Its proximity to Cape Town – no more than an hour and half’s drive along one of the most scenic routes in the Western Cape, marking the start of the famous Whale Route. Its charming community of residents and its wonderfully laidback approach to beach living, on the eastern shores of False Bay.
Cushioned into the dunes overlooking the thick fynbos shrub, sitting front row to the long stretch of shoreline beyond its footpaths, House on the Dune couldn’t be more aptly named as it occupies a lovely little pocket of rugged coastal paradise.
Set on three levels of consciously considered spaces with the helm of the home – the entertaining, living, dining and cooking space resting on the top floor – this hideaway fully encapsulates the spectacular views of the ocean and mountain ranges that surround it.
The formal lounge leads out onto an L-shaped deck with lovely reclining spaces, a built-in braai and portable pizza oven. Mornings spent here, with a hot brew and a pacifying playlist on in the background as the birdlife dance about in the shrub below, will be those blissful moments for the books.
Off down the beach pathways to collect the tide’s treasures, as you slowly greet the day with your stride. Perhaps a more energetic jog to work up an appetite for brunch, or a dip into the shallow, warmer waters of the Buffels estuary that trickles out into the ocean. The kids will be paddling about on kayaks or rock fishing for crabs. When the wind picks up – which it can from time to time – you and your clan can retreat to the courtyard beside the plunge pool.
Grab a book and a beverage and hang out in the hammock outside the main ensuite, or secure some quiet time in the cosy office with a fireplace and comfy seating. The rest of the time you’ll all be gathered in the living spaces, preparing the next meal around that lovely long dining table. The home’s inimitable style and soothing colour palette nurtures from the inside, out. Out into the greenery of the landscape and revitalising sea air.
Before the night sets in and the late afternoon sun is drifting west with the horizon, you’ll gather some blankets and a tipple of choice, settle on the sand and mark the end of another glorious day. The roaring fireplace awaits, as you take yourselves home, rinsing the salt from your feet under the outdoor showers, and let the games begin. Who doesn’t love a round of cards beside the fire, whilst the doors are open wide, allowing the ocean air to fuse with the scent of moules marinière steaming in the kitchen? Just another evening in this lovely little pocket of rugged coastal paradise.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie