From the outside, standing upon the narrow Mediterranean-esque lemon, palm and frangipani tree-lined lanes of Fresnaye, The Townhouse appears to be rather quaint. And dare we say it, cute. Three levels of an old Victorian dame, all done up in her fine contemporary attire. Elegantly settled beneath Lion’s Head, overlooking the shoreline of the Atlantic Seaboard.

From the inside, though, an entirely new narrative ensues with this Cape Town hideaway. Two expansive ensuite bedrooms occupy the top floor. Enough space to allow for a spacious study, too. All looking out across the ocean and up to the tip of Lion’s Head. A generous living, dining, cooking and entertaining space seamlessly merges with one another, rests on the first floor. A dreamy courtyard trapping all of the warm African sunshine. Large stackable doors folding back to bring in the light, the ocean and mountain air, and that lovely urban outdoor essence. A courtyard with a braai area, a little fountain, and enough seating to sit back and spot the stars at night brings all of the romance to this beautiful city abode. Yes, it’s riveting, surprising and curiously layered at every turn, around every corner, and down every stairway.

The home has been beautifully renovated over the years, but ardently retained its historical Victorian charm. Like its neighbouring counterparts that make up a quad of pied-à-terre-like properties. The perfect city stop over, weekend escape or group getaway for the four of you. Ample space to live as one should when holidaying with your favourite travelling clan. Reading nooks and languid TV reclining spots. For those that need to open up the laptop and tend to some of the essentials, there’s the study and plenty of little quiet corners to settle and focus. All the while, taking in the views, the tranquil ambience of the suburbs, and of course the stories that are being told by the owner’s curious collectables. Sculptural pieces, ancient maps, classical literature, and fascinating ornamentals. Nature’s treasures from the Namibian desert, the Atlantic’s ocean floor, and the Kruger’s wild plains. It’s like a vintage souvenir shop that implores you to add to its collection. Your memories of an urban-seaside escapade, etched into the layering of this luxury accommodation.

Refined living at every turn

When you and the clan decide to venture out, the cosmopolis of Sea Point, Green Point, the V&A Waterfront, and Camps Bay are either a steady walk (do bear in mind the lovely hills to climb) (points earned for all of the holiday sipping and snacking), or a swift drive away. Exploring the mountain trails from your doorstep, down to Saunders beach for an early morning or evening dip. Meandering the nearby streets, popping into the odd café, delicious eateries, convenience stores and quirky boutiques. Day trips along the coast, visiting the seaside hamlets or perhaps an afternoon in the Constantia winelands. Local farmer’s markets and picnics in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens – recently voted one of the top ten gardens to visit in the world! You’ll be pivoting from The Townhouse in accordance with your own clocks, always returning this lovely sanctuary with overflowing cups. To the security of your own nest. Secluded from the crowds, but equally in perfect proximity to all that the Mother City has to offer in abundance.