Recently we had the privilege of spending a few nights at Simbavati’s Fynbos on Sea. A new addition to the Simbavati Lodge collection and their only coastal property, Fynbos on Sea, is perched high on the hill above the quiet town of Sedgefield along the Garden Route of South Africa.
Once a private home, this unique property has just nine rooms, and we were looking forward to a peaceful escape away from other tourists where we could just relax as a family. Upon our arrival, we were met by spectacular views of the Indian Ocean on the one side and the rivers and mountains of the Garden Route on the other. A stunning pool overlooking the panoramic view was calling our name.
Foodie heaven in Sedgefield
Intending to make us feel truly at home, the friendly staff were there immediately to help us settle in. The first one was the on-site chef, who was ready and willing to cater to our every need, asking about our preferences for breakfast and dinner, which were made to order. With a one-year-old daughter, sitting down to enjoy a meal we have not had to cook is an absolute pleasure. With the video monitor handy just in case, we felt completely at ease as she slept peacefully in the room as we indulged in a bottle of wine and a gourmet three-course meal prepared especially for us from fresh, local ingredients.
The next day we awoke to the sun rising behind the mountains. It was time for breakfast, and again the team of Fynbos on Sea showed us how much they care, even cutting our daughter’s French toast in stars, squares, and circles which she took delight in chomping down.
A natural haven on the Garden Route
But our trip to Sedgefield wasn’t only about good food! As the name suggests, Fynbos on Sea is situated on a 600-hectare Fynbos reserve home to eland, zebra, bushbuck, and waterbuck. The lodge offers mountain biking trails through the reserve, but with our baby in tow, we opted instead for a relaxing nature drive. During our drive, we were taken to Gericke’s Point lookout. This headland, high above the town of Sedgefield, looks over the beach and the Indian Ocean, providing the perfect sundowner spot.
Down on the beach, you can marvel at the magnificent sandstone cliffs up close, or at low tide, you can take a walk through the rock pools where you may see an octopus or two if you are lucky.
Once we were done sunbathing and exploring the beach, we enjoyed making our way into the town of Sedgefield to browse around the many interesting shops. If you are there on a Saturday, be sure not to miss out on the Wild Oats market, full of exciting crafts and delicious farm-fresh goodies. And linger longer, and you’ll find live bands and even more great food right back at Simbavati Fynbos on Sea’s beautiful bistro every Sunday! You know where you’ll find us next weekend.
