A gentle stirring of nature’s conversation, waking you up from your slumber. Time to head down the winding staircase, escorted by the ocean as you tip toe every step. Out onto the front deck and into the water. It’s just you and the whales, the dolphins, the sun’s rays and the scent of summer. Bobbing about in the swimming pool that merges with the horizon of blue.
One more lap before coffee. Before the days begin at Heaven on Earth. Before your Hermanus holiday clan wake up and turn the placid, warm waters into rapids. Where the shrills and shrieks of a seaside escape ensue. There’s quite simply nothing like that ocean sound, the scent that accompanies it and those never-ending views.
Settled upon the meandering cliffs of the old fishing village of Hermanus, this magnificent hideaway is the ideal spot for multigenerational family beach getaways. With its endless views of the ocean, the mountains in the distance and the Fernkloof Nature Reserve behind, the landscape will be the most treasured companion of the trip.
Three voluminous levels of living, dining, entertaining, gaming, reclining, cooking, cocktailing and whale watching areas have been beautifully stitched together by the esteemed interior architect, Clinton Savage. With the owner’s stamp emblazoned across every layer of luxury that endorse the property’s name. As a large clan, you’ll spend most of your time on the deck, in and out of the pool and the jacuzzi. Gathered around the braai area or the 12-seater kitchen table. Always snacking and playing games.
When the weather changes, the beautiful fireplace will be lit, flickering in sync with the rain dripping down the double window panes. Plenty of blankets to go around as the family banter warms the cockles of your hearts. For those that might like a bit of solitude, the quiet nook at the top of the staircase is the perfect spot to dive into a holiday novel, occasionally glancing up to witness the ocean wildlife drift by.
Then off onto the Eastcliff paths for some secret cove hunting and tidal pool dipping. A trip to the farmer’s market for some sourcing and feasting. Some might like an afternoon adventure in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. Golf, mountain biking and hiking, boat trips, wine tasting and of course plenty of beach action. The Overberg has it all.
Babylonian beach days
Of all the things that this sublime seaside village has to offer, it’s the family-bonding experiences that rest at the helm of every moment. As it has been for the owners of Heaven on Earth who have ardently furnished this beach home with their memories for many a generation.
Recently renovated entirely – to ensure their lavish needs are tended to, the air and light of the landscape is as much a part of each space as the family heirlooms and artwork – this contemporary villa earnestly shares its old soul with you. Around every table, from every sofa and sun lounger, bathtub and cavernous bed. With every sunrise and moon dance across the water.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie