Azure, for me, describes not just a colour, but that light, joyous feeling of being by a bright blue ocean topped by bright blue skies. And this bright, fresh West Coast hideaway generates that same feeling. Even on the fringes of the Cape’s long summer period, and during chilly winter spells, the warm, sunny vibes persist, the weather notwithstanding.
The little village of Dwarskersbos, an hour-and-a-half away from Cape Town, is a convenient weekend getaway. Just a touch further up the coast from nearby Paternoster, it’s a quick drive to surfing hotspot Elands Bay.
While first impressions of the local houses and a resort on the outer edges might have you wondering about its charm factor, you’ll soon see exactly why the village is becoming one of the more desirable destinations for a West Coast retreat, not least for its generously spaced cluster of clean-lined, crisp white homes that combine the best of contemporary style with a traditional fishing village vernacular. Equally appealing is its stretch of prime beach, a dream for taking long walks, picnicking and splashing about in the waves.
A chic and cosy hideaway
This spacious, well laid-out beachfront accommodation provides what feels like an endless offering of comfortable social and more private spots to take in all this magnificent scenery (watch the sea change colour throughout the day), or to sunbathe, read, take a nap and enjoy sundowners.
It’s been cleverly designed to accommodate every weather possibility, too, so even when a little inclement, there are cosy outdoor spots to gather over a roaring fire. We especially love the roof deck, situated between the two upstairs suites, with built-in seating along its length (a great spot to enjoy your morning coffee as you can leap straight out of bed and into the fresh air) as well as a sheltered fireplace for evening drinks beneath a canopy of stars.
With another two suites (interleading) downstairs, set back from the house across a gloriously sunny and sheltered pool courtyard, the house perfectly accommodates up to four couples, but would work just as well for two small families.
Thoughtfully designed modern interiors, in elegant tones of pale grey and soft pink to complement the grey floors, invite lounging about in easy, barefoot style. There’s a giant television for watching movies (choose from a small but considered DVD selection) from the comfort of a generous sofa, or hang out on the bar chairs positioned around the large kitchen island while watching the elected chefs at work. This self-catering holiday accommodation is designed with entertaining in mind, and you’ll love serving up salads and other dishes in the Wonki Ware ceramic bowls and dishes in hues that match the decor.
Reviewed by: Sylvia Stonebridge