One of the many things I love about living in Cape Town (the list is long!), is that we have so many gorgeous getaway spots nearby. Whether you’re looking for a romantic hideaway for two at a cozy guesthouse or five star boutique hotel, getting your glamping on with a bunch of friends or a fun family weekend on a working farm, all this and more is easily accessible within one or two hours’ drive from the Mother City.
We recently discovered a stunning gem of a place in Gordon’s Bay. Ha! Bet you didn’t think I was going to say Gordon’s Bay, did you? Many people pass through this harbour village and take a leisurely ride along scenic Clarence Drive while on their way to other coastal towns.
But don’t be in a hurry to overlook Gordon’s Bay. Located about an hour’s drive from the city, this picturesque seaside village is flanked by the Hottentots Holland Mountains with breathtaking views of the Helderberg Mountains and False Bay. You may think that this lovely spot is purely a summer destination, but it is very much open for winter.
We found this out for ourselves when we stayed for a weekend in early June at the idyllic and luxurious On The Bay Retreat. Our kid’s first exams were due to start the following week, so we took advantage of getting away before the craziness began.
It consists of two beautiful residences, one being the Seaside Flat, which is suitable for two adults. A camping cot can be arranged for one baby. The other residence is the Main House where we stayed. Words and photographs cannot accurately describe the sheer beauty and bliss of spending a few nights in this beach-side haven, but I will do my best 😉
From the moment we stepped inside and were shown around by Francis, the caretaker (Mackenzie, the bubbly and friendly owner, was away on an overseas trip at the time); we were embraced by instant relaxation and serenity. The newly renovated, light, bright and sunny three bedroom house just has that magical effect. I found my beach house goals right there in that beautiful and calming space! Think African beach house chic with quirky touches; I couldn’t help but ooh and aah as I explored each room. Many of the lovely photos on display were taken by Mackenzie during her global travels.
On The Bay has all the mod cons you could possibly need for the perfect self-catering holiday. Just bring along your food and drinks and that’s it. Everything else that you need is right there. If you run out of supplies, there are a few shops and mini malls nearby where you can stock up.
There is certainly no shortage of breathtaking views from the house. The spacious open plan living space offers glorious views of False Bay, right from the state-of-the-art kitchen through to the private patio barbeque area. The two loft areas also have spectacular views of False Bay and the majestic Helderberg Mountains. The main loft area soon became my fave spot. Climb the ladder (it’s like being a kid again) where you’ll find two comfy Lazy Boy recliners with warm throws, a small table for drinks and the BEST ocean and mountain views. Trust me; it’s pretty tough to tear yourself away from that wondrous sight.
The back loft is used as a study, but can also be used as a sleeping area, comfortably fitting a fold-out couch. The Master Bedroom is a dream come true. Well, for me anyway! It features an uber comfortable king size bed and wait for it … your very own private walk-in dressing room with wardrobes! The luxurious bathroom has a very spacious shower and bathtub.
I was pleased to note that On The Bay is addressing the current drought crisis we face in the Western Cape and informing their guests on how they can help to save water. There are signs in the bathrooms and kitchen showing how to use 50 litres or less per day, buckets in each shower to catch water while you shower, as well as no bath plugs in the tub.
The second and third bedrooms each have a comfortable queen size bed and built-in wardrobes, and share the second bathroom with their own entry doors. Our son was ecstatic to find that his bedroom had a 40-inch Samsung Smart TV with Netflix. All the bedrooms are fitted with these TVs. Wi-Fi is also available throughout the house and is fast and reliable.
The warm and welcoming living room has a 55-inch Samsung Smart TV, along with two comfortable couches, a large coffee table (perfect for playing board games) and our son’s favourite was the huge bean bag, perfect to laze on while watching TV. The large dining table is perfect for large dinner parties. Click here for more info on all the amenities that On The Bay offers.
I always appreciate personal touches, so it was lovely to discover a handwritten note from Mackenzie with some info on the house and the area. She was also very kind to leave a chilled bottle of wine in the fridge for us to enjoy – yes please!
We decided to stay in that evening and just enjoy the tranquility and setting sun. As we weren’t in the mood for cooking on our first night, I sent hubby to get some lekker (means cool) traditional fish and chips from Ooskus Fisheries, a popular local takeaway joint. They boast that they have the very best fish and chips in the bay. I’m don’t know how true that may be, but it was very tasty. A word of caution – their portions are VERY generous. Hubby had no idea that two orders of fish and chips plus a small portion of chips for our son would amount to quite so much food. We could’ve easily shared one order between the two of us.
Even though On The Bay is a short 70m stroll to the beach, you are far enough away to not be disturbed by traffic, especially during the busy summer season. It also means that you can easily walk to some of the local restaurants and watering holes. At night, it is probably best to drive or call for a cab. The Thirsty Oyster and Harbour Lights are both located at the old Harbour (about 800 metres away); while Tallas Tavern and Zest Restaurant and Bistro are right across the road from the beach, each only a 200 metre walk from On The Bay.
The sunset we saw from the patio that evening was breathtaking and signaled the calm before the storm. We awoke to the blissful sound of pouring rain. But this didn’t stop us from venturing out that afternoon. After a leisurely board game of Travel Go, we headed to Mountain Streams Nursery for a light lunch at The Garden Kitchen.
It happened to be International Gin Day that Saturday, so naturally I had to have a gin or two to celebrate 😉
It’s a quaint little eatery that you enter via the nursery. The wood burning fire added much needed warmth from the cold afternoon. Most menu items are reasonably priced, along with the wine list. They serve breakfast all day and both hubby and son opted for the Basic Garden Breakfast, while I ordered the Spinach & Feta Quiche with Salad. The menu includes breakfast favourites such as Omelettes, French Toast, Flapjacks as well as Garden Salads, Tramezzini and a variety of sandwiches. Don’t expect anything fancy, but it is pretty tasty. When our son wasn’t munching away on his breakfast for lunch, he could be seen exploring the pretty nursery.
A picture perfect country scene taken during a break in the rain.
We stopped for a few supplies at one of the local malls and made our way back to On The Bay, where we spent a relaxed and enjoyable afternoon. Read – comfy couch or bed + Netflix + glass of red (for me) = happiness. The weather wasn’t that great, so staying in seemed the best option. It isn’t often that one gets a chance to just relax and do as you please, yet it is exactly what we need sometimes. Creating a meal in the stunning kitchen was such a pleasure. The Butter Curry Chicken went down a treat and paired with a robust red wine, the couch and Netflix, hubby and I enjoyed a cosy evening.
The following morning, we awoke to the beautiful sight of a sunny day, so we took a stroll along the beach and had breakfast at the Spur. Not my choice but our son had asked to go there. It was very busy by the time we arrived but the service was good, as well as the coffee. And it probably has the best location of any Spur we’ve ever been to as it’s only a few steps away from the beach.
Did you know? Gordon’s Bay was originally named “Fish Hoek”, many years before the town of the same name, located on the western side of False Bay, was founded. Evidence of this can be seen on the outside wall of the local Post Office.
There are a few quaint shops lining Beach Road and a must do if you fancy an ice-cream cone or want to browse for second-hand treasures at Bikini Beach Books. One can easily lose yourself in the wonderful world of books for a few hours.
We decided to head back to On The Bay as we didn’t have much time left before we had to leave. After packing up and taking some more photos, not one of us wanted to leave. That is probably the only “issue” you will encounter when staying at this exquisite ocean side retreat. I have been fortunate to stay in many gorgeous places around the world, yet On The Bay has captured my heart unlike any other and I long to return as soon as I can. A two night stay is lovely, but I would suggest a longer stay if possible. It’s the perfect place to go with a group of friends or family, celebrate a special occasion or just relax and enjoy the spectacular surroundings. As their website so aptly says “Guests must leave their troubles at the door and step into a world of luxury and relaxation.” And that is exactly what we did.
With Clarence Drive nearby, we decided to take a drive along this world-famous coastal route before going home. This spectacular 21 kilometre drive that hugs the rugged coastline between the hamlet of Rooi Els and Gordon’s Bay will leave you speechless with its magnificent beauty. There are quite a few stops along the winding route that contains 77 bends, so make sure you stick to the speed limit. And besides, what is the big rush? Take your time at the designated stops to enjoy the sweeping vistas of the mighty ocean and majestic mountains. It is a truly unforgettable experience.
I’ve given you a glimpse of what there is to see and do in Gordon’s Bay, but there is so much more if you’re keen to explore the area. From lush botanical gardens, nature hikes, whale watching and penguins to long beach walks, water-sports, dining on delectable seafood dishes and exploring the Helderberg Wine Route, this often over-looked part of the Western Cape has something to offer everyone. Click the links below for more info on some of the many things there are to see, do and discover in this wonderful part of the Western Cape.
Harold Porter Botanical Gardens
There has never been a better time to support local travel. Book now and enjoy a relaxing beachside getaway with family or friends this summer season!
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Yours in Travel, Food and Wine
xoxo
Please note – I was kindly hosted by On The Bay Retreat. All views and images are my own unless otherwise indicated.
