One of the wonderful things about getting away from your own, familiar surroundings and venturing off on a little break away, is the notion of arriving somewhere completely new. Somewhere that’s as inviting as it is inspiring. Somewhere that permits you to be exactly as you are, but better. Much like when your effortlessly stylish friend – we all have them – the one who has that enviable wardrobe – offers you the amazing dress you always marvel at, to wear at the next party. You put it on and glide into the crowd with a stride that’s your own, accompanied by a swagger that’s on loan. The same can be said about checking-in to someone else’s holiday home for a weekend getaway. Cooking a simple family meal becomes a Blumenthal banquet inspired by all of the exciting new kitchen appliances. Playing cards around a crackling fire becomes something of a novice pastime. Long, afternoon naps and taking baths actually occur. Whether you’re wearing your own clothes or not, your holiday banter is brought on by someone else’s board games.
And that’s exactly what the owners of Greyton Country House entice you to do – arrive at their gorgeous Greyton hideaway, and make yourselves completely at home for your best holiday self to loosen-up and unravel. Tucked away down a quiet country lane, this stylish house sits on two levels, beneath the tall oaks. Its large living space invites you in, through the slide-and-fold glass doors, to the vast, open living space. The kitchen, with its quartz countertop, sits at one end, overlooking the long dining table, which meets the warmth of the wood-burning stove and the comfy sofas surrounding it. Chunky poplar beams join the a-framed exposed ceiling above, adding to the airy ambience. Four spacious bedrooms dart off downstairs, upstairs, and all the way up to the loft. Mountain views can be enjoyed from the main king bed, while the oaks can be watched in the breeze from the upstairs bathtub – as if you’re in some secret, secluded treehouse.
Out on the front stoep, where the grill has been lit for evening feasting and idyllic farm-style living, friendly residents occasionally pass by as they wander down the lane. A gentle nod and wave over the wall, as they stroll or pedal their bikes onwards. Free roaming horses, ponies and cows often cruise down, stopping intermittently to graze. Then ponder on to the flowing rivers at the bottom of the road. The charm of the community, the enchanting nature walks, and the laid-back soul of the village it inhabits, makes (Greyton House) a truly special destination to take yourself on holiday.
What we love!
- The exquisite little town of Greyton is only a 10-minute walk away from the house.
- Nature trails for mountain biking and scenic hikes start at the bottom of the lane where the river flows. For the more adventurous routes, the mountain range above the town has a number of challenging trails with breath-taking views.
- The famous Saturday market where the kids can take pony rides or paint their faces, while the art, the coffee, the craft beer and fresh berry cocktails entertain the others.
- Stunning artwork from local artists, craftsmen and carpenters are incorporated into the house.
What you need to know…
- Whatever the time of year, Greyton is always a wonderful place to visit as it suits every season, and unlike other places in the Western Cape, it is wind-free!
- For those Saturday brunches when you don’t feel like cooking, visit Heart & Soul – a vegetarian café that dishes up a harvest table from a quirky, renovated garage to your picnic blanket on the lawn.
- When in need of a perfectly poured cup of coffee, go on a hunt through the town for Soa, who’s cruising around with her coffee trailer, mastering the art of a mobile barista.
- The Hub & Spoke Café is a fun meeting ground for all of the active cycling enthusiasts, local or not, to gather and feast on some good, healthy, seasonal flavours.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie