Settled on the tranquil grounds of the Simola Golf Estate in Knysna, Watch House is a breathtakingly beautiful family home along the Garden Route, for the whole clan to have their holiday wish lists catered to.

Perhaps the name of this idyllic Knysna home was inspired by an activity one’s likely to partake in throughout the hours of the day. Watching the light travel across the Outeniqua mountains in the distance. The birds skimming the tips of the swimming pool then landing in the long grasses that scatter themselves around the garden.

Watching the golfers tee-off between the 2nd and 7th holes of the Simola Golf Course that rests right in front. The kids riding their bikes down the long winding driveway, and the family cooks creating yet another delicious dish in the magnificent kitchen. Watching the vastness of the cerulean skies transform in tones, and the romance of the raspberry sunsets.

Yes, Watch House is a beautifully layered home, that will implore many hours of being a blissful spectator to the majestic landscape. Settled on the private Simola Golf Estate, it’s completely removed from the crowds and the clatter that comes with it. Quiet and secluded, this four bedroom hideaway is ideal for a family getaway along the Garden Route.

Set into the hillside, the property reveals itself through a remarkable terraced amphitheatre garden, that was crafted with brick pathways and flanked by long grasses. Adventure and discovery is woven into the narrative of the home, with climbing ropes, complex play areas and winding garden trails. Wherever you plant yourself, the amphitheatre forms a captivating backdrop. A living landscape that evolves with the seasons, adding depth and character to the home.

Watching the world go by

Arranged across two storeys, the house is designed for a multigenerational escape. An inviting entrance hall leads to a guest cloakroom and study, before opening into a series of elegant living spaces. The lounge, centred around a fireplace, unfolds in two distinct seating areas, each drawing the eye westward towards the most sensational views of the Outeniqua Mountains, the golf course, the river below and the pastoral landscape of Charlesford Dairy Farm.

The dining room, kitchen, media room and intimate wine cellar flow seamlessly together, with expansive sliding doors disappearing into the walls to connect the interiors with a generous verandah. An outdoor fireplace and long dining table provide the perfect spot for the whole clan to gather, feast, and unpack the fun.

Three spacious ensuite bedrooms and another library or study rest upstairs. A fourth bedroom has its own degree of independence, accessed via a staircase from the mud room, with its own separate parking space, a kitchenette and dining area. It doesn’t matter who draws the straw for the fourth room, it’s lovely to have that additional space away from the action.

Speaking of action, there will be plenty of that on this holiday. In the kitchen, around the swimming pool, the many dining tables and all of the comfy seating spaces. Out in the garden on the adventure routes, or settled on the patio beneath the vines, playing cards or hours of reading.

Morning and evening walks around the golf course – whether you’re hitting with a 9-iron or simply strolling the fairway, it’s delightfully tranquil. Some might like to visit the clubhouse and spend some time in the spa. A sauna or a gym session, or a game of Padel down the road. There’s also the river that you can kayak down, and then braai along the banks afterwards.

Watch House is a place that offers so many worlds in one. For you to retreat to the wondrous grounds of the tranquil estate, explore the surrounding nature, and brave the odd beach mission. You’ll rest and reconnect with whoever you get to share this magical home with.

Written by Colleen Ogilvie