The Anchorage on Hermanus Lagoon is a magical and metaphorical safe harbour. Here you can drop anchor, breathe deeply, rejuvenate and reconnect with the inspiring natural environment that’s all around you. And if you bring along your boat, there’s a literal private harbour too, from where you can sail sorties on the languid lagoon or to the beach just five kilometres away. 

Standing a mere 50 metres from the high-water mark, The Anchorage is one of seven houses on the estate. It faces the lagoon and is reminiscent of a gracious Nantucket-style home that’s filled with light and lightness of being. The ground level is a boathouse, and the deck and upper levels are for easy living. Inside subtly reflects outside, with soothing colours of washed blues and greys showcased by white wooden floors and ceilings. It’s idyllic waterfront living that’s fresh and airy, with green plants and happy colour accents in the botanical-print cushions and upholstery. 

Imagine waking up gently, stepping out onto the deck to stretch and embrace the day, while watching the water lap the lagoon shore and birdsong wafts on the breeze. Enjoy a light breakfast al fresco, then head onto the water to canoe while the day is young and still. Dip in the plunge pool, walk, hike or mountain bike in clean country air. After lunch, claim a daybed and bird watch between naps on the deck, or curl up with a book in one of the inside lounges, or sheltered north-facing outside deck. Whatever the season the house is cool or as cosy as can be; in winter both lounges are warmed by roaring wood fires to keep them toasty. 

With two levels for living, The Anchorage has a private en-suite bedroom and lounge on the top floor, looking out over the lagoon from the treetops. On the deck level is a revamped kitchen, another lounge and dining space, and three more bedrooms along with bathrooms. All are sunny and light-filled, and dusted in watercolours. In winter, beds are snug as all are fitted with electric blankets and bed warmers. 

With the lofty Overberg mountains and Maanskykop as the backdrop, rustling gum trees all around and the lapping lagoon in front, wherever you are inside there are magical picture-book views of outside – even while cooking up a storm on the beautiful SMEG stove in the kitchen. Dining is just as scenic, with options inside or outside under cover with lagoon views – or at the back of the house with moody mountains as your company. Whatever your choice, beauty surrounds you and the house rests easily between trees, water and rockfaces. 

Such a special place this is, of soft sunrises and intensely beautiful sunsets that paint the lagoon in fire colours. Then the water changes to liquid silver as darkness falls, and a canopy of stars shines down on you. It’s so captivatingly beautiful, you can easily finish a bottle of wine without even realising it. Because nature has mesmerised you and your soul is smiling, just as it should. 

Posted by Keri Harvey 

What we love:

• The serene and panoramic views from inside the house of water, mountains and trees
• Lounging on the front verandah and watching the world go by
• Cosying up to a wood fire in winter, to the sound of rustling gum trees
• Going out to a restaurant for lunch, by boat (by law, no boating after dark)
• The artistic sunsets over the lagoon
• Having three dining options, with different views of nature
• Exploring the nearby Maanskynkop slopes and waterfalls
• That there’s so much to do in the area – from visiting local markets, wineries and craft breweries to all the watersports you can think of, as well as mountain biking
• Being midway between Hermanus and Stanford with their different offerings 

Need to know:

• The plunge pool is not covered
• Canoes are included for guest use, but not boats. You are welcome to bring your own boat to use.
• Hermanus is 10 km away and so is Stanford – for groceries, restaurants and