All photos: obsessivelycreativedirected
Sitting pretty in the heart of nature.
Three adjoining, white apex barns stand sentinel in a dramatic landscape… In front of them a farm dam; in the distance, fields melding into the fynbos-covered slopes of the surrounding rugged mountains. And above them, big Overberg sky in all its varying moods.
Sharing the same 80-hectare farm as Hidden Haven in the Hemel-en-Aarde valley near Hermanus, Thuúla Haven is an off-grid, super-stylish zen-like space (and a popular backdrop for design and lifestyle shoots). Created to offer a calming retreat in magnificent surroundings, it’s a place that feeds the senses and the soul.
Enter the sanctuary
There is something cathedral-like about this dwelling, with its lofty ceilings, sense of space and enormous windows through which light pours. Early morning rose hues, midday sunshine, golden twilight and silvery moonlight – you’ll take note of these, because the interior decor does not distract from the landscape outside.
A calming natural palette – white walls, timber floors, lots of rattan, bamboo and blonde wood – frames the views and makes them even more mesmerising. This is a home in which you’ll “drift” and “sweep” between rooms, where you’ll “lounge” and “recline” in glorious nooks, resting and resetting and tuning in to the rhythms of nature.
Centre stage
The main barn is the hub, drawing residents to the open-plan living area to cook, chat, eat and play. Opening out onto the panoramic verandah, it’s just a stroll away from a dip in the dam (sure to become a twice-daily ritual). The bedrooms and bathrooms are more private cocoons.
It’s all beautifully furnished and appointed, but only with what you really need. The pleasure is in the details – a shower with a skylight, luxurious linen, rustic ceramic dinnerware for that picture-perfect alfresco dining table, a sunny studio space to do yoga or meditate…
The setting will draw you out to explore, where you’ll find plenty of joy – whether exploring the farm and discovering waterfalls, or further afield tasting the delights of this extraordinary valley. There are more than a dozen wonderful wine farms and winery eateries on your doorstep.
The lodgings
- 4 bedrooms (1 king,1 queen, 2 queens/ singles)
- 3 bathrooms (2 ensuite, 1 shared) with bath and/or shower
- fully equipped kitchen
- living and dining room with fireplace
- second lounge/sunroom
- kids’ playroom with TV
- 2 smart TVs (Netflix, Showmax, Disney+, DStv)
- furnished verandah with dining table
- braai area (plus firepit at the dam)
- yoga room
- lawn and garden area
Things to do
- swimming in two dams or mountain pools
- paddling on dams (SUP board supplied)
- farm walks and picnics
- hiking trails to three waterfalls
- wine-tasting nearby
- mountain-biking and horse-riding nearby
- markets, restaurants and more in Hermanus (30 minutes)
Good to know Serviced daily during the week; weekends for an additional fee.
Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes, by arrangement
Wifi? Yes
Sleeps 8
Cost From R8 000 per night
Where to find it Breevlei Farm, R320, Hemel-en-Aarde, Hermanus
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