On the banks of the Duiwenshok River on the southern coast of South Africa, lies a sleepy little hamlet called Vermaaklikheid. Loosely translated from the Afrikaans to mean ‘enjoyment’, ‘entertainment’ or ‘recreation,’ it is a perfectly fitting name for such a wildly beautiful spot, seemingly untouched by the hand of time.
About three and a half hours drive away from the hustle and bustle of the city of Cape Town, ’Hill House’ is a rustic thatched Cape Cottage that invites its guests to delight in a restful escape from the pressures of modern living in a truly magnificent mileu. The natural surroundings are home to over one hundred species of birds and a seemingly infinite variety of indigenous fynbos plants, providing endless pleasures to be enjoyed by nature enthusiasts of all ages. The interior of the cottage is warm and welcoming, simply decorated with vintage treasures lovingly collected by the home’s owners over years of scouring local shops and markets. The little hideaway looks out directly over a stretch of serene river with its very own private slipway and jetty. Early risers can spend their morning hours cycling along one of the many neighbouring mountain routes or fishing in the deep blue of the river. The open, outdoor fire-place provides the perfect spot to indulge in the day’s spoils. While away the daylight hours on the deck, reclining on the daybed or being lulled into an afternoon nap in the hammock. Fresh bread or pizzas can be leisurely prepared in the pizza oven after working up an appetite from a walk along the local stretch of beach.
This getaway spot is made for the relishing of life’s most simple pleasures far from the rush of the city. The remote, tranquil home is a haven for quality time spent with loved ones in the most beautiful of quinessential South African settings. It’s the perfect retreat in which to rejuvenate and reconnect.