Of all the stunningly scenic spots that occupy our Atlantic Seaboard, the quaint little pocket of Llandudno perfectly harnesses the quintessence of seaside living. With its burgeoning community and eclectic batch of bungalows, cascading down onto the beach, it’s a place that answers to the call of Cape Town’s calm, amongst its courtliness. Where the surfers brave the icy waves with the seals, and the beach-goers lay beneath their brollies with their sticky ice-lollies. It’s a secluded haven where the familial ambience beckons you in to its kindred commune.
Cushioned into the ridges of the hill of little lion’s head, with sweeping views of the ocean, Skyfall glides above the beach below, and firmly anchors itself into the mountain. Set on three levels of sturdy concrete, engineered oak, natural granite, glass and marble, this contemporary, linear hideaway is a villa of distinction. Nature seeps into every open space with the exposed granite boulders of the mountain carving the edges of the retractable glass doors and windows, as light gently floods the living areas, the kitchen, the corridors, the reading corners and the six capacious ensuite bedrooms. One of which having its very own dainty kitchenette for private feasting. Designed by renowned Cape Town architect, David Peerutin, the property’s north-facing position is optimised by the eternal open flow of the entertainment areas, that divide into cosy lounging and vast dining spaces, with an elegantly refined kitchen and enclosed barbecue area, a tranquil study and library, that all adjoin the nucleus of the home – the long, inviting deck and its 20-metre swimming pool. Endless hours of the day, and evening, will be spent gathered around the pool, on comfy sun-loungers, mimicking the ocean’s wildlife as you duck and dive into the warmer waters of above. Or head to the upstairs terrace for a bit of solitary sunbathing, looking out to sea as the whales, the dolphin and the fishing boats go by. Perhaps you’d like a quick detox session in the white-marbled steam room that’s carved into a cavity of one of the boulders. Whatever the weather, this hideaway cocoons you from the wind that occasionally blasts the beach sands, and offers respite from the fierce summer sun, with its perfectly positioned reclining areas.
When it’s time to take a wander all the way down to the shoreline, you’ll be greeted by those familiar smiles once again, making you feel right at home, like you’ve always belonged in this happy little hamlet. And as you return with the evening light, just before the sun begins to set, it’s time to crank up the classical tunes, light the fires for added ambience, pour the wine and begin the preparations in the kitchen for the evening’s feasting at one of the long, long dining tables. And why not have one last dip in that delicious pool before the day ends, and the night begins?
What we love!
- It goes without saying, these views are truly spectacular. From the ocean to the mountain, through each room of the house and back out to sea again.
- Nothing about this hideaway is ostentatious or overtly lavish. Though it’s been furnished with some of the finest pieces, including an Eames recliner in the study and Barcelona chairs in the living space; it’s understated luxury.
- This applies to the art too. Local artists that include contemporary South African artist Vanessa Berlein, the late Frans Claerhout and Elize Vossgätter hang from the walls.
- The bathtub in the main en suite that is set up against an expansive window looking out to the exposed granite of little lion’s head. As if the bathroom was chiselled out of the boulders, completely immersed in the wilderness.
What you need to know…
- There is a lovely little guest cottage that has its own kitchenette for those multi-generational family holidays or that guest who would prefer a little extra privacy.
- Llandudno is no more than a 20-minute drive from Cape Town, and only 10 minutes to Hout Bay that’s home to every kind convenience store you’ll need.
- For some fun and frolics visit the Hout Bay Market every Friday, Saturday and Sunday where live music, art, craft, food and fashion is aplenty.
- The Constantia Wine region is a 25-minute drive away, towards the Nek of Constantia and through the forest to some of the best grapes in the Cape.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie