For its rugged authenticity and sublime beach-cottage character, Berit’s Cottage in Churchhaven is the ideal spot for those lovely lagoon holidays.
A home that holds a lot of history and charm, adorned in sentimental pieces of art and classical beach bungalow furnishings, Berit’s Cottage is a tribute to the old Churchhaven. An affectionate nod to the romance of the way things were, back when the fishermen resided on the shores of the Langebaan lagoon. Lapping up the tranquil beauty of the West Coast. Yet with all of the little luxuries and creature comforts one might need, from an off-the-grid, serene retreat in the wilderness.
In keeping with the laidback ambience of Churchhaven and its lovely community of lagoon swimmers and walkers, the cottage offers two spacious double rooms, with two bathrooms, a fully-equipped kitchen and separate dining space, and gorgeous living area. French doors lead out onto a long stoep with a boma and braai area, loungers and languid seating areas delivering views of the lagoon and its beautiful turquoise waters. An outdoor shower lends itself as that prefect rinse-off spot after a morning spent in the water. The sunbirds will be mimicking your moments beneath the spray from their very own birdbath. Nature’s display of life on the lagoon always within frame, as you look out over the landscape. Absorbing the natural tones of the fynbos, that’s home to the tortoises, the ostriches, the porcupines and the bountiful species of birdlife.
Berit’s Cottage is settled upon the Schrywershoek section of the lagoon, where you’ll have access to the nature walks, the shoreline and the lovely, quiet seclusion of the village. With only a few houses neighbouring you. Whatever’s on the cards for you and your little clan, you’ll up with the birds and the paddle boards, making your way across the endless calm of blue. Back to the cottage for a slow brunch on the shaded stoep. Gradually merging your morning with the afternoon as you recline somewhere tranquil, ensconced in the chapters of a novel, listening to the cackles of laughter and chitter chatter ripple from the water’s edge. Evenings around the boma watching the flames dance and disappear into the night’s sky. Where the stars are out in all of their glory. Yes, Berit’s Cottage emits an age-old nostalgia of what this village might have been like a hundred years ago. Except you and your favourite four, looking oh so young and refreshed, having spent some much-needed time in the West Coast wilderness. Lapping up the wonders of the lagoon. Just like the fishermen used to do.
What we love!
- After spending most of the day in the water, a warm rinse under the outdoor shower, overlooking the lagoon and into nature, brings a blissful awareness to the beauty of the surroundings.
- Being located directly on the water’s edge, you’ll have access to all of the water sports including fishing, canoeing and paddle boarding.
- Sleeping with all of the doors and windows open, feeling at peace with the surroundings.
What you need to know…
- The property is as off-the-grid as they come. You will have solar-powered appliances and slight cellphone reception, but there is currently no WIFI.
- It’s recommended that you stock up on all of your essential supplies, groceries and goodies prior to arriving in Churchhaven.
- The West Coast National Park gate opens and closes at certain times – In winter, between the months of April and August, the gate opens at 07h00 and closes again at 17h30. In summer, between the months of September and March, the gate opens at 07h00 and closes again at 18h30. Once the gate is closed, you cannot gain entry. A conservation fee is payable per person, upon entry into the park all year round.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie