Summer Rose – Bakoven is one of those tranquil pockets of paradise on the Atlantic Seaboard that dishes up a deluge of attributes. It’s one of those dreamy seaside destinations that positions itself well within the hub of the happenings, yet stealthily secludes itself from the chatter. Stretching along the curves of Camps Bay, directly beneath the mountain’s apostles and cushioned around the sheltered turquoise coves, Bakoven is where the discerning beach-goers retreat to, where the action is as riveting as it is serene. Where bonny beach bungalows – both old and young – settle themselves down narrow lanes and cobbled footpaths, overlooking the boulders that break the ocean’s waves. Where friends and families gather under their brollies enjoying the calmer, tepid waters of Bali, Beta, and Bakoven beaches, for hours and hours on end.
Slightly removed from the hullabaloo of Bakoven beach, no more than a five-minute walk from the water’s edge, looking up towards the mountain, lion’s head, and out over the eternal canvas of blue, Summer Rose invites you into a placid existence where two worlds meet. Where contemporary comforts, vast open spaces of light, refined lines, and vibrant colour, meet the Majorelle gardens of Yves Saint Laurent in Marrakesh. An inspired influence that’s evident in the riad – in the tiles, the textiles, the prints, and pieces of furnishings that have been sourced and collected by the owner’s worldly excursions. Set on two levels of wonderful, open spaces all maximising on the views of the ocean and the mountain, this hideaway reveals its story in its sentimental statements on style. On how healthy it is to live a life that’s inspirited by freedom. The contemporary African and South American artwork tells another poignant story of community; blending all of the spaces together with their conversation. The beautiful three ensuite bedrooms all beckon you into their spaces with a luxurious understatement. Not that you’ll be sending more than the necessary hours in the bedrooms.
You’ll rise with your brew and watch the sun climb the back of the mountain, peaking the tips and landing on the waves in front. A few early morning laps in the pool or perhaps a short meander down to the beach for a brave Atlantic dip. The seals and gulls will greet you with their dawn enthusiasm. A lovely brunch around the table with all of the doors and shutters open, as Ali Farka Touré’s tunes, waft out with the sea air, joining the cackles from the beach-goers below. Perhaps a hike into the mountain or a visit to a marketplace. Lunch on the main strip or a long coastal drive. Whatever’s on the cards for the day, you and your clan will mix it up with Summer Rose’s ongoing sentiments of living well as free as one can be. You’ll return to the bungalow, which cocoons you from the outside world yet whisks you out with the views simultaneously. An evening spent watching the sunset, feasting around the table, listening to the waves and the wonderful, happy shrills from your favourite people. Some might fancy a spot of TV before reclining, whilst others will drift off with that holiday novel that’s remarkably reminiscent of the paradise that’s unfolding at Summer Rose.
What we love!
- Spending time in the Moroccan-inspired courtyard – the riad – that’s sheltered and warm, tranquil and serene. The perfect place to hang out beside the pool when the beaches are too busy.
- The magnificent views of the mountain, its twelve apostles, lion’s head, and the ocean that engulf all of the living and entertaining spaces, the lovely deck, and the ensuite bedrooms.
- The property is full of vibrancy with its beautiful pieces of art and statement furnishings that tie in the authenticity of a bungalow with a contemporary home layered in comfort.
What you need to know…
- The residential area of Bakoven is home to some lovely residents, who cherish the calm, tranquil sounds coming from the sea. Please respect the wishes of the neighbours and keep your noise levels down, so as not to disturb the peace and nature.
- Camps Bay is only a 10-minute walk away from the bungalow, where a popular strip of cafés, bars, restaurants, boutiques, supermarkets, and ice-cream shops are buzzing all day long.
- There is housekeeping available – 3 days a week – to assist with the upkeep and cleaning of the property, and even a great breakfast if required.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie