I’ve made it my mission to find the perfect Christmas holiday escape before we say farewell to 2021, writes Cape {town} Etc’s Lynn Cupido. Whether the year held some incredible memories for you or some disastrous ones, we all owe it to ourselves to splurge a bit and breathe in some fresh air.
When I think Christmas Escape, I can’t help but picture the fresh smell of the ocean, along with the gentle sprays of the rolling blue waves. De Hoop Nature has always been at the top of my accommodation bucket list and is the perfect spot for anyone looking to enjoy a few fun activities in nature. Birdwatching, hiking, mountain biking, watching the sunset beyond the horizon – this is just the tip of the iceberg when attempting to explore the untouched nature of this 34 000-hectare conservancy. It’s also considered the best spot in the world to watch the whales frolic in the ocean.
The reserve has plenty of accommodation options for those looking to experience this slice of paradise, ranging from modest to luxurious, there’s a little something to suit everyone’s taste and budget. However, it’s the reserve’s Lekkerwater Beach Lodge that stands out as a winner, offering a luxurious seaside escape that allows you to soak up all the glorious beauty that this region provides.
Overlooking a six-kilometre stretch of pristine white-sandy beach and offering seven off-the-grid suites, this accommodation is beautifully designed and ensures the mesmerising ocean views remain the centre of attention. It’s the perfect summer getaway, with a sprawling wrap-around deck that provides the perfect location for you to watch the sun go down after a long day exploring De Hoop Nature Reserve. You’ll have to share this haven with a few other guests, but the family-style atmosphere and mouth-watering dishes cooked up by the incredible chefs will undoubtedly make up for it.
The lodge is perched on a sand dune that overlooks the ocean, and while guests are treated to spectacular views, you’ll have to work a bit harder to enjoy these views up close. Numerous steps descend down to the beach with a few steepish walkways that you’ll need to navigate – it’s all worth it though.
Spend your days enjoying the utter seclusion that this accommodation has to offer, with no TVs and sporadic WiFi all part of the package to ensure that you get in touch with nature. Visit their website for more information and a chance to book one of their suites!
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Picture: Lekkerwater Beach Lodge