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“And in about 500 yards the road should take a slight bend to the left,” my father informed us, one cigar-stained finger tracing our route along the map as we topped yet another breathtaking mountain pass. Regardless of where we were going and whether or not I might know the route blindfolded, Dad’s eyes rarely strayed from the A-Z as he took pains to keep us informed of what we might expect around the next corner. Then again, it could well have been his method of self-preservation as he is not used to being chauffeured by his youngest daughter. My mother, sitting in the passenger seat, may have developed a certain tension across the shoulders as Dad resisted her every attempt to persuade him to enjoy the view, but I was also aware of her right foot shooting out occasionally to the imaginary brake pedal in her footwell.
But Cape Town, good old Cape Town, did us proud. How could it not? We drove along the cable car road and up to Signal Hill to see the city bowl spread at our feet. We took trips to Hout Bay and Noordhoek and Simon’s Town. We wandered through Company’s Gardens and did whistle stop tours of the National Museum and the old Town House. We had lunch in pubs, bistros and restaurants, in squares, gardens and on cliff-sides. We explored Kirstenbosch Gardens (at their peak in October), and the centre of town. We went to a grown-up dinner party and a laid-back family braai. We saw penguins, sunbirds, baboons and whales. We drank cocktails while we watched the sun set from a bar in Camps Bay. We tasted wine in Constantia and did a historical tour of Franschhoek. Only once did we actually go away for the night and that was to Hermanus, a two hour drive along a stunning road with an excellent farm stall at the half way point. As Mum climbed out of the car at the Hermanus seafront, she asked the car park attendant where the whales were. Without a hint of irony, the man pointed out into the bay. “There,” he said, and sure enough a Southern Right launched itself out of the water right on cue. 
That afternoon we visited the deliciously extravagant Birkenhead House where we had our socks charmed off by the wonderful staff – more about that in another letter. We had to drag Dad away as he asked for “perhaps a nip of vodka” in his iced tea, and whisked him off to the spacious rural luxury of the Blue Gum Country Estate in Stanford where the house info includes such advice as “occasionally you may see our sons pedalling their bicycles around the estate, usually dressed as Spiderman. Do not be afraid if they approach – they are not dangerous”. Heaven.
Ibis House, Constantia: Set within seven acres of lush private garden, this country house is bordered by forest, wine farms and mountains, and happens to be just a five minute drive from three of Cape Town’s most famous restaurants. It is also close to Constantia Village and in a central position to reach all of the most popular beaches within 15 to 20 minutes. Most of the six en-suite bedrooms lead out onto private balconies or roof terraces with spectacular views across the forest to the mountain peaks beyond. Further accommodation is available in two cottages within the grounds. The 25m pool is a dominating feature of the semi-wild garden from which gates lead directly into the enchanting Tokai forest, which offers wonderful walking trails. POA.
Battersea Villa, Noordhoek: One of the best beach locations on the entire Cape Peninsula, this house is protected from the wind by Chapman’s Peak which soars up behind, and gazes over the whole of Noordhoek beach from its position on the hillside. A terrace with a sunken jacuzzi stretches across the front of the property making the most of the spectacular views while remaining private from the outside world. The house even has its own path leading down to the beach. Six en-suite bedrooms, balconies, verandas, a music room and lots of living space make this a great hideaway. At the back of the house is a sheltered courtyard with a large swimming pool and an al fresco dining area. POA.
Cote Sud Villa, Higgovale: This palatial home is situated in 3000m² of parkland on the slopes of Table Mountain, affording it breathtaking views of Table Bay, the harbour, the city skyline and the mountains beyond. Higgovale is the most exclusive residential area within the city bowl, with just a few streets winding their way through lush greenery and mountain streams. It feels miles from anywhere, but in fact is just minutes from the city centre, the V&A Waterfront, the cable car and many popular beaches. A granny flat is available in addition to the four enormous en-suite bedrooms. The charming garden has a heated swimming pool and a gazebo. Daily rate from ZAR 7 000.
The Old Winery, Constantia: A historical building which has been totally restored and now provides a comfortable house with an abundance of character. The house features four bedrooms and three bathrooms and there is also a one bedroom cottage available. French doors lead from the dining room onto a delightful outdoor veranda which overlooks the property’s substantial garden with its swimming pool and pergola-covered terrace. 20 minutes from the city centre and 15-20 minutes from the most popular beaches. Daily rate of ZAR 4 800 for the house or ZAR 5 400 for the house and the cottage.
Villa Vereguth, Clifton: A large and very spacious Tuscan style four bedroom villa with spectacular views of the Atlantic Seaboard and the luxury yachts often anchored in the bay. Two minutes by car from the world-renowned Clifton beaches, and a short drive from Camps Bay. Villa Vereguth is ideal for outdoor entertainment, breakfasts on the sea-facing balcony or al fresco lunch in the mountain-facing garden where the secluded pool area has a rock waterfall flowing into the swimming pool. There is also an entertainment theatre, air-conditioning, gym and wireless internet connection. Daily rate of ZAR 8 400.
Sea Ranch, Noordhoek: A four bedroom, newly renovated luxurious holiday home. Its distinctly unusual décor and design is focused towards creating a space of peacefulness and tranquillity, making the most of its awesome sea views and fabulous indoor / outdoor flow. Located on the hillside above the seven kilometre stretch of beach, its wraparound timber decks and wall-to-ceiling glass windows ensure that the exquisite views are enjoyed from every angle. Walking distance to the beach, with a lawned garden and a magical indigenous landscape on the hillside behind, the house is perfect for families or for travellers seeking a tranquil, relaxed retreat. New on the market. Daily rate of ZAR 3 600.
Sillery Cottage, Constantia: A luxurious three bedroom cottage, exquisitely positioned in the heart of the Constantia valley, just a few minutes from stunning wine farms and fabulous restaurants. The master bedroom is en-suite, and the living area is spacious and open-plan, with French doors leading onto the terrace and private pool. The acre of wild garden offers rolling lawns and welcome shade under the trees. A variety of the best beaches in Cape Town can be reached within 15-25 minutes of this central location, and the city centre is just a 20 minute drive north. Great for a family or a group of friends. Daily rate of ZAR 2450.
Haven House, Noordhoek: An elegant thatched home with a charming country feel, situated in a quiet location with lovely sea views towards the setting sun. The three main bedrooms (master en-suite) are supplemented by a studio flat which is available at an extra cost. The spacious sitting room has French doors which lead on to the veranda overlooking the charcoal pool and garden. 35 minutes from the city centre and a short drive from the pubs and farm stalls of Noordhoek village and the spectacular Noordhoek beach. Perfect for a family. Daily rate of ZAR 3 000.
Dunmore Apartment, Clifton: Situated above the world famous white sands of Clifton's beaches, this apartment offers two bedroom comfort and luxury. Direct access parking ensures easy mobility, a rare find in this popular cliff-side area. The apartment has stunning sea views from the living areas and both the bedrooms as well as the balcony, and is an easy stroll from the beach. 15 minutes from the city centre. Daily rate of ZAR 2 700.
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