BY THE SEASIDE COTTAGE (Kalk Bay, South Africa)

No wonder this cottage is so heavily booked almost throughout the year. The perfect place for a couple getaway, this double-storied flat affords its occupants peace and privacy. You feel relaxed and safe at all times. It’s an intimately snug, complete little home from home, neat, clean, well appointed and comfortable. The garden, too, beautiful and tranquil, pleases the eye and soothes the soul. The side streets in the neighbourhood may be quite narrow and parking at a premium, but it takes only a little patience and average good luck to find a spot close by. (A heads-up: As there’s no downhill access to cars at the top end of Rosmead Rd—you can’t drive down it—the parking nearest to the cottage is in Quarterdeck Rd itself, from where you walk a mere 18 steps down to the cottage.)

OK, so it’s not literally right next to the sea, but with the view of the sea from the upstairs bedroom, the ever-present sound of it, and the full spectacle of the bay a mere 3-minute walk from the cottage, you know that you are indeed at the seaside! After all, Kalk Bay is a fishing village, a historical cultural gem of its kind, for the enjoying of which Chris’s cottage is ideally situated. At times the narrow, uphill streets and the restaurants and shops reminded us of Varenna on Lake Como.

Chris is a delightful, affable hostess, always helpful, at hand or accessible if needed, and never intrusive. She knows the area thoroughly and her tips are totally reliable. For instance, “Live Bait” at the jetty (below the swanky Harbour House), a plain resto where the hake (ask for it grilled, without any batter) and chips, served with a little fresh, delicious salad, is a must-eat and great value for money. Thanks Chris!

Fellow “Airbnber,” if you’re touring in and around Kalk Bay, and are looking for a cosy, self-catering place is to stay a few days, look no further than Chris’s cottage at 18 Rosmead Road. We certainly look forward to our next stay, which we have no doubt will be even rosier than before.