A Southern Peninsula seaside escape with the African penguin colonies
A heritage home settled upon the tepid shores of Simon’s Town, Boulders House beckons you in to a timeless, characterful residence, where a blissful beach life exists.
Built in the 1890’s for the admiral of the British Navy, this hideaway has endured the changing tides of time, and retains her dignified stance above the shoreline of Boulders beach, with integrity. Her bones being the construct of the great Sir Herbert Baker, Boulders House reveals a compelling story about the ways lives were lived beside the sea. Back in the day, when watching the naval activity traverse the great blanket of blue was an hourly occupation. As they’d sail in and out of the harbour, amongst the gulls, the whales, the seals and the fishermen. Over the last few decades, the heritage home has been gently renovated to evolve with the contemporary necessities one requires when abiding by the sea. Harnessing the essence of this magnificent home, yet making room for the light to flood through the front door. Along the long corridors, into the classically-styled living and dining spaces, up and down the staircases, throughout all seven of the bedrooms and its five accompanying bathrooms. Around the reading and resting nooks, above the stove in the country-styled kitchen, and even into the back cupboards of the scullery. It’s as if you’re being held in the warm embrace of an esteemed elderly family member, ensconced in affection, yet feeling invigorated by the ambience of reverence at the same time. A feeling of familial nostalgia, laidback luxury and beachy blissfulness all at once.
There’s an atmosphere to Simon’s Town that’s unique and intriguing. A vintage charm and elegance that’s palpable from the village streets, cafés, convenience stores and old souvenir stores, to the meandering walkways that lead to all of its hidden coves. It’s a hamlet that evokes those childhood holiday memories of dripping ice cream and sandy feet. Salty hair and sun-kissed shoulders. With the scent of the oceanic wildlife and sounds of the birdlife wafting from the harbour, where South Africa’s largest naval base is stationed. There’s an undeniable affection for its community of residents and seasonal seaside dwellers, that actively conserve the nobility of this little town, its attractions and its landscape.
Explore the Cape’s great peninsula from the comfort of your own regal beach residence
Having direct access down to the wooden walkway that leads onto Boulders Beach you’ll saunter to the water’s edge, most mornings, with the sun rising in sync with your holiday stride. A meditative dip in the slightly warmer waves of the Atlantic. Accompanied by the penguins, the sea gulls and a few of your crew. Others might prefer a lap or two in the swimming pool, a slow wake-up with a hot brew on the front stoep, or on the lawn stretching it out with the morning’s rays. A slow brunch around the tables followed by a hike into the mountains. Or more swimming. Card games with an afternoon tipple or two in shade of the garden. An early evening feasting from the braai or out of the kitchen where you’ll savour the treats sourced from the town. Whether you’ve been out gallivanting the neighbouring coastal spots or simply soaking up the sublime sunshine, taking in the endless views and rekindling those bonds with your chosen clan, it’ll be some of the best beachy days of your lives. Reminiscent of those times spent with that esteemed elderly family member. Cradled in the bosom of belonging.
What we love!
- For those seeking a perfect beach escape, the location of this property could not be better. The views are spectacular, the morning dips in the ocean are the easiest to navigate (by foot and mind!), and the access to a charming town with all of the essentials make Boulders House top of the seaside pops.
- Spending time together in the lovely conservatory, that’s sheltered from the wind, should it pick up – though this property is well-protected from the elements. A wonderful vantage point to really take in the views and changing ocean moods.
- The classically styled interiors – in keeping with the history of the build, all of the spaces are furnished with an age-old romance in mind. Where family heirlooms and antique collectables share a family’s memoir. Of many a holiday spent beside Boulders Beach.
- Reclining in the free-standing bathtubs, or cosy reading nooks. Relaxing on the verandah, watching the yachts, ships and little boats sail out to sea.
What you need to know…
- Simon’s Town is an hour’s drive from the centre of Cape Town, yet it feels like a remote, secluded seaside haven. You will have access to all of the convenience stores of the town or neighbouring village that’s less than a 15-minute drive away.
- Boulders Beach is less than a minute’s walk from the house. One of Cape Town’s most cherished beaches where you can get up close and personal with the African penguin colonies.
- For those meals around the table when you don’t feel like cooking, head to the Seaforth Restaurant at the wharf for some takeaway fish and chips and dish it up on the lawn or the long verandah.
- If Boulders House is not available on your dates, browse our full collection of exclusive-use holiday houses in Simon’s Town.
