Perched on the rugged cliffs of the George Private Nature Reserve, hovering above the long stretch of shoreline between Ballots and Victoria Bay, cushioned into the ocean shrub, the thriving fynbos and milkwood forests, Oblivion emerges from the soil it so reverently occupies and escorts you on an outlandish adventure into the wilds of Wilderness.
In keeping with nature’s narrative – so as not to disturb the ecosystem of the surroundings – this serene hideaway sustainably spreads its bones of raw poplar, solid oak, natural granite and glass, and gives way to the soul of the ocean, the mountains and abounding nature to set the mood. Two levels of open-plan consciously considered living, dining and reclining spaces have been seamlessly stitched together, optimising on the breathtaking views and abundance of natural light. Its interiors honouring local designers and artisans, raw natural materials, neutral tones and textures. A palpable tribute to the wonders of our country’s organic resources. An homage to the designers inspired by them.
You’re likely to inherit this passion for off-the-grid living, allowing the land to declare the daily itinerary during your stay. You’ll take hold of the owners’ baton and hold it with affection. Mornings begin with a coffee in bed, connecting with the waves, the song of the Knysna Loeries and the crisp mountain air. Onto the many hiking trails amidst the fynbos. Through the meadows, spotting the occasional Zebra and Black Wildebeest. Into the magic forest and along flowing rivers. Perhaps a dip into Cleopatra’s tidal pool before brunch. An hour or two of work at your own little desk, looking out towards the cliffs and the waves below. A swim in the heated swimming pool followed by a good baking in the afternoon sun on the bean bags. The whales and the dolphins are likely to put on a sublime sunset display in the surf. As your tipple gets topped up and the kids gather around the fire with some boardgames, you’ll plant yourself on the sofa, listening to the cackles, drifting your gaze out over the headlands. When the stars come out, they’ll remind you of your remoteness. Nothing but you and the universe gilding into oblivion. Time to run a bath, submerge yourself beneath the night’s sky, above the twirling tide. You’ll be grateful for the ways of the wild and the tick of nature’s clock that’s inducing another peaceful night’s slumber. Tomorrow has as much of what today brought to you and yours at Oblivion. And given its inherent relationship with the prevailing nature, you can anticipate even more.
What we love!
- Spending time on the pool deck, enjoying long meals and watching the oceanic wildlife, the birds and the light travel through the day. Whether you’re in the swimming pool or simply lazing on the loungers there’s so much to take in as you connect with the surroundings.
- Being off-the-grid with its solar panel system and unique wood-burning stove that heats the water and circulates to heat two radiators in the home. Rather than using electrical or gas heaters it perfectly tempers the entire house.
- The bespoke furnishings and design layout of the home – in keeping with the stringent building requirements and honouring the footprint – it’s as if the home is an integral part of the landscape.
What you need to know…
- The property rests just outside of George, off the Victoria Bay Road. Access to the nature reserve is a mini adventure along a jeep track – that can be navigated by small vehicles – but you are required to drive a a winding dirt road that’s not the easiest to travel along.
- The house manager, Warren, is always on hand and ready to assist with your daily needs. He knows the area and the property incredibly well so can advise on all of your activities as well as arranging massages and private hiking trails upon request.
- Ballots Bay is lovely for swimming, immediately next to Victoria Bay. Walk down from the property and you can watch the surfers. Kayaking in the Kaaimans River. The Outeniqua Mountains are also nearby.
- Cleopatra’s tidal pools is located just below the property – about a 15-minute walk down and a 20-minute walk up – depending on your stamina.
- The property is protected by Cape Nature.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie