A sea and safari experience awaits
Perched on the rugged cliffs of the George Private Nature Reserve, on the Garden Route, is a special place for deep relaxation. Oblivion emerges from the soil with reverence, cosseted by frilly fynbos and milkwood forest. The magnificent property appears to hover above the long stretch of shoreline between Ballots and Victoria Bay, offering both panoramic bush and ocean views. With one foot in each realm, Oblivion is safari accommodation and then some, with game viewing on land and sea. Actually, it’s the perfect safari.
In keeping with nature’s narrative, this serene hideaway seems to rise from the earth and spread its bones of raw poplar, solid oak, granite and glass. Oblivion embodies the soul of the ocean, the majestic mountains and its enchanting natural surroundings. It is a secluded romantic getaway and a safari hideaway rolled into one.
Stylish simplicity that is world class
Deeply calm and beautiful, Oblivion is also off the grid, yet you’d never guess so. Everything here is seamlessly created to honour nature and conserve it. It is also in a malaria free game reserve, which further encourages enjoyment while game watching or hiking.
Mornings begin slowly with a coffee in bed, connecting with the sound of the waves, the song of the Knysna loeries and the crisp mountain air. Through the meadows, you may spot the occasional zebra and black wildebeest, as if on a private safari. The magical forest also awaits and there are flowing rivers and an inviting tidal pool for a refreshing dip. Plus, there’s a heated swimming pool too. It’s a great vantage point from which to spot whales and dolphins in the waves below. Then, dry off in the sun, relaxing on bean bags for an hour or two. If you must work, there’s a small desk with an ocean view.
Watch the kids gather around the fire playing boardgames, while planting yourself close by with your favourite tipple in hand. Later on, soak in the bath under the night sky above the twirling tide. You’ll be grateful for the stillness of surrounding nature, that encourages a great night’s sleep. Tomorrow has as much of what today brought to you, and even more should you wish. Bush and beach meet here in harmony to create a beautiful getaway from it all for the whole family.
What we love!
- Spending time on the pool deck, enjoying long meals and watching the oceanic wildlife, the birds and the light travel through the day is restorative. It’s precious time to connect with your surroundings, while enjoying sea and safari self catering accommodation.
- Oblivion is off-the-grid with its solar panel system and unique wood-burning stove that heats the water and circulates it to heat two radiators in the home. Rather than using electric or gas heaters it perfectly tempers the entire house.
- The bespoke furnishings and design layout of the home – in keeping with the stringent building requirements and honouring the footprint – makes the home an integral part of the landscape.
- This is a magnificent weekend getaway spot, but even better is to stay for a week. It’s part game farm accommodation and part luxury beach house. The best of both worlds.
What you need to know…
- The property is just outside of George, off the Victoria Bay road. Access to the nature reserve is a mini adventure along a jeep track – that can be navigated by small vehicles – but you are required to drive a winding dirt road.
- The house manager is always on hand and ready to assist with your daily needs. He knows the area and the property incredibly well, so can advise on all of your activities as well as arrange massages and private hiking trips upon request.
- Ballots Bay is lovely for swimming and is immediately next to Victoria Bay. Walk down from the property and you can watch the surfers or the kayakers on the Kaaiman’s River. The Outeniqua Mountains are also nearby.
- Cleopatra’s tidal pool is located just below the property – about a 15-minute walk down and a 20-minute walk up – depending on your stamina.
- The property is protected by Cape Nature. There are no game drives offered.
- Oblivion is roughly halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. It’s an ideal weekend breakaway in South Africa, especially if travelling the Garden Route.
Edited by Keri Harvey