Albertyn Huis – Over a white garden wall and a thick bank of indigenous greenery, Kleinmond beach presents itself as a giant sickle shape of deep blue sea edged with shreds of a white lace wave line. It is a glorious view and must have been the deciding factor for the positioning of the cottage – the first in the area – in the 1860s. Much of the authenticity of the original cottage remains, with deep window ledges revealing the width of the walls that naturally insulate the interior from summer heat or the cooler months from June to September. A break here offers the wonderful simplicity of a real beach holiday. Sand that may not have washed off entirely in the outdoor shower will fall on either slate, terracotta or sturdy wooden boards, all practical surfaces that invite a barefoot break.
Albertyn Huis offers ample space and different areas for a group of family and friends to converge. While a large Oregon pine dining table dominates the kitchen area, a boma area with a fire pit and braai, through double doors to a sheltered courtyard, is where summer evenings are likely to play out. There is a second dining table on the sea-facing veranda. It is a clever arrangement. At any time of the day and in any wind conditions, there is shelter and sun, a slatted reed roof breaking the strong light on the front veranda. It is both a simple and sophisticated house, unfussy yet comfortable, welcoming and practical. White crockery and kitchen basics are arranged on suspended shelves and for holiday cooks, this means being part of the conversation that may rally between the kitchen, the boma area and the adjacent living room where extra deep sofas invite a sprawl rather than provide formal seating.
You will also sleep well here. The thatched roof filters the sound of the sea but it will be there on the edge of your dreams, white sound to lull you into a restful night.
Sleeps 6 adults plus 2 kids in main house & 4 adults in the cottage
What we love!
- The Kleinmond area is part of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve and there are fabulous walks and hikes in the area. The famous wild horses are often seen in the reeds beyond the lagoon edge.
- While the village of Kleinmond is a few minutes away on foot, the position of the house offers complete privacy and quiet.
- There are a couple of two-seater canoes which guests may use on the lagoon which is a stone’s throw from the house.
What you need to know…
- Parking is available outside in a shady spot under the trees. There is no formal garaging.
- Please note there is no TV at Albertyn House. (This is due to the owners preferring to live life more simply whilst on holiday).
- Sadly Kleinmond is one of several Western Cape coastal towns where opportunistic crime is a problem. The house has excellent security measures and it is important guests implement these.
- There are 3 bedrooms and then a large, open-plan loft space with twin beds. No privacy so only suitable for kids.
- There is a 2 bedroom cottage which is also available to book if your party is larger.
Reviewed by Les Aupaias