Fleeing to a far away place that’s ensconced in nature, hidden from the noise and bright lights, busy chatter and arduous matter is a vital calling for all of us, now more than ever. Where tranquility engulfs and time gently glides us through the changing hours of the day. As we surround ourselves with the people and things that enable us to be at our best.

Only a two-hour drive from Cape Town, resting on 376 hectares within a secluded and serene setting, overlooking the lulling lagoon waters and majestic Kleinrivier mountains, Mosaic Lagoon Lodge sits amongst an ancient milkwood forest and its bounteous birdlife. Set upon the water’s edge, this five-star hideaway invites you in to its luxury thatched quarters, with a sincere and humble declaration of gratitude for the magnificent wilderness it inhabits. Wooden walkways adjoin the five dreamy suites with the main dining and entertaining areas, a rejuvenating spa, a swimming pool and glorious lookout deck. All beneath the tranquility of the trees that branch between the thatch.

Days will begin and end on your watch, at your leisure, as you so choose for them to unfold. Following a hearty, sumptuous breakfast in the ‘lappa’, you’ll be whisked off on an adventure. Some might venture into the fynbos dunes on quad bikes, whilst others might opt for an easy, educational and inspiring walk through the nature. There’s also the option of investing hours of self-care in the spa or quite simply beside the swimming pool – that’s heated for those starry, starry nights. Lunch will be served – as with all of the other meals – upon your appetite’s calling, and then it’s back out into the beautiful landscape for a river cruise, or a paddle across the lagoon in a kayak. All of the activities are available to you and your team, to pick and choose when you’d like to participate. For those that are in extra need of respite from the City’s hustling, each safari-style suite has its own private deck with comfy recliners to sink into and tune into nature’s pacifying sounds that will revive every ounce of joie de vivre lacking. By the time evening falls, and the sundowners are being poured, you’ll be gliding with the pace of life on the lagoon, as the amazing staff remind you once again that you are on holiday, and it’s only the very beginning of your great escape. Dinner will be served under the stars, beside the boma’s blazing fire. Stories of the day’s adventures will be passed around the table, amidst intermittent calls of the resident nightjars as they perch amongst the branches. All that’s left of the day is to sink into those heavenly beds and drift off with the stillness.

It can be difficult to summon-up what each day will entail in this unique pocket of paradise, but you can be certain, that every morning will present something special. In the words of the owner of Mosaic Lagoon Lodge, “As I enter the Milkwood forest each day, a sense of serenity surrounds me. It’s my peace and quiet from the rest of the world. All I can hear are the birds chirping away and it’s almost like nature is giving me a hug.”

What we love!

• The staff of Mosaic Lagoon Lodge are the extra special ingredient that maintain the levels of luxury at this otherwise laidback, unpretentious place that entices you to feel completely at home.
• Breathtaking views of the mountain ranges, the lagoon, the forest and the vastness of the landscape envelope all of the living and sleeping spaces of the lodge.
• The birdlife is extraordinary and home to hundreds of different species of indigenous birds. The lodge is part of the Walker Bay Fynbos conservancy, where a track record of the resident wildlife that occupy the area is maintained.

What you need to know…

• All of the five suites – that includes one family suite to accommodate a total of 10 adults and two children at full capacity – can be rented out exclusively, or individually.
• Mosaic Lagoon Lodge has its very own chapel for those who dream about a wedding in nature beneath the milkwood – or perhaps vow renewals.
• It’s great for all of the seasons. With its fireplaces aplenty, heated swimming pool, inviting ‘lappa’ and cosy entertaining spaces, incredible spa treatments, and deluge of activities to dive into, whatever the weather – there is more than enough to make the most of your days.
• If you feel you must leave the property, the lovely quaint village of Stanford is a short drive away. Ice-creams shops, Saturday markets, antique stores, butchers, bakers and craft makers. It is centrally located to all of the other activities within the Overberg region including wale watching, marine tours, wine and cheese tasting.

Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie