Oceanic bliss
Heaven on Earth in the seaside town of Hermanus, rests upon the cliff paths like an elegant, contemporary custodian of the coves, watching over the Atlantic’s waves.
There’s nothing like the sound of the ocean, wafting through the open doors and windows of your monumental ensuite bedroom, as you drift in and out of a dream. Like the seagulls are doing with the morning breeze. A gentle stirring of nature’s conversation, waking you up from your slumber. Time to head down the winding staircase, escorted by the ocean as you tip toe every step. Out onto the front deck and into the water. It’s just you and the whales, the dolphins, the sun’s rays and the scent of summer. Bobbing about in the swimming pool that merges with the horizon of blue. One more lap before coffee. Before the days begin at Heaven on Earth. Before your Hermanus holiday clan wake up and turn the placid, warm waters into rapids. Where the shrills and shrieks of a seaside escape ensue. There’s quite simply nothing like that ocean sound, the scent that accompanies it and those never-ending views.Â
Settled upon the meandering cliffs of the old fishing village of Hermanus, this magnificent hideaway is the ideal spot for multigenerational family beach getaways. With its endless views of the ocean, the mountains in the distance and the Fernkloof Nature Reserve behind, the landscape will be the most treasured companion of the trip. Three voluminous levels of living, dining, entertaining, gaming, reclining, cooking, cocktailing and whale watching areas have been beautifully stitched together by the esteemed interior architect, Clinton Savage. With the owner’s stamp emblazoned across every layer of luxury that endorse the property’s name. As a large clan, you’ll spend most of your time on the deck, in and out of the pool and the jacuzzi. Gathered around the braai area or the 12-seater kitchen table. Always snacking and playing games. When the weather changes, the beautiful fireplace will be lit, flickering in sync with the rain dripping down the double window panes. Plenty of blankets to go around as the family banter warms the cockles of your hearts. For those that might like a bit of solitude, the quiet nook at the top of the staircase is the perfect spot to dive into a holiday novel, occasionally glancing up to witness the ocean wildlife drift by. Then off onto the Eastcliff paths for some secret cove hunting and tidal pool dipping. A trip to the farmer’s market for some sourcing and feasting. Some might like an afternoon adventure in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve. Golf, mountain biking and hiking, boat trips, wine tasting and of course plenty of beach action. The Overberg has it all.Â
Babylonian beach days
Of all the things that this sublime seaside village has to offer, it’s the family-bonding experiences that rest at the helm of every moment. As it has been for the owners of Heaven on Earth who have ardently furnished this beach home with their memories for many a generation. Recently renovated entirely – to ensure their lavish needs are tended to, the air and light of the landscape is as much a part of each space as the family heirlooms and artwork – this contemporary villa earnestly shares its old soul with you. Around every table, from every sofa and sun lounger, bathtub and cavernous bed. With every sunrise and moon dance across the water.
What we love!
- Enjoying an evening tipple with the whole clan on the deck. In an around the pool, as the sunsets mark their colours across the landscape.Â
- Every room in the house delivers magnificent views of the ocean or the mountains. Its double-volume windows and doors ensure nature’s narrative is the main topic of the holiday chat, all around the clock, whatever the weather.
- Though there are a number of great activities to get involved in and wilderness to explore in an around Hermanus, you’ll find it difficult to leave the property. Its spatial living and entertaining areas set over 3 levels allow for endless hours of feasting and games, restful reading and bonding with the clan.
- Whatever the time of day – from early mornings to late nights – the views are spectacular. Â
What you need to know…
- Fernkloof Nature Reserve is an absolute must for all hiking enthusiasts wanting to explore the lesser beaten tracks in nature. Especially for winter walks.
- The Stanford Valley is a twenty-minute drive away for a full day out. Activities include picnics under the Stanford Manor trees, beside the dam. Sunset cruises on the River Klein. Cheese, beer and wine tasting. Antique shopping in the historic village of Stanford.
- Hermanus Farmer’s Market every Saturday for all things art, craft, food, music, fun and frolics.
- Lizette’s at the circle is a great place to go for a light tapas lunch with its lovely atmosphere, or to just simply grab some yummy things from the deli.
- There’s also a golf course just around the corner that’s set in the most beautiful landscape for a lovely afternoon walk and the odd pitch onto the green.
- If Heaven on Earth is not available on your dates, browse our full collection of exclusive-use holiday houses in Hermanus.Â
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie