Although she has been living in South Africa for over 20 years, Evi Elsner still raves about this place. “This has always been a dream of mine,” she says. And once you pass through the loft-like living and dining room of The Barn, open the terrace door, and look out at the shimmering blue, gently rolling sea, you have to agree with her. It is a dream—one that you can rent (and also afford) quite easily.
The house
The Barn came into existence because Evi and her husband had some extra space next to their own house. So they created the white cottage, with perfect orientation and high, loft-like rooms. The house features two identically sized bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, making it perfect for two to four guests. In addition, there is a large, light-filled living room with a kitchen, a large dining table, and tall windows facing the water.
Facts
The Barn is a classic vacation home that can be rented throughout the year. The kitchen is equipped with everything you might need for a longer stay, including a dishwasher and a washing machine. Outside on the veranda, there’s a small outdoor pool for cooling off, and a Weber grill for the obligatory barbecue. Parking is available on the property, which is also equipped with an alarm system.
Yzerfontein
The tiny village of Yzerfontein is located just over an hour’s drive from Cape Town, heading northwest. The beach of Yzerfontein and Blauwberg is very famous because of its breathtaking view of the Table Mountain. However, it is not a Maldives-like beach with 27-degree warm water (in the summer, that is between November and April, the ocean temperature here is around 19/20 degrees).
Yzerfontein itself is small and manageable, a lovely settlement with many Europeans and about 2,500 inhabitants. It is a bit busier during the South African summer but never overcrowded. There is also no township in Yzerfontein.
Combine with
In South Africa, you usually start in Cape Town, where a stay at our dear member The Trevoyan in Kloof Street is highly recommended. If you have time, then head to the Winelands to Marc & James at 7Koppies. If you can afford it, you can also visit the new retreat resort, Sterrekopje Farm (we were there, it’s beautiful). And after the busy program, you can treat yourself to a relaxing week at The Barn Yzerfontein right by the sea.
Kids
Kids are ok, but must be older than 7 years.
Price
From 260 euros per night / high season 450 euros.
Booking & Contacts
The Barn Yzerfontein
Evi Elsner
Fynbos Crescent
Yzerfontein 7351
Cape Town / South Africa