Found in Vermaaklikheid, the small, idyllic town far removed from the hubbub of city life, House of Eels offers its guests a dreamy respite in one of South Africa’s most beautiful, remote locations. Originally built and occupied by local draughtsman Jackson Andrew, this home shares a unique relationship with its sumptuous natural environment. Andrew was largely inspired by the organic matter of the local terrain, making extensive and imaginative use of reeds, blue gum wooden detailing, river mud, local stone and discarded ironwork found on the surrounding land.
The home’s name pays homage to a long told tale about Mozambican eels making their migratory descent from their own North Eastern shores to the very tip of Africa. Myth has it that these eels found a cozy pit stop in the home’s three ponds, basking in the shade of the reeds. The interior décor is simple, crisp and sophisticated with just a hint of South African-inspired luxury. The indoor roofing is made from bundled local reeds with a porcupine quill accidently thrown in here and there. The thick walls and stone flooring keep the house cool on balmy Summer afternoons whilst the indoor fireplace will ensure our guests are snug if ever a chilly evening arises. The outdoor fire-pit is the perfect spot for al fresco family meals, appreciated with a glass of wine to the twilight melodies of local birdsong.
A five-minute stroll toward your own private jetty will take you down to the banks of the expansive Duiwenhoks River. Push one of the canoes out into the blue and venture along the banks to find a secluded little cove of beach, a private swimming oasis for you and your loved ones. While away the hours beneath the dappled light of the pergola with a plump book or a board game, take a meander down one of the neighbouring biking routes, test your bird knowledge from the riverbanks or simply recline beneath the shade of the trees with a snack and a friend. The African days stretch out into sun-soaked evenings in this heavenly home, inviting you to disconnect and revitalize in the most picturesque of settings.
