There comes a time when we all just need a little break. A break from the daily grind of work and routine, a break from the hustle and bustle of busy city living; a chance to catch your breath, relax, breathe and just be. All too often, we are so “busy” on the hamster wheel of life that we don’t realise just how much our body, mind and soul craves a tranquil retreat to relax and recharge.

Of late, I’ve been feeling a strong need to slow down and to live a more conscious and mindful existence. When the opportunity to stay at Avani Lodge Private Nature Reserve came along, I eagerly grabbed it with both hands. It happened to be the final hurrah of a month-long 20^th wedding anniversary celebration towards the end of 2019. Hubby and I were more than keen to head for the hills and surround ourselves with the soothing sights and sounds of nature.

Taking the scenic route from Cape Town over Sir Lowry’s Pass, the 90-minute drive passes by the Overberg village of Grabouw and the lush Elgin Valley. Heading towards Bot Rivier, we hooked a right at the turning towards Gabrielskloof Wine Estate. As eager as I was to visit them for the first time, we were keener to get to Avani as soon as possible. Besides, I knew we would stop there on our way home anyway. 😉

Our city car easily managed the well-maintained gravel road that led us further and further away from civilisation and closer to nirvana. We somehow managed to get lost while on Avani’s property after taking a wrong turn to our rondavel (chalet), but soon found our home away from home for the next two nights. Ewald Groenewalt, the owner of Avani, and his friendly dog Zoe gave us a lovely welcome and made us feel right at home.

THE ACCOMMODATION – HEN OF THE WOODS

While I enjoy staying at luxury hotels, boutique lodges and guesthouses, it’s lovely to change things up now and then with a self-catering getaway. The eco-friendly units are predominantly thatched straw bale and cob rondavels (a traditional circular African dwelling with a conical thatched roof) and accommodate two guests.

• 

• 

Named after a different type of mushroom, there are a total of four similar units – Oyster, Pine Ring, Hen of the Woods and Magic. While they are equally charming and rustic, I feel that Hen of the Woods is the best in terms of offering the most privacy and, in my opinion, the most stunning views. Two additional units are being built, one of which will accommodate children and pets.

Our unit was delightfully cosy and inviting and as usual, I packed far too much clothing! I practically lived in my bikini, sometimes adding a sarong when the evenings became slightly cooler. The open plan living area is spacious and has a large comfy bed with luxurious linen, a closet to store your clothes and bags, a kitchenette with tea and coffee making facilities and basin.

• 

• 

The bathroom is partially private with a stone wall separating it from the bedroom area and includes bath and pool towels. The ultimate highlight? The rustic glass-enclosed outdoor shower! Overlooking the tall pine trees, surrounding mountains and two rondavels, dare to bare it all!

The partially enclosed outdoor area was the perfect place to take in the views and was completely sheltered from the wind. It has an undercover braai area with a table and chairs, two comfy seats with soft cushions, a small fridge, microwave and shelf with a basin for washing dishes. Cutlery and crockery are included, so all you need to bring along are your food and drinks. The complimentary rusks, olives and red wine are a lovely personal touch. Ewald produces the wine and I thoroughly enjoyed sipping on the Shiraz one evening.

The peaceful indoor/outdoor space is the perfect place to take a breather. Picture yourself with a glass of wine in hand, chatting with your loved one, listening to the delightful sounds of birds chirping, reading a book or enjoying the crackle of a roaring fire while relaxing in your own private hot tub! This is another unique and utterly fabulous feature of each unit at Avani – your own private wood-burning hot tub where you can soak away all your troubles and truly unwind. It doubles as a cool pool during the hot summer months. They supply ample wood for both the fireplace/braai and hot tub.

• 

• 

The idyllic and romantic setting is simply heavenly, so we spent much of our time chilling in the tub. We didn’t even go for a hike or nature walk as intended. I’m saving that for next time. A wide variety of fynbos can be found a few steps away from the unit and around the property, along with towering pine trees and uninterrupted mountain views. Don’t expect to find Wi-Fi or TVs here. Total relaxation is encouraged at Avani and it is an ideal spot to get away from technology and people. Relish the digital detox while you can.

• 

• 

• 

TO DO OR NOT TO DO, THAT IS THE QUESTION!

The beauty of staying at Avani is that you can do as little or as much as you want. Banish the traditional clock for a few days. Wake up when you want, eat when you want – slow living at its best!

We took a short stroll to the pool area after unpacking. I just couldn’t resist jumping into the crystal-clear water to cool down. It was a hot day and while we had hoped to escape the maddening South Easter winds in Cape Town, the strong breeze was most welcome. You’ll find a larger communal kitchen and barbeque facilities near the pool area. This is ideal if you’re staying with a group of friends and want a larger space to enjoy meals together, swim or watch the setting sun.

• 

There are plenty of activities to enjoy on-site and the surrounding area. Avani is a serene paradise and is just waiting for you to explore its natural beauty; a haven for nature lovers, hikers, birders, cyclists, readers, writers, naturists and photographers.

Avid stargazers will take great delight when clear nights allow for dazzling displays of infinite stars and planets, including spectacular views of the Milky Way.

• 

Wine lovers can pop in for a tasting and lunch at Gabrielskloof Wine Estate located nearby, while the world-renowned Hemel-En-Aarde and Elgin Valley wine routes are only a short drive away. For more ideas about what else there is to see and do in the area, click here.

• 

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

1. There is no convenience store on-site or nearby, so make sure to bring all your food, drinks, loads of ice and plenty of petrol in the tank.
2. The tap water is safe to drink. However, feel free to bring your own if you like.
3. Towels, linen, cutlery and crockery are provided, along with an ample supply of wood for the hot tub and braai (barbeque).
4. There were no bedroom curtains in our unit. Bring a pair of eyeshades if you aren’t an early riser and prefer a lie-in.
5. The small fridge may not fit in all your food and drinks. There is a large fridge in the communal kitchen should you need more space.
6. Bring sunscreen, bathing suits, hats and sturdy walking shoes should you wish to hike.
7. Bring binoculars and telescopes if you’re a keen birder or astronomer.

The magical and peaceful setting is perfect for those wishing to escape the rat race for a few days. We stayed for two nights, but I would recommend at least three nights. The silence and serenity provide pure bliss for the body, mind and soul. I honestly cannot wait to return!

Show Avani Lodge some love by following them on their social media channels:

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

For more information and bookings, go to their website www.avanilodge.com

If you enjoyed reading this article, please let me know in the comment section below. You can also hit the Like button and share it with your family and friends on Facebook and Twitter. Let’s connect on Instagram too.

Want to read more about my travel, food and wine adventures? Head on over to my website and subscribe for new blog posts and updates (no spamming, I promise).

Yours in Travel and Slow Living
xoxo

Disclaimer – I was #hosted by Avani Lodge Private Nature Reserve. All views and images are my own unless stated otherwise.