Set high above a 2000-year-old forest of ancient milkwood trees on the slopes of Chapman’s Peak, Southern Peninsula, this seven-bedroomed, thatched hideaway commands a mesmerising view across the world-famous sweep of Noordhoek beach, all the way to Kommetjie lighthouse in the far distance.
There’s no doubt that a stay at Sefarina, meaning ‘West Wind’, will feel somewhat otherworldly, mainly because of the unexpected juxtaposition of the deeply shaded milkwood forest below that gives way to its commanding location on the fynbos-clad hillside soaring above it. In summer, semi-tropical undergrowth thrives in the welcome coolth of the tree canopy, which is alive with birdlife. Emerging through the treetops as the road winds its way up to Sefarina’s gates, the highest private home on the edge of Monkey Valley estate, it’s no wonder that after 20 years of coming here, it is still ‘a view that literally takes our breath away every time we arrive,’ say the owners. But the family connection to this estate goes back even further, when Noordhoek was a somewhat remote village 35 years ago and mostly dotted with smallholdings, stables and paddocks, with a few beach houses on the dunes. Today, it has thankfully retained this charm and riding along this unspoilt beach on horseback remains one of the most exhilarating experiences.
But it is Sefarina’s rare combination of being so close to the mountain and the beach that makes a stay here so unique – made all the more attractive by the fact that guests can now access a path that crosses the adjoining National Park, leading directly down to the sandy shores. Even so, many guests find it hard to leave this lofty perch with its inviting pool and entertaining deck commanding 360-degree views. Private decks also lead off all six sea-facing bedrooms, where quiet moments with a cup of coffee at dawn are a magical start to the day, as sunbirds and boubou shrikes bob from bush to bush. Noordhoek’s legendary sunsets and long summer evenings are equally memorable here: as the heat of the day softens, avid surfers and horse riders slowly drift home while the unmistakable scent of fynbos and milkwood fills the air, along with the sound of owls on the move… and if you’re lucky enough you might just spot a mountain caracal during your stay. After a day spent on the beach or exploring the south peninsula, there’s no better place to enjoy a braai or meal together, whether it’s outdoors in the protected dining area above the pool or inside around a roaring fire.
Retreat to your cosy bedroom, each one individually decorated and with a newly renovated bathroom. Our favourite bath-with-a-view is in the spacious Borasco suite upstairs, named after the Mediterranean wind, but a hot contender is the Tuuli suite (beautifully gentle Finnish word for wind) that enjoys shafts of glorious afternoon sunlight with beautiful views of the mountain through its arched windows under the thatch. But whichever suite you choose, Sefarina is a cosy and happy gathering place for friends and family, particularly if you enjoy being close to nature.
What we love!
• That Noordhoek’s 8km-long sandy beach remains unspoilt, with dolphins often sighted here (seasonal whales from May to November), yet it’s only 25 minutes’ drive to the city via Chapman’s Peak.
• That each bedroom has its own Nespresso machine, so you sip your coffee (or tea) on your deck when you wake without disturbing anyone.
• Laundry is done (extra cost) by a superb housekeeping team residing on the property full-time.
• That there are some excellent restaurants and a microbrewery at the entrance to Monkey Valley, on the road to the beach: Aegir serves excellent beers and relaxed food (book a seat on the deck with a view of the sea), Furney’s Wine Bar offers a boutique selection of the Cape’s best wines, and Limoncello is always festive.
• Noordhoek Farm Village is also known for the Food Barn with its well-stocked deli, and live music at Café Roux. And don’t miss Kirsten’s Kick Ass Ice Cream and a number of good shops.
• Cape Point Vineyards is superb for wine tastings and does picnics and hosts a community market in summer. Views are spectacular from its restaurant.
• Sefarina has a rare and wonderful thing for a South African home… central heating throughout! This makes it a fabulous winter hideaway, particularly as there’s also a big fireplace in both the lounge and dining area, ensuring the ambience is as toasty as can be!
What you need to know ….
• Sefarina is on private property, but with driveway access through Monkey Valley.
• Guests are able to access the path downhill to the beach directly via the boardwalk across the National Park, but the last part is relatively steep.
• The kitchen, leading off a spacious dining room, is compact. However, opens out onto a dining deck and summers are often spent here around the gas braai.
• Sefarina has exclusive access via electric gates and is very secure with CCTV.
• The house is off-grid with an inverter and 8-hour lithium battery back-up, ensuring continuous Wi-Fi and power during outages.
• Every bedroom has DSTV and a separate decoder.
Reviewed by Michelle Snaddon