between both bodies of water like birds. It’s also a place for couples that love a bit of ocean therapy.
Engaging in deep conversations with the waves, the landscape, and one another. Those that are curious about the intricacies of the fynbos species, and all that thrives amongst it. Or, maybe you’re a solo traveller, simply wanting to shut off. The hideaway is serenely secluded and perfectly private, so it can be just you, the mountains, the water and its oceanic wildlife.
Splendid isolation by the sea
It’s entirely up to you and your travelling companion as to how you wish for your days, or weeks, to unfold at The Keep. Each day presenting something new and naturally grounding. Long morning and evening walks along the cliff paths. Birdwatching and whale spotting. Dipping into the tidal pools, then back to your stone cabin for a warmer plunge. Even though the property is tucked behind the rocks and shrub, shielded by timber screens, (as if you’re somewhere completely remote) the town is just a brief stroll away.
You can top up on all of the essentials, head to the farmer’s market on Saturdays, or into the Fernkloof Nature Reserve for some longer nature hikes. And return to the quiet solitude of your own sanctuary. Resuming the position beside the window to witness the late afternoon antics of the ocean. Penning the next verses of a poem that may or may not be published. The words and their rhythm will arrive at a pace as melodic as the waves. The ever-changing light, the fragrance of the fynbos, the comfort of the space, and the company that you choose will bring all of the colour to the pages of your Western Cape escape.
What we love!
- The property is located immediately on the cliff paths – as close to the ocean as they come – yet delightfully secluded and private. You really do feel like you are immersed in nature, surrounded by the ocean, with magnificent mountain views.
- The interiors are beautifully stitched together, and provide enough comfort and inspiration to enhance the tranquillity of your holiday. Without distracting you from the beauty that’s going on outside.
- For those that love to surf, the mavericks waves of bayview are immediately in front.
- With its own private access to the cliff paths, it’ll be a wonderful daily ritual to just head out onto the walkways and meander your ways around the coves, reconnecting with nature and one another!
- The views are simply spectacular.
What you need to know…
- The Keep is best suited to a couple or a solo traveller, seeking peace and tranquillity, and nature’s inspirational companionship.
- Cape Town International Airport is only a 90-minute drive to and from the property.
- Fernkloof Nature Reserve is an absolute must for all hiking enthusiasts wanting to explore the lesser beaten tracks in nature. Especially for winter walks.
- The Stanford Valley is a twenty-minute drive away for a full day out. Activities include picnics under the Stanford Manor trees, beside the dam. Sunset cruises on the River Klein. Cheese, beer and wine tasting.
- Visit Hermanus Farmer’s Market every Saturday for all things art, craft, food, music, fun and frolics.
- If The Keep is not available on your dates, browse our full collection of exclusive-use holiday houses in Hermanus.
Written by Colleen Ogilvie