If ever you wanted to feel truly connect to nature, yet cosseted in comfort, Francois Cottage will grant your wish. In the exquisitely scenic Franschhoek Valley, the cottage is a cosy pod halfway to the clouds and completely surrounded by mountains and frilly fynbos. Here, you’re in a different world of idyllic stillness and tranquillity. Yet Franschhoek and all amenities are just 10 minutes away, tucked behind the koppies.

Named for the farm manager of 7Koppies farm who lived there in his bachelor days, Francois Cottage is a gorgeous getaway pool villa for two. Whether you wish to simply exhale, enjoy a romantic interlude or escape the world completely, here perfect privacy and seclusion are a given. You’ll only hear birdsong, and maybe baboons calling to each other. 

The bedroom is spacious and bathed in light, its golden drapes reflecting the sunsets over the Simonsberg outside. There are easy chairs to pull up to the fireside in winter, and the large deck-top pool outside is all yours for summer swims by day or night. There are intimate indoor and outdoor dining options, as well as shower options. But an evening soak in the vintage bath outside is a quirky way to close the day. In the morning you can enjoy tub time while malachite sunbirds drink nectar from aloe flowers alongside, and you may also see a dassie or two recharging in the sun. An outdoor shower with panoramic mountain views is another enticing option – and then sun dry on a lounger with different expansive views.

The Cape’s bright blue skies are evocatively reflected in the painted tongue in groove panelling in the kitchen, which is equipped to cook up a feast. Surrounding green fynbos could easily be mirrored by the bed throw. All is cocooned yet spacious, with an authentic farmhouse and contemporary feel at the same time. It’s such an easy escape from the city, with the sense of being so far yet actually so near. There’s an overriding desire to stay there forever, where life is lived to the rhythms of nature. And you’re completely at peace with the world. 

What we love:

• panoramic views from the outdoor bath
• smelling lavender from the sundeck
• built-in day beds for naps and nature gazing
• the old-worlde, wood-burning stove for heating
• old-fashioned sash windows
• being surrounded by only fynbos and mountains

Need to know:

• perimeter electric fence is just to keep baboons at bay
• pool is not covered
• there is a free-standing braai
• there is additional storage space and a fridge and freezer at the back of the cottage