There is something undeniably alluring about Kommetjie as a seaside destination. Its community of barefoot beachgoers, clusters of bungalows, long stretches of sand where the surf curls and retreats its relentless flow of blue. The laidback influence of the village incites an adjustment to our clocks where time extends itself voluntarily. Urgency from all activities is removed and replaced with a ‘go-slow’ attitude. Walks are enjoyed as a leisurely amble on the shoreline, swims are savoured as an invigorating health kick, meals are spread out over hours, catching the rays and basking in the ocean air. There’s a connection to nature in Kommetjie, that satiates our longing for stillness and nurtures a quiet sense of belonging.
Cushioned into the thick fynbos shrub of the Klein Slangkop dunes, with little pathways meandering their ways down to the beach, Sunset Cove opens its shutters and its glass sliding doors to the elements and lets Kommetjie’s karma flow throughout. Set on levels of tiered spaces around spacious decks with sun loungers, comfy sofas and seating areas, a plunge pool, a hammock, a fire-pit and endless views of the ocean, the mountains and Hout Bay’s Sentinel, this hideaway seamlessly settles into its surroundings. And implores you to do exactly the same. Its open-plan living, dining and entertaining spaces lead out onto the wrap-around deck and terraced areas, where the colour of the fynbos is reflected in its gentle hues of green and grey, with soft shades of cream and stone. Gregory Mellor’s finesse can be seen and felt in the interiors with textures of reed, timber, glass and quartz marrying the linens, the whicker and the shaggy rugs. Its three ensuite bedrooms – one of which being a large bunk room for the kids – all optimise on the ever-constant sea air and natural light. The downstairs tv room allows for a little lazy respite from the sun. Whatever the weather, the beach will always beckon those walks, the fireplaces will always entice a game or two around them, and the views – with their ever-changing colours – will always pacify.
That is, after all, the reason why we all flock to be beside the sea. Season upon season, the waves warrant a bit of a surf, a paddle and a dip. The community cafés and eateries serve hot bakes and treats to accompany a hot brew on the dunes. The nearby mountain trails await those vigorous early morning hikes with the birds. The Peninsula roads map unique spots to explore, where the wilderness meets more, curious hamlets. And when it’s time to simply settle around the long table, with your clan, feasting from the seafood spread and savouring every sip, the sun will be transforming the colours of the sea as it begins to set. The mountains will be reshaping their silhouettes and the air will be toasted by the flames from the fireplace. As time holds you captive to the very moment that Kommetjie so cunningly disguises as forever.
What we love!
- Sunset Cove is immediately beside the sea, within the lovely laidback, authentic village of Kommetjie, yet only a 40-minute drive to the centre of Cape Town. You don’t need to travel for days to get to the perfect beach location.
- Enjoying early morning coffees or late afternoon sundowners on the deck, on the barstools, overlooking the sea.
- Spending evenings around the fire pit, with the fairy lights sparkling from the tree that’s all lit up and flickering in sync with the stars.
What you need to know…
- The little village centre of Kommetjie is only a 5-minute drive away where loads of lovely cafés, convenience stores, bakeries and delicatessens are for all of your supplies.
- Get involved in all of the water sports with your clan – from SUP-boarding to kitesurfing. Or simply exploring the rock pools and estuaries.
- For a pint or two of a delicious craft beer, Lakeside Brewery is no more than a 5-minute drive away, at Imhoff Farm. A lovely spot for the whole family to venture to.
- All major supermarkets and large convenience stores are located at the Long Beach Shopping Malla 15-minute drive from the property.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie
