Artist’s Chalk
The Southern Peninsula specialises in exceeding expectations, with Kalk Bay delivering in terms of charm and authenticity and The Rafters bringing the final chef’s kiss in wit and whimsy.
Who isn’t over those pretentiously minimalist, pale-palated Southern Peninsula villas, where it’s de rigueur to eat only neutral hued food and where parents are advised to roll their children in cling-wrap and seal both ends.
Welcome to the casual cool of a holiday house where wooden floors welcome sandy feet. Because this beach house is well-known South African artist Beezy Bailey’s holiday retreat and the relaxed atmosphere is testament to the family’s love of the place.
Master and Maker
In the spacious lounge, windows flung open wide and jewel-coloured, silk curtains billow. Beezy’s Chinese gangster cushions glower from the couch – a spark of personality from the artist himself whose signature textiles cover much of the comfortable furniture throughout. Above, beautiful yellow wood rafters (from which the house gets its name) form a unique tower, whilst below eclectic artwork covers the walls. The cheery, open-plan dining area leads to the kitchen where fragrant lavender hangs over an island of funky glassware.
Wandering deeper into the house you’ll find a sunny room with the requisite over-stuffed seating options, ideal for lounging with a cold beer and one eye on the Test Match. Alternatively you can do exactly that from the jacuzzi if you simply roll the telly out of the French doors! Summer scents linger and an inviting turquoise pool glints under a hot sun. the generous bleached deck begs for long family brunches or evening BBQ’s (there is even an outdoor pizza oven) and stretches to a rambling Mediterranean garden, nudged by a mountain backdrop.
The upstairs houses most of the bedrooms… and a peek into each reveals more delightful textiles, colourful crystal chandeliers, and all manner of whimsy and quirk. Offset with large balconies, each with sprawling views and a front row seat to any whale watching action in False Bay.
What we love!
Sheltered from the wind, the house gets the sunlight much longer than the rest of Kalk Bay and is hidden from the road, giving it a secure, private feel and a rest from any traffic noise. There is also a garage to park your car off-road.
What you need to know…
- The Rafters is only a 30 mins drive from Cape Town city centre and about 40 mins from the airport along the beautiful coastal road.Â
- It’s only a hop-skip-and-a-jump from wonderfully kooky Kalk Bay and its mix of craft shops, art galleries, beach bars and one of the most famed breakfasts in Cape Town at the Olympia Cafe.
- During whale season from June to November, it’s possible to spot migrating Humpback, Southern Right, and Bryde’s whales rounding Cape Point. These gentle giants can also be spotted from elevated coastal vantage points like Boyes Drive, Chapmans Peak, and Clarens Drive. For an up close and personal experience, boat trips are available from Simon’s Town harbour
- The Southern Peninsula plays host to numerous characterful hamlets, from the quirky Kalk Bay to the surfing haven of Muizenburg. Your daily exploration options are endless,
- If The Rafters is not available on your dates, browse our full collection of exclusive-use holiday houses in the Southern Peninsula.