Set on the ridges of an 80-hectare farm, overlooking a dam and a magnificent, ever-changing landscape speckled with livestock and blanketed with burgeoning fynbos vegetation, Thuúla Haven is a place where we can go to immerse ourselves in the quiet stillness of nature and tap into the bliss of remote country living.
Only a 90-minute drive from Cape Town, Thuúla Haven is a country hideaway that arises from the earth with its graceful, structural elements, as a eulogy to its environment.
Three apex barns sit adjacent one another, exposing its construct and minimal yet warm interiors through tall glass doors and windows. Allowing the landscape to find its way onto the screed and timber floors, the natural light to dance across the walls and settle in the open-plan living spaces.
The main barn holds itself as the helm of the home, where everyone gathers around the tables, on the comfy sofas, beside the fireplaces and beneath the tall ceilings that lift you out over the valley. Like a portal into the heavens.
Each space, though minimalistic in its form, has been stylishly appointed with the owner’s signature stamp on interior finesse. A seamless reflection of the property’s surroundings yet simultaneously cocooning you in its calming embrace.
Live life at a gentle pace
The wonderful thing about spending time in the valley is relinquishing all routines succumb to the rhythms of nature. You’ll start your day with the morning’s sun, blessing you with a dip in the dam. Coffee on the veranda followed by a hike into the mountains, exploring the natural pools and waterfalls. Hours of reading or painting or stretching in the studio. Then a visit to one of the neighbouring wine farms for a tasting sensation of some of the country’s finest wines and lunch servings.
Some might like to take a gallop around the nearby equestrian farms. With the town of Hermanus being a short, scenic drive away, you’re likely to head towards the coast for a swim in the ocean, or visit the amazing farmer’s markets and stylish boutiques, stocking up on supplies before heading home to the valley.
You might also prefer to simply sit still for days at this unique holiday accommodation. Cooking, creating, feasting and foraging for nature’s treasures.
Thuúla, meaning silence in Xhosa, is the perfect depiction of what prevails at this hideaway, as you immerse yourself entirely into a place that’s known as heaven on earth.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie
Edited by Dawn Kennedy