A storybook waterside hideaway.
On a bend in the Breede River, near Malgas, against a backdrop of remote southern Cape fynbos-covered hills, lies a magical villa in a secret playground. For any crew that enjoys mucking about on rivers – be it a big family or group of friends – this will be utter paradise. Carefree days spent hopping in and out of the glistening water, and exploring the landscaped garden and wilder surroundings, punctuated by relaxed meals and peaceful nights around a fire.
Space to dream
The old slate-stone house has been lovingly restored, filled with original features and timber trims, offset by gorgeous contemporary decor. Sleeping quarters are divided between the house and an adjacent cottage. The main living area, with a generously kitted-out open-plan kitchen, opens onto an expansive deck offering myriad spots for resting and reclining, drinking and feasting. The original Eel Bar, which has a few stories of its own to tell, is now fitted out with a built-in braai, pizza oven, dart board and a speaker or two!
Nature nurture
There’s plenty of garden space to play in, with terraced lawns, a trampoline and walkways to follow amid milkwood trees. There’s a river on the doorstep to explore (whether dipping, fishing, paddling, water-skiing or cruising), and the “Jumping Rock” to discover. There are several spaces for playing games and hanging out together, and the bougainvillea-festooned verandah and swimming pool are lovely spots from which to drink in the magnificent views. There’s also a jetty and smaller riverside deck (gorgeous for early-morning coffee), and at day’s end, a firepit and a hot tub from which to bask in the glow of sunset or stargaze.
The lodgings
- Main house: 5 bedrooms (1 king bed, 1 queen, 4 single beds, 4 bunk beds)
- 3 shared bathrooms with showers
- Cottage: 2 ensuite bedrooms (XL double beds), with lounge and fireplace
- fully equipped kitchen with Nespresso machine + 4 fridges
- open-plan lounge and dining room with fireplace
- spacious deck with sofas, hanging chairs and loungers
- braai area and pizza oven
- smart TV with Netflix, Apple.tv and DStv
- bluetooth speaker
Things to do
- swim, SUP and kayak (equipment supplied)
- table tennis
- soak in the wood-fired hot tub
- cruise in the ski boat (additional cost, with skipper licence)
- walk, run or cycle the 8km riverside path
- nature trails
- fishing and birdwatching
- beaches nearby at Infanta and Witsand
- neighbourhood bush pub
Good to know Staff on hand take care of cleaning, fire-building and meal prep, if you wish.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 12
Cost From R14 500 per night
Where to find it Lemoentuin, near Malgas (29km from Swellendam)
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