We often ask ourselves what it is about the beautiful old fishing village of Churchhaven that manages to capture our hearts with an earnest rapture. Of course, considering its scenes of the lagoon’s tepid, turquoise waters with its slow tide, embellished by a bevy of pink flamingos and little sailing boats drifting along depicts an answer. Its vast, wild landscape rising and falling like the waves of the West Coast on the other side of the dunes, and its clear coastal air also stirs up the requisites for some heart stealing.
There’s the wildlife, the magnificent birdlife, the slow living, the long walks, the water sports and lazy swims. It all explains the grabbing of one’s heart without ever letting it go. But what’s not easy to describe and what’s near impossible to visualise, is the kind of person Churchhaven implores you to become from the moment you arrive. Its attributes mirror yours, in all their glory. And the wonderful thing is that we get to share that person with all of our favourite people who’ve also suddenly tapped into their finest, footloose and fancy-free living selves.
With a lovely cocooning courtyard cantered around an open-plan living, dining and cooking space and the four bedrooms, three bathrooms – that include a cool loft room with a TV for the kids – this hideaway is an idyllic beach escape for two families to come together for a weekend getaway – or longer if you’re lucky – and be their best beach selves.
Inspired by Moroccan souks with a colour palette of rich greens and stone, gold, grey and soft blues with lovely candlelit alcoves and languid reclining spots, casual contemporary furnishings and intimate lighting, there’s nothing fettered about each space. It’s as footloose and refined as we allow ourselves to be.
Barefoot, off the grid bliss
As the hours of the day unravel at Slipway – and you gradually become acquainted with your new slow living self, in a timeless, joyful existence – you’ll start to recognise those subtle traits of nature that mirror yours too. You’ll rise with the birds, just as you like to, being greeted by the morning sun on the stoep, witnessing the ripples on the water transform with the day’s light. A little meander down to the lagoon for a dip, paddle or whatever water sport you fancy.
Back for a hearty brunch around the long table, followed by a snooze on the daybeds or in the courtyard, receiving some respite from the sun. An afternoon bike ride or long walk along the fynbos pathways spotting the resident ostriches, tortoises and mongooses.
Then it’s back to the cottage for some nibbles and tipples before a pizza feasting around the fire-pit. The kids will opt for the outdoor showers because they’re just more fun. The shade of the lagoon is transforming once again, as nature evokes an evening frock in pink with silver embroidery. Barefoot of course. As is everyone else, simply being, in tune with the surroundings and the reassuring stillness that captures all of your hearts.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie
Edited by Dawn Kennedy