WHAT I FOUND ABOUT ACCOMMODATION HERE

• The bay is divided into six areas, each with its own distinctive vibe. The Canals is the most sought-after area with houses selling in the double-digit millions. It’s adjacent but somehow separate from the original Village; both have tight development guidelines

(black roofs, white walls) and a very pretty retail heart. Up on the hill behind is the new St Francis Links estate, popular with more than just golfers. Moving south is Santareme, with its own Mediterranean-inspired building guidelines, and then busy little

St Francis Port. At the southern tip is Cape St Francis, with its glorious beach and unconstrained architectural styles.

• With such good self-catering stock, I struggled to make my final selection – so much so, three categories are shared this month!

(But the area is popular, so the more choice the better, right?)

• The drawback with self-catering options is they almost all have minimum stays: usually three nights, and two weeks over Christmas or New Year.

• The best holiday-rental agent across the entire bay is Kerry Clare (kcproperties.co.za). The best agent specialising in Cape St Francis only is Diane Nicholson (capestfrancisproperties.com). Both know their stock well and will match your requirements with the best of what’s available.

• I was surprised by the dearth of contemporary-style B&Bs and guest houses catering to one- or two-night road trippers; thankfully I found one that hits the spot.