Botha House, Pennington

Accommodation art

Any complicated feelings I might have had about staying in a former president’s holiday home disappeared when I saw the beautiful architecture of Botha House in Pennington. Gabled wings, a grand staircase, wood panelled dining room and an enviable position right at the sea make this a spectacular character stay.

What I love about Botha House:

• Impressive architecture with wings of the building facing different directions, balconies, and verandas that maximise the ocean-front setting
• Full height windows and exterior doors make the spacious rooms light and airy
• Understated decor allows the features and fixtures of the building to show themselves in all their historical finery
• Original, classically-lined, grand wardrobes, wood panelling and furniture
• Big bathrooms with sash windows, ocean views and ball and claw baths
• Almost ten decades of history which has seeped into the fabric of the building

 

Accommodation experience:

It is often the unexpected aspects of a place which snag one’s breath. At Botha House, it was a combination of the artistic architecture and the setting right next to the ocean, which created a play of light, with sunrise views to open the heart. I stayed in one of the luxury upstairs suites which had a fireplace, high sash windows on two sides of the room, as well as a grand old door leading onto a balcony. The changing sea and skies seem to come right into the room and lift one’s attention to be aware and appreciative of one’s surroundings.

To me, beautiful accommodation is art which fulfils all the senses. And Botha House delivers on every aspect of this creativity – providing a sense of history and intrigue, clever design, endlessly entertaining views, and soft comfort to awaken one’s body and mind to a unique setting, both past and present.

The Gorge Private Game Lodge and Spa

Plush nature hide

The Gorge Private Game Lodge and Spa

Oribi Gorge, KwaZulu-Natal South Coast

I had expected the views at The Gorge Game Lodge and Spa to be pretty, but they were spectacular. When I walked into the suite, with its full height and 180 degree windows, the view took my breath away. Situated on the edge of a dramatic corner of the Oribi Gorge, the views span a broad stretch of the gorge and silvery river below.

The architecture of the suites makes the most of the unique location and vast views, with individual curved free-standing units perched on the edge of a drop into the gorge. The use of natural stone walls, taupe neutrals, clean white linen and a hint of stylish African decor enhances the feeling of belonging in the natural setting. The clever design means that one can relax in the huge bath and outdoor shower with amazing views and complete privacy. The gorge views provide endless entertainment in the form of changing skies and birds of prey flying right past the expansive windows and balcony so that it feels like you are in a plush nature hide.

The Gorge personnel were enthusiastic to meet every wish, including being pleased to serve meals on the balcony of the suite to create one's own private, candle-lit restaurant. The food was delicious and beautifully presented. While being attentive, the staff also respected one's personal space.

As a private retreat in luxury and natural beauty I highly recommend The Gorge. The Gorge Private Game Lodge and Spa is a member of the Portfolio Collection, and for more details visit www.portfoliocollection.com.

Things I loved about The Gorge Game Lodge and Spa:

• The dramatic views of the Oribi Gorge
• The clever architecture which maximises these views to create a feeling of being in a private, luxurious nature hide
• Spectacular bathroom views with enormous bath and both an outdoor and indoor shower
• Stylish decor which integrates luxury with the natural feel of the setting
• Private candle-lit dinners on the balcony of one’s own suite
• Enthusiastic and respectful staff

Accommodation Experience:

I loved the long bubble baths by starlight, enjoying moonlit views of the gorge below. 

My other favourite spot was my private balcony and I was thrilled to have dinner served here at my suite. Watching the late sunset, while having a delicious meal, was a highlight, especially when a pair of Rainbirds flew past one evening. Usually fairly shy, it was a privilege to watch them float down together in synchronised flight right past the balcony, unaware of my presence. I felt very awake, alive, calm and quietly grateful.