Beach Villas

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!ere’s nothing quite like waking up on a beach. !at mesmerizing horizon, in matchless shades of blue. !e primordial, endless movement of the ocean, shimmering like a snake-skin in the sun. Being lulled by the waves, just meters from your feet. !e sensual pleasure

of sand between your toes, with nothing but a scu"ling crab to witness your footprints wash away. Because only when you live on it, do you experience the beach at its best—

peaceful, serene; deserted but for the seagulls heading into the se"ing sun.

V!""# B"#$%

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T his stylish three-levelled bungalow enjoys arguably the best possible location on Cape Town’s famously glitzy Atlantic Seaboard:

fall out of bed and you are lying on the gleaming white sands of Glen beach, backed by large granite boulders, and watching a great break rolling in. With two separate kitchens, this beach bungalow is ideal for two couples, possibly travelling with children, or a family travelling with a rather lucky au pair. Camps Bay, with its plethora of beach-view bars and restau-rants, lies a short stroll along the beach away. That is if you can tear yourself away from the cool comforts of home: o&ering that wonderful combination of unbri-dled luxury and unpretentious comfort, Villa Blanc’s finishes and furnishings are a soothing, clean, crisp white—a great contrast to the sparkling azure waters and indigo horizon that shimmers beyond every room.

A small exclusive enclave, much loved by

locals but largely missed by tourists, Villa Blanc is

located on Glen Beach, one of Cape Town’s

best-kept secrets.

AT A GLANCE

SLEEPS: 10 in 5 double rooms (can be changed to 4 doubles and 1 twin). LOCATION: Victoria Road, Glen Beach, Cape Town. LIVING SPACE: Enter the Moroccan doors

space and open-plan show kitchen. The living room has all the mod-cons, including a gas

sound speakers, and i-pod docking station, and a 3m long dining table with wooden benches. The kitchen has all the built-in appliances needed for hassle-free entertain-

adjacent, with open-plan living and dining area (table seats10 people); kitchen enjoys

BEDROOM CONFIGURATION: The main bed-room (king-sized bed) is huge, with its own living area (with TV and DVD player), dressing room and open-plan bathroom, all featuring stunning sea views. The en-suite bathroom features a Jacuzzi bath, big enough for two, and separate shower. The second en suite bedroom (queen-sized bed), also features a walk-in cupboard and Jacuzzi bath. The third bedroom is furnished with 2 singles that can be turned into a king, while the fourth bedroom has a double bed. Bedrooms 3 and 4

another double bedroom. The bedroom (with queen-sized bed) is en-suite and features a Jacuzzi bath and separate shower. OUTDOOR/FACILITIES: The entrance level leads out to an outdoor deck furnished with comfortable daybeds and showcasing the stunning sea views. The bedroom level also

a deck with plunge pool and a gas BBQ. Direct access to beach through Moroccan doors. Wi-Fi throughout. Garaging for one car and one more secure parking bay. SECURITY & SERVICES: Serviced daily. Fully alarmed, with armed response back-up. NEIGHBOURHOOD: Glen Beach is a small exclusive enclave adjacent to Camps Bay beach; much loved by locals but largely missed by tourists, it is one of Cape Town’s best-kept secrets, with only a handful of low-key homes clustered above the beach. Camps Bay—one of the most exciting happening nightlife areas in Cape Town, its restaurants and bars all facing the palm-lined beach and gorgeous sunsets—is walking distance away.

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G!"#$ V%&&'Like neighbouring Villa Blanc, this cool clapboard

bungalow hangs on the lip of bite-sized Glen beach, hidden from the world. Up in the penthouse,

cocooned in uncomplicated luxury, your focus is con-stantly drawn to the scene below your terrace. Views of the sky and the ocean spill in through gigantic glass doors; fold them away and the waves sound close enough to touch. Done out in chic coral hues o(set by dark wood, and patches of burnt orange, brown and tan, it’s a cosset-ing environment designed for romance - even the open-plan bathroom enjoys views of the sea and surfers rising

onto the Glen break, just beyond your sandy doorstep. The penthouse is an entirely self-su)cient, ideal for honey-mooners or young family, but if you’re traveling in a bigger group, the interconnecting four-bedroom house below will provide enough space for 11 thoroughly spoilt souls. Like most Gorge Villa guests, you’ll probably feel content doing nothing at all, other than perhaps occasionally sauntering over the rocks to see what all the fuss is about in Camps Bay—you’ll find plenty of social action there, but there’s nothing wrong with permanently stationing yourself on your own semi-secret beach, and remaining lost from view.

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AT A GLANCELOCATION: Victoria Road, Glen Beach, Cape Town. SLEEPS: Main house sleeps 7 in 3 doubles and 1 single. Penthouse sleeps 4 in 1 double and 1 twin. LIVING SPACES: Aside from the eye-catching views, the main house’s open-plan living area has a comfort-able suede lounge suite arranged

the pool area. The adjacent dining room (seats 10) is open to the well-equipped kitchen. The main open-plan living area in the penthouse is similarly furnished and equipped, though more compact; dining table here seats 4 to 6. BEDROOM CONFIGURATION: The main house has 4 bedrooms, all on the pool level. The main bedroom with king-size bed opens onto a private courtyard; the en-suite bathroom features separate tub and shower. Bedrooms 2 and 3 (both en-suite, shower only) are furnished with queen-size beds. The single bedroom has a separate bathroom (tub and shower). The penthouse above has two bedrooms, both with

stunning sea views; the main is furnished with king-size bed while second bedroom has 2 single beds. Both bedrooms are en-suite (sepa-rate tub and shower). OUTDOOR/FACILITIES: The timber and sandstone decks are furnished in comfortable couches/sun loung-ers arranged around the heated pool, and cold plunge pool at rear. Gas BBQ. SERVICES & SECURITY: Cleaned Monday to Friday; weekends and public holidays on request. No garaging. Fully alarmed with armed response back up. NEIGHBOURHOOD: Like Villa Blanc, Gorge VIlla is located on exclusive Glen Beach, the tiny enclave adjacent to Camps Bay. It is a favoured local spot, particu-larly with surfers, and is shared by a handful of lucky residents who live just above the beach. Camps Bay—one of the most exciting happening nightlife areas in Cape Town, with palm-lined beach and gorgeous sunsets, as well as a small retail heart—is a stroll away.

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Set into the sloping mane of Lion’s Head, Villa Yve!e is indeed king of all it surveys. From the crescent sweep of Camps Bay beach to the imposing granite

backdrop of the Twelve Apostles, standing guard over the gli!ering bay, every view is a postcard. Enjoy the most glorious sunset views with cocktail in hand from the rim-flow plunge pool on the edge of the deck, or recline in the sumptuously furnished lounge to the tinkling of the grand piano. Should you tire of drinking in Nature’s

spectacular panorama, there is so much more to please the eye. From the outstanding selection of contemporary South African, American and Italian art, to the ultra- luxurious finishes and thoughtful touches, every detail in the Villa has been hand-selected by the stylish owner. Add to this the clever use of space: spread over four floors, con-veniently connected with an internal glass-walled li", this Villa is able to host a sensational gathering, yet intimate and comfortable—the perfect family home, Hollywood-style.

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V#$$% Y&'(('

ADDRESS: Clifton Road, Clifton, Cape Town. SLEEPS: 12 in 6 double rooms. LIVING SPACES: The vast light-spilled living area, with unimpeded

plunge pool in the west, is located

staircase or internal lift. Entertain

table (seated on Philippe Starck’s Louis Ghost chairs), or kick back in either the formal or informal lounge. The adjoining kitchen is open-plan for showmanship

BEDROOM CONFIGURATION:

spacious main bedroom (king-size extra-length bed) with stupendous views, large walk-in cupboard area and luxurious double bathroom. Adjacent are three more en-suite bedrooms, each with views. There

(queen-size bed) with own lounge

as well as a smaller double en-suite bedroom. OUTDOOR/FACILITIES: Deck pool and outdoor shaded verandas.

Super spacious garage for four to six cars, including Aston Martin 2007, available for rental. Open-

SERVICES & SECURITY: Full time

Armed response back-up. NEIGHBOURHOOD: Villa Yvette is located in Clifton, the most expensive and exclusive real estate coastline in Cape Town: a haven

architecture and sunsets. Perched

with its plethora of restaurants and

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AT A GLANCE

V!""# A$#With easy access to the city, fynbos-smothered

mountains, and some of the world’s most sublime beaches, this chic villa is situated in

the heart of Camps Bay, one of Cape Town’s most sought-a%er coastal precincts. Built on the sheer slopes of the Twelve Apostles, the mountain range that culminates in the drop-dead gorgeousness of the city’s glitziest sunset strip, Villa Ava is built like a cocktail hour amphitheater, compelling you to drink in the view, and toast your good

fortune. Elegant, cool and clean-lined, Villa Ava o&ers plenty of breathing space, greatly enhanced by the mas-sive picture windows framing the Atlantic Ocean hori-zons. It’s a vista that’s impossible to tire of, but when you fancy a change of pace, it’s good to know that you’re in striking distance of Cape Town’s lively shopping scene, its unhinged nightlife, and all kinds of adventures, from paragliding o& Lion’s Head to climbing Table Mountain, or nipping round the Peninsula by helicopter.

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Villa Ava is built like a cocktail-hour

amphitheater, compelling you to drink

in the view and toast your good fortune.

AT A GLANCE

LOCATION: Medburn Road, Camps Bay, Cape Town. SLEEPS: 6 in 3 double rooms. LIVING SPACES: Aside from the uninter-rupted views, Villa Ava has a wonderful

dining area (seating 8), and a beauti-ful, modern kitchen with stainless steel

seamless access to the pool and more gorgeous views. Overall design is clean and contemporary, and the additional family room is a great area for kids to relax and entertain themselves.

The main en-suite bedroom has a small lounge and stunning sea views from the king-size bed. The two en-suite guest bedrooms, both with queen-sized beds, feature views of Camps Bay beach and the Twelve Apostles respectively.

-

is surrounded by a wooden deck and lawn

entertainment area. There is a gas BBQ

The house is

armed response back-up.

the most accessible beach in the city—a mere 10- to 15-minute drive over Kloof Nek into the city center (although in rush

crescent lined with tall palm trees, the Camps Bay strip is also one of the most happening nightlife spots in Cape Town.

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Built above the dense green coastal vegeta-tion, with judicious

use of dark stone to reflect the smooth boulders that define the tiny coastal enclave of Llandudno, this designer home is the essence of pared-down glamour. Well elevated, yet within walking distance to Llandudno and Sandy Bay beaches, the villa o!ers glori-ous 180-degree views from every room. With floor-to- ceiling glass walls that fold away completely, seamless

flooring, and no clu"er to distract, the ocean surround-ings are celebrated from every angle, whether enveloped in your pure-co"on percale bed or celebrating yet another glo-rious sunset on the capacious deck. Keep cool in the lap pool below, where views are enhanced by swaying blooms in the pre"y indigenous hillside garden. Then book a spa therapist for a private massage, or simply lie back on a lounger and allow the rhythmic sound of the ocean to create a similarly meditative state.

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L#$%&'&%( B)$*+ V,##$

With no clutter to distract, the coastal surrounds are celebrated from every angle, while the rhythmic sound of the ocean will reduce you to an equally meditative state.

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AT A GLANCELOCATION: Sunset Avenue, Llandudno Beach, Cape Town. SLEEPS: 12 in 6 double rooms, or 4 double rooms and 2 twin-bedded rooms. LIVING SPACE: Designed by award-winning architect Johann Slee, the modern open-plan living area has wonderful proportions, and

suites. The Villa’s home automation system

used throughout blends inside-outside living, punctuated with plush rugs. The open-plan gourmet kitchen features chef’s essentials such as a steam oven, gas stove, Teppanyaki hot plate and a great selection of utensils. BEDROOM CONFIGURATION: All 6 bedrooms are identical in size and feature king-size extra-length beds with uninterrupted views opening onto private sun decks. Two are situated on the upper level; the remaining four on the pool deck level. In-room amenities include TVs with surround sound, DVD players, A/C, stocked mini bars (included in rate), mobile telephones, and international plug points. The bed linen is pure cotton percale with a thread count of 600.

and separate tubs and rain showers.

OUTDOOR/FACILITIES: Living areas open onto the spacious wrap-around Balau deck, which is furnished with oversized, comfort-able deck furniture, dining tables and chairs and a built-in barbecue. On the lower level

-decks, sun loungers as well as a steam room and a guest bathroom with a shower. Wi-Fi throughout. Small boardroom. SERVICING & SECURITY: Serviced daily. Villa housekeeper and butler included in the rate. Daily champagne breakfasts included, as are

selected wines, beers, spirit coolers and soft drinks. In-house chef on arrangement. NEIGHBOURHOOD: Llandudno is an entirely separate coastal village on the Atlantic sea-board, embraced by imposing mountains on the coastal route that runs between Camps Bay and Hout Bay. Built on steep slopes that culminate in a picture-perfect beach, the village is home to tousle-haired surfers and millionaires alike. There are no shops, giving it a uniquely laid-back atmosphere, while Hout Bay’s great retail and restaurant options, and fabulous activities are a short hop away. Camps Bay, the city and Waterfront are all within easy reach along one of the most scenic roads in the world.

R!"#$%% H!&'$With the mountains at your back and the arc

of False Bay at your feet, Rodwell House— built in the 1930s by billionaire randlord

J.B. Taylor—feels o(-the-beaten track, yet brings you easy access to the Peninsula’s more subtle pleasures. From here, it’s a short hop to swim with the Boulders’ penguins, or the empty beaches of Cape Point, or visit the Constantia wine estates. Easier still, pop downstairs to plunder one of the country’s finest private cellars. With its terraced garden

and patios, comfortable lounges and impeccably stylish suites, it’s an Old World kind of place but far from old-fashioned, with graciously integrated modern conven-iences to complement the pukka period elements. Rise early to watch the locals taking their daily dip in the refresh-ing waters of the tidal pool; be)er still, shed your shoes and join them. In true colonial spirit, just about anything’s possible, thanks to impeccable sta( who make you feel at ease in a space that’s homely and regal in equal measure.

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In true colonial spirit, anything is possible here,

creating an atmosphere that’s homely and regal

in equal measure.

AT A GLANCE

LOCATION: Rodwell Road, St James, Cape Town. SLEEPS: 16 in 8 doubles. A 9th suite is available by prior arrangement. LIVING SPACES: Multiple lounges, terraces, dining areas, library and drawing room

renowned art collection (Amex USA Top 10 Hotel Art Collections in the World, 2009). BEDROOM CONFIGURATION: Seven en-suite

Moroccan-style courtyard. All feature private balconies or patios; most enjoy gorgeous sea views. Various sizes, all furnished to the same exacting standard as the public spaces. Six of the suites feature 2-person tubs and walk-in showers; two are shower only. OUTDOOR/FACILITIES: Large pool fed by a mountain stream, set in landscaped gardens

terrace for al fresco dining. Moroccan-style courtyard with fountain. Excellent wine cellar and tasting room with sommelier. Wine-maker dinners and bespoke wine tours. Contemporary art gallery, bar and casual TV lounge, in-suite massages and treatments. Gym. Wi-Fi. Secure parking for 5 cars. SERVICES & SECURITY: On-site management

Breakfast included. Walled privacy and security. NEIGHBOURHOOD: St James, known as the ‘millionaire’s mile’ of False Bay, has a wonderfully genteel atmosphere; quite

bars, coastal walks, safe bathing, water taxis,

and much, much more are on your doorstep.

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T!" S# J$%"&A century ago the slopes overlooking False

Bay were the favoured seaboard of the country’s wealthy Randlords, who built

grand mansions here, eager to escape from the pressures of making millions on their highveld mines, but not the pleasures of high society. Now this sweep of coast is making a comeback as one of the trendiest areas to stay in Cape Town, with quaint boutiques, art galleries, independent theatre and a plethora of restaurant choices. Just above the tidal pools and beach, a five minute

stroll from the fishing harbour of Kalk Bay, The St James is, like nearby Rodwell House, typical of the stately turn-of-the-century retreats, beautifully cra'ed and detailed, from the chiselled sandstone exterior to the carved wooden interior panelling, salvaged from an old shipwreck. Now owned by Rovos, creators of the most luxurious trains in the world, The St James underwent a thorough revamp in 2009, and the grand old lady of ‘Millionaire’s Mile’ is now preened, ready to receive the next generation of illustrious guests.

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AT A GLANCE

ADDRESS: Main Road, St James, Cape Town.

SLEEPS: 12 adults in 5 double rooms and 1 twin-bedded room.

LIVING SPACES: A spacious mansion with various lounges and a large dining room table for private dinners as well as several individual tables. There is a comfortable library and internet lounge as well as a circular sun room.

BEDROOM CONFIGURATION: Six en-suite bedrooms. Four sea-facing suites with lounge areas. The twin room has an en-suite bathroom with glassed in shower over the bath. All other bedrooms have bathrooms with tubs and separate showers. All bedrooms have A/C, TV, DVD

complimentary minibar.

OUTDOOR/FACILITIES: Beautiful sea-facing garden as well as a raised terrace in the back with a heated salt water pool, all with wonderful views of the False Bay coast.

SERVICES & SECURITY: Serviced

personalized concierge services. Breakfasts are inclusive, as are all beverages. Secure walled entrance; state-of-the-art alarm and armed response back-up.

NEIGHBOURHOOD: Five minutes stroll from your front door lies the charming Kalk Bay harbour-side village, which attracts locals and visitors all year round. You

in one of a number of excellent seafood restaurants. Main Road is a hive of novel antique and boutique style shops, delis and

access to Boulders Beach, Cape Point and Constantia. Numerous walking trails in the mountains. Perhaps the biggest attraction is the land-based whale watching, often appearing literally meters from the shoreline ( July-Dec).

This sweep of coast is making a comeback as one of the city’s

trendiest options.

B!"#$%&$'( V!))'There can be few be*er places

to spot your first whale than reclining in this elegant beach

villa, in such close proximity you’ll swear you can feel its spray on the wind. Perched above the rocky cli+s of Walker Bay, a few steps from the beach, the ever-changing seascape draws the eye west, following the trajectory of the sun, while the sweeping heights of the Overberg mountain range forms a majestic back-drop. Drink it all in from your private balcony—leading o+ each lavishly

decorated suite —or your king-size bed, or gather together around the pool and grassy decks. The house also o+ers direct access to the beach, and there is always someone on hand to pack a picnic basket and a couple of bats at the drop of your beach hat. The elegant, open-plan design of the house means the doors are always flung wide open, with that great sense of being outdoors even when ensconced in a comfortable couch, and sandy feet are never frowned upon. Cool, classy and discreet—the perfect beach retreat.

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AT A GLANCELOCATION: Voëlklip, Hermanus, Western Cape. SLEEPS: 12 adults in 5 doubles. LIVING SPACES: One lounge area and one dining area, open-plan to the kitchen. Sliding doors from

through to pool area. Wonderful

throughout. BEDROOM CONFIGURATION: Four

and 4 can accommodate extra beds or a cot. Room 5 has no space for an extra bed but can accommodate a

(included in rate). OUTDOOR/FACILITIES:

access to the beach. SERVICES & SECURITY:

NEIGHBOURHOOD: The Whale

residential area in Hermanus,

has a great selection of shops—a

M!""#$%#&' V($$)All that separates Mosselberg

Villa from the so* white sands of Hermanus’ famous

blue flag beach is a dense green car-pet of proteas, restios and ericas—a richly textured indigenous garden that blends with the natural vegeta-tion, and is appealing as the blue wa-ters that shimmer beyond. Designed by Johann Slee, one of South Africa’s leading architects, this is the kind of sprawling villa that invites big-time entertaining in the huge sheltered courtyard-cum-living areas and

decks, all flowing inexorably to face the sea, as well as lazy days hibernat-ing in the many private nooks. It’s a skillful blend of private and public spaces, with interconnecting roo*op walkways creating an intimacy that is ideal for wedding parties or fami-lies. And while every bedroom has a sea view, perhaps the most alluring views are those of the mountain the villa is named for —the imposing Mosselberg, standing sentinel over the continent’s most famous whale-watching bay.

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This is the kind of sprawling villa that

invites big-time entertaining in the

sheltered courtyard as well as lazy days

hibernating in the many private nooks.

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AT A GLANCE

LOCATION: Grotto Beach, Hermanus, Western Cape.

SLEEPS: 10 adults in 5 double rooms and up to 6 children sharing.

LIVING SPACES: The main lounge area, with large wood-burning hearth, is open-plan to the kitchen and dining room, with doors that disappear to cre-

courtyard to the timber deck overlook-ing the fynbos garden and ocean. There is a secondary lounge with TV, DVD and pool table opening onto the pool and courtyard. There is an enormous amount of seating with two 8- to 10-seater tables and a host of smaller tables in the indoor-outdoor area.

BEDROOM CONFIGURATION: Bed-rooms are all spacious, with seating space and minibar area, and views.

second level with balconies overlook-ing the sea, the mountain or both.

view, opens onto courtyard. All have large sliding doors and shutters. Every bedroom is en-suite, all with shower, separate tub and 2 basins. All bed-rooms have walk-in cupboards.

OUTDOOR/FACILITIES: Large private courtyard, partly shaded verandah, with BBQ area and 10-12 seater table around pool area. Deck in front with loungers to enjoy sea view. Well-

cars; lock-up garage for 1 car.

SERVICES & SECURITY: Serviced daily by a team of ladies. Live-in house-keeper and manageress. Secure walled entrance. State-of-the-art alarm with armed response back-up.

NEIGHBOURHOOD: The Whale Coast, of which the coastal town of Hermanus

beautiful) 90-minute coast-hugging drive from Cape Town. Close enough to the buzz, but in a quiet, tranquil environment, the Villa is a 5-minute drive away from Hermanus centre, or a leisurely hour-long walk along beautiful

The fynbos path to Grotto beach takes a few minutes. The nearest supply or grocery store is 1km away. The Her-manus Golf Course is 5 minutes away.

V!""# D#$!%L ow-slung dark grey walls glimpsed behind

dense green foliage and bleached tree trunk fence announce the presence of

something rather sexy in the otherwise low-key coastal enclave of De Kelders. But the real sur-prise is when you step beyond the fortress-like gate through an enchanting indigenous garden, and into the entrance hall. Looking across the artfully decorated spaces (so delightful, one barely notices the sea view glistening beyond) is akin to stepping into a Fabergé egg: every inch considered. It’s a rare talent that can for instance see the potential for a 70s corduroy sofa set to be the finishing touch in a luxurious bedroom,

but owner-designer Neil has that indefinable eye that can put together the well-thumbed with the bespoke, making the most of both in the process. Be&er still, the house is thoroughly lived in, with racks of magazines, books, CDs and videos, and a kitchen and dining room equipped with every-thing you’ll need for five-star entertaining—just like home, only be&er, because a short stroll from your front door lies a beach that stretches for miles—prefect for early morning strolls, laid-back whale-watching, or simply enjoying the sun with specially packed picnics, chosen from the gourmet stock your host David has hand-picked to celebrate your arrival.

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Looking across the artfully decorated

spaces is akin to stepping into a

Fabergé egg: every inch considered.

AT A GLANCE

ADDRESS: Main Road, De Kelders, Gansbaai, Western Cape. SLEEPS: 6 adults in 2 double rooms and 1 twin-bedded room. LIVING SPACES: The spacious and luxurious living area is centered

area (extendable 12-seater antique table) is open to the lounge, which is divided into two sitting areas by a 3m wood-inlay antique Italian table. Floor-to-ceiling cabinet of curiosities, housing collected items as well as books, magazines, CDs, videos and DVDs for entertainment, relaxation and inspiration. From here a glass walled alcove extends from the lounge area, housing a piano and day bed. Open-plan cooking area with wide counter and stools. Around the corner is the kitchen ‘wet’ area that leads to the separate laundry and pantry areas. BEDROOM CONFIGURATION: The three en-suite bedrooms all

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have their own outside areas with views either over the garden or to the mountains behind the house. Room 1 has a queen-size bed, and a full en-suite bathroom with spa bath and shower. Room 2 is styl-

en-suite shower room and separate toilet. The open-plan lounge area leads to the private patio garden. Room 3 has a king-size bed, also with lounge area. Shower room and toilet are en-suite and there is a small practical study space. OUTDOOR/FACILITIES: Leading from the lounge, the wide terrace is ideal for afternoon tea, or sunset drinks looking out over the private Overberg garden, the village of De Kelders and the sweep of Walker Bay. The terrace houses an old fashioned Dover oven as well as

section is secluded and shaded by

and reclining available. Outside

SERVICES & SECURITY: Serviced daily. Rate includes breakfast (if desired), and stocked fridge with local delicacies. Secure walled entrance. State-of-the-art alarm.

throughout. NEIGHBOURHOOD: Gansbaai—a quieter, less frenetic option to its better known coastal cousin, Her-

deserted beaches, as well as sen-sational marine attractions: From the world’s best shark-cage diving experience at nearby Dyer Island, to guided kayaking trips and some of the coast’s best boat- and shore-based whale watching. There are also numerous trails in the moun-tains to discover the Cape’s fynbos on foot or horseback. Climb the stairs at Danger Point’s lighthouse, or visit the southernmost tip of Africa at Cape Agulhas. White wine lovers may also be interested to know that the nearby tiny Elim wine region produces some of the best Sauvignon Blanc in the country.

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LOCATION: Noetzie Beach, Pezula Estate (near Knysna), Western Cape.

SLEEPS: 10 adults in 5 doubles.

LIVING SPACES: Main Castle has a living room on each level and a 10-seater dining room. Honeymoon Castle has an open plan living and dining room which opens onto a terrace. The three castles can only be booked as a single exclusive-use unit.

BEDROOM CONFIGURATION: Main Castle has 3 suites. Honeymoon

AT A GLANCE

P!"#$%C%&'$!

The most unusual beach residence on the continent, Pezula Castle rises from the cli(s above a cres-

cent sweep of golden beach, its northern tip defined by the tea-coloured river emptying into the warm Indian Ocean. With the beach so empty as to be virtu-ally private, and back-dropped by lush, dense indigenous vegetation typical of the aptly named Garden Route, the Castle

feels totally secluded, yet is minutes from Knysna and its bustling restaurants and quaint shops. That’s if you can bear to tear yourselves away from your royal lodgings: with just five suites in three separate castle units, it o(ers friends or family unheard of privacy, and the most romantic views of a beach that is regular-ly rated by insiders as the most beautiful on South Africa’s 2500km coastline.

Castle has its own suite, as does

stunning sea views and open onto balconies overlooking the beach.

and separate tubs and showers.

OUTDOOR/FACILITIES: There is a heated outdoor pool in the garden of the Main Castle. Honeymoon Castle has its own terrace with heated plunge pool. A gazebo perched above the sands provides shaded lounging. Fully-equipped gym.

SERVICES: A discreet team to see to every need, including a personal chef and a 24/7 driver for on-site transfers. Rates include all meals, snacks and drinks as well as the many activities on the resort, including hiking and canoeing ex-cursions, tennis, archery, pétanque, horseriding and use of the golf practise range.

SURROUNDS: Part of the Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa, Castle guests enjoy full access to amazing facilities.

The Castle is only 10 minute’s drive from the cosmopolitan town of Kny-

restaurants and speciality shops. Lagoon cruises and excursions to local animal sanctuaries close to Plettenberg Bay, as well as the Cango Caves and ostrich farms of Oudtshoorn can easily be arranged.

adventure activities in the area, including bunjy jumping, diving and forest canopy tours.

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V!""#$ %& L!' M(G)#*+

Set like a gem in the centre of Bahia Formosa, ‘Beautiful Bay’,

as the Portuguese sailors first named this pre,y curve of white sands in the permanent embrace of the blue-tinged Tsitsikamma mountains, Ple,enberg Bay is one of South Africa’s best-loved holiday destinations. And these three villas, individu-ally styled by Liz McGrath, all make the most of the bay’s beauty—each with a di-erent architectural style, but located in the best positions, and sharing a sense of cool space in ocean blues and soothing shades of white and taupe. So whether you are a large, active group wanting to be on Ple,’s ‘Millionaire’s Mile’ (right across the road from Robberg beach) in swish Beachyhead Villa; or a more laid-back gathering looking to lose yourself in views from the appropriately named Lookout Villa, or prefer the intimate elegance of Beach House (where you enjoy all the luxuries that come with being adjacent to The Ple,enberg, Liz McGrath’s 5-star boutique hotel), the best of Ple, is at your disposal. Within walking distance of the beach, enjoying a bird’s-eye view of one of the most mammal-rich bays in Africa, yet ensconced in your own richly textured world.

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great locations on or overlooking the

‘Beautiful Bay’, providing cool

spaces in soothing shades of white.

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AT A GLANCE

LOCATION: Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape.

SLEEPS: Beachyhead Villa sleeps 12. Lookout Villa sleeps 6. Beach House sleeps 4.

LIVING SPACES: Beachyhead Villa: Open-plan

glass doors allowing for showcase entertaining (12 seater dining table; beautifully equipped kitchen) and easy access to the swimming pool

screen television, DSTV and full surround sound system. Lookout Villa: Open-plan lounge and dining area (seating 10) on a split level; open to galley kitchen. The lounge (full audio and video

leads out onto a covered patio area with seating for 6. The patio is separated from the pool deck

and multi-levelled, with lounge, small service kitchen, dining room (seating 6), bedrooms, and pool deck. The lounge, situated on the upper

system with surround sound.

BEDROOM CONFIGURATION: Beachyhead Villa:

of them en-suite. Two large main bedrooms on

bedrooms each with private courtyards; direct access to the outside patio and pool area. En-suite bathrooms feature large tubs and walk-in showers. Lookout Villa: Three en-suite bedrooms, all with A/C and TVs. The main bedroom leads out onto the deck and private pool. All bathrooms have separate baths and showers. Beach House: Two en-suite (separate baths and showers) bedrooms, both A/C with TVs. The main bedroom (four-poster king) leads onto a deck and private swimming pool, with spectacular views.

OUTDOOR/FACILITIES: Beachyhead Villa: Upper

Covered barbeque area and sundeck surround the pool. Lookout Villa & Beach House: Pool with terrace. A/C and Wi-Fi throughout all villas.

SERVICES & SECURITY: All rates include break-fast. Beachyhead Villa: Housekeeper to see to needs and prepare breakfast daily (included in rate). Remote controlled gates. Secure parking for 3 cars. Lookout Villa & Beach House: Serviced

parking for 2 cars.

NEIGHBOURHOOD:known, vies with Hermanus as the country’s most popular coastal destination: some of the best swimming beaches in South Africa, glam restau-rants and a host of adventure activities within easy striking distance, including the most superb marine safaris, particularly from July to October.