Dating back to the early 1920’s, prominently holding her presence on the meandering cliff paths of Hermanus for over a century, Kwaaiwater House acts as a sentinel to all those who pass her by. As if to mark the gradual evolution of the old fisherman’s village, over the decades. Where seaside dwellings, scattered along the edge of the verdant Fernkloof Nature Reserve, teetering above the boundless, wild ocean, have been revamped and refashioned over time, into the contemporary architectural progeny of the town. Not Kwaaiwater House. She gracefully holds her ground, defying age and change, nurturing nostalgia as she beckons you in to a time long, long ago, that’s still alive and thriving today, in the beautiful town of Hermanus.
Set on two grand levels of lavish living rooms, a stunning dining room, a cozy library and study, a farm-style country kitchen, six spacious bedrooms – four of which are ensuite – an enclosed verandah and upstairs family room with a little kitchenette, long corridors leading to quiet reading nooks – all dressed up in an eclectic blend of antique and modern attire – this hideaway embraces you in its arms like a beloved grandmother would. Earnestly welcoming you in to her space and promptly letting you run free with the views of the ocean that unravel before you. The burgeoning fynbos shrub and tranquil gardens escort you around the hydrangeas and lazy loungers beside the swimming pool. A convenient ‘getaway room’ sits adjacent to the pool with a games room for the kids, a bridge table for all card enthusiasts, a chess board, more books and puzzles, and a little kitchenette with a separate bar fridge. Perfect for those long days spent beside the pool with all of your favourite people.
When you’re not snoozing in the garden or on the verandah, dipping in and out of the pool or huddled around the games table, the beaches below beckon. You’ll take to the footpaths after an early morning brew on the patio, head down to one of the secret coves or tepid rock pools for the morning. Back for a hearty brunch around the kitchen table or out through the tall French doors that lead to the pool where another long dining table sits. A quick rinse off of the salt under the outdoor shower beside the pool. Some might like to venture onto the mountain trails for a hike or the golf course for nine holes. Others might opt for another mission to the beach. There are so many spots to choose from, you’ll be beach crawling through your days. Evenings will be spent around the braais or fireplace, listening to the waves curl below. Early to bed, early to rise with the resident swallows, who nest every summer in the eaves of the grand dame’s roof. You’ll watch them come and go with the breeze, just as Kwaaiwater House has done with the passers-by on the footpaths, over the decades. Acknowledging the transience of time and the virtue in savouring every second, with the little things and the people you love most.
What we love!
- Spending hours watching the whales and all of the other oceanic wildlife from bathtubs, beds, loungers and kitchen tables. Kwaaiwater House is situated at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac; completely serene and secluded from any neighbours on the east, west and south sides of the property. There is a little private walkway that leads you down directly onto the breathtaking 13 km Hermanus cliff path.
- Hermanus is considered to have a “champagne climate” – where there is more oxygen in the air than anywhere else. A place where one learns to breathe again.
- Kwaaiwater House – a Heritage building – has been in its existing family for almost three decades. The home is furnished with family heirlooms and antique collectables. Every piece of art, furniture and ornament holds a special meaning in the history of the home and tells a thousand stories.
What you need to know…
- There is a double lock-up garage on the property. From Monday to Friday the wonderful Similo is on hand to assist. The property is well-secured with alarms and beams and has an inverter system should the local electricity supply turn itself off, as it tends to do.
- Walking the cliff paths will become a daily ritual with the family. There is a beach to the left of the property which is lovely for collecting shells or head down a rocky pathway to a hidden cove where you can play boule on the sand. Voëlklip and Nanny’s Beach are only a 10-minute walk from the property.
- Lizette’s at the circle is a great place to go for a light tapas lunch with its lovely atmosphere, or just simply grab some yummy things from one of the many local delis.
- 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 Klein River. 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.
- Fernkloof Nature Reserve is an absolute must for all hiking enthusiasts wanting to explore the lesser beaten tracks in nature. Especially for winter walks.
- There’s also a golf course around the corner that’s set in the most beautiful landscape. Great for an easy amble, should you rather just walk if you don’t know your irons from your woods.
Reviewed by Colleen Ogilvie