There’s something so alluring about Cape St. Francis that’s very rarely discovered in other seaside villages. An authentic essence to it that declares its rugged, rawness as a novelty. A beguiling community that comes with it. A jolly holiday destination for the whole clan, where the beautiful beaches and stunning nature trails incite an escapist’s appetite for adventure. A surfer’s nirvana, a mountaineer’s bliss, a vacationist’s Valhalla. Encapsulating every little thing, that every lovely travelling member would want out of a holiday by the sea.
Settled above the dunes that bridge the sandy pathways leading directly onto the main beach, Cape Casa is a very well-thought-out contemporary bungalow that superbly maximises on its positioning. Its vast open-plan living, cooking, dining and entertaining spaces sit upstairs. Allowing the sweeping views of the ocean to engulf every room. Five ensuite bedrooms – four of which rest downstairs on the ground floor – offer the perfect tranquil haven for guests to retreat to. Elegantly stylish interiors that have been stitched together in their neutral tones, layered in textures and adorned in comfort. It’s a new build so with it comes the luxury of modern amenities and state-of-the-art appliances. There’s ample entertaining space on both levels. The back courtyard downstairs lends itself as the perfect place to cocoon yourselves from any breeze or harsh summer sun. Around the bar and heated swimming pool, playing boardgames and darts. Whilst some are braaing others are playing croquet on the lawn. Perhaps a round of cricket or a snooze on the sun loungers with a book. There’ll be a lot of feasting, a lot of games and a lot of bonding with the clan. That’s what this home is for. Catching up with your favourite people, tapping into the magic of Cape St. Francis.
For all of the other hours around the day, you’ll be in the surf, on the nature trails or cruising the village’s coffee shops and delicatessens. Cycling around the village barefoot. Long walks on the beach, watching the boats and the whales and the birds. The surfers, the swimmers and the shell-pickers in motion. A riveting display of what life is like in this rugged, raw jewel of a place. Where you get to fine-tune that laissez-faire approach to everything. Just like the locals do.
What we love!
- Waking up with the whales and watching them from the glorious master ensuite, or the comfy sofas of the living area that drift through the large glass sliding doors, and out to sea.
- Enjoying a coffee on the dunes in the morning, watching the surfers glide through the waves. Then heading out for a long walk along the shoreline before a hearty brunch.
- If you don’t feel like waking up and cooking, breakfast at Bruce’s or Nevermind next to the lighthouse are great alternatives.
What you need to know…
- There is a lovely housekeeper and gardener who are available full-time to provide assistance during your stay.
- The local Spar in the village is so well-stocked you’ll be able to source whatever you like. Even wasabi. Speaking of wasabi, the fish market at the harbour is well worth a visit.
- Head to The Quays on the canals for a fabulous pizza evening.
- There is an outdoor shower and great surf rack for wetsuits and beach towels to be hung to dry.
- Make sure you visit Francis Artisan Bakery for some fabulous fresh bakes and Coastal Collective for a delicious coffee. They also hire out bikes for a good cycle around town.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie