A treehouse located in Betty’s Bay in the Western Cape, Kloof House is a tranquil mountain retreat, for friends to gather in the Kogelberg Nature Reserve.
There’s a resounding statement on sustainability etched into the timber of Kloof House. Evident in its circular form, meandering around the Kaapse boekenhout trees that mark their occupation of the landscape with propriety. Nothing removed from its original environment, as if its nature that’s imposed itself upon the home. Retaining the cycle of life and its delicate ecosystem, the trees remain for the birds and the music of the mountain breeze, and the old river bed flows once again, into the freshwater circular swimming pool. It’s an ongoing romantic gesture of give and take and give-back, at this beautiful three-bedroomed sanctuary, below the Kogelberg mountains.
David Talbot designed this enchanting home. With a steel substructure, locally and sustainably sourced forested cross-laminated timber, thermo-pine cladding on the outside, and endless curves of glass, this hideaway is completely concrete-less. A treehouse that escorts you along the branches of its forefathers through the canopy of leaves where Warblers, Sugarbirds, Sunbirds and Dusky Flycatchers nest. Floating and flowing with the mountain air, that travels back inside to the living, cooking, reading, reclining and reflecting pockets of harmony. Homemade materials, handmade terrazzo tiles, family ceramic treasures and consciously considered design features that the owners have emphatically stitched into the fabric of the interiors. All contributing to the chrysalis of the home that takes a back seat to the nature that engulfs it. The views of the folding green mountains, the access to the rivers and streams, the mountain trails to the waterfalls and highest tips of the reserve.
With the design mirroring what’s going on outside, you’ll feel as if you’ve spent all of your time outdoors. Rising with the sun creeping up against the mountain, you’ll stare out at Leopard’s Kloof as if it’s an evolving rippled mirage of emerald. The first coffee in the little lounge in the main ensuite, chased by the second in the kitchen. Looking out into the forest, listening to its early morning story. Time to feel the air and smell the mountain trails. Off for a picnic at the waterfall or simply walk down to the natural swimming pool, where you can wade about in the blissful, revitalising water. Perhaps an afternoon trip to the beach for long walks and ocean wildlife spotting. A couple of the clan might like to hang back at home, reading in the library, tending to a bit of writing as the views plant the words onto the blank page. Preparation of a late afternoon feasting ensues. The lovely kitchen or outdoor braai area beckons. All gathered around the large table outside. Witnessing the odd genet and mongoose scurry through the fynbos, with the occasional porcupine dropping its quill as evidence.
When night sets in, it’s just you, your holiday clan, and the stars. Relaxing in the wood-fired hot tub with the odd leopard call in the distance and the murmurs from the mountain breeze. A few resident Owl tweets and chatty little Nightjars. That’s why you’re here, and that’s why Kloof House was created. To settle amidst the mountains, within the Kogelberg biosphere, that’s as tranquil as a midsummer night’s dream amongst the trees.
What we love!
- Waking up and looking out directly onto Leopard’s Kloof. In the winter months, the waterfall cascades down the mountain.
- Having a slow, leisurely breakfast in the kitchen, listening to the birds and watching them begin their days with yours.
- Spending many of your holiday hours in the natural swimming pool. It may appear on the smaller side of pools, but its 4m diameter provides ample space to bob about with the whole clan.
- The views of the mountains and Harold Porter Botanical Gardens can be enjoyed from every room.
What you need to know…
- The property has access to many lovely hiking trails, including Rod’s trails directly on your doorstep.
- Head to Jock’s Bay for a dip in the ocean. Only 1km away from the property.
- The pool is chemical-free and therefore naturally green.
- Baboons frequent this property.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie