A Crescendo of Wanderlust

Experiencing one-of-a-kind luxury at Tintswalo Atlantic

Known for its secluded location, dramatic views, and dedication to service excellence, Tintswalo Atlantic sits serenely nestled on the shores of Hout Bay. Guests are invited to relax in delicious seclusion while the waves gently lap the shore just in front of their personal decks. Whether it is raining or gloriously sunny, Tintswalo Atlantic is one of the most unique lodges you will find anywhere in the Cape. Shannon Correia went to experience the iconic Tintswalo style of luxury for herself, and she came back refreshed in both body and soul.

Tintswalo Atlantic is shrouded in a cloak of mystery. As tourist buses slowly pass by the hotel’s sign, people are left wondering – “What is Tintswalo?” Among locals, it has a reputation for being an oasis, so secluded in its location that few have ever even laid eyes on the establishment. Being a travel writer, I dream of going to the most unique places I can find, and it will be no surprise to learn that Tintswalo Atlantic was at the top of my list.

A Tintswalo Atlantic experience starts with a scenic journey along the iconic Chapman’s Peak Drive. With breathtaking vistas, it is no wonder that this is a ‘must visit’ for tourists visiting the Mother City. Arriving at the gates, we were welcomed wholeheartedly by a member of the Tintswalo team and promptly transferred down to the seafront. As the road is steep, patrons are asked to leave their cars in the locked parking area while a staff member transports you down the sharp descent towards the ocean. Perched just by the water’s edge is the lodge, decorated with luxurious finishing touches of blue and lightreflecting chandeliers, echoing the colours you see in the ocean. Once checked in we were ushered to the deck, where we sipped on a cocktail (or three) and relaxed in the fresh sea air.

At Tintswalo Atlantic, the smell of the sea salt and the sound of crashing waves permeate the property, promoting guests to fully immerse themselves in the surrounding environment, as if lulled into a state of constant relaxation and healing. By the time your stay draws to a close, it is this soft feeling of the ocean that will stay with you long after you have departed.

Tintswalo Atlantic is one of the country’s most romantic places to stay and it comes as no surprise that it is a popular choice for weddings and honeymoons. As a five-star, award-winning boutique lodge at the base of the ocean-facing Table Mountain National Park, Tintswalo are custodians of a very unique section of land. Being the only hotel within the park, Tintswalo takes great pride in their location and do all they can to make as little impact on the natural surroundings as

possible. Only a few metres from the water’s edge of the Atlantic Ocean, there is no other destination quite like this one.

After being ravaged by a fire earlier this year, Tintswalo is open once again and just waiting for guests to revel in its renewed splendour. Dip into the heated pool with the ocean before you, or lay on the hammock on the beachfront with pebbles and the receding waves below you for a state of true bliss. You would be hard-pressed to take your eyes off the striking mountains before you, the vivid shades of blue in the expansive waters, or the rocks that pop up among the bits of maroon seaweed. Keep your eyes out for marine life, too, as dolphins and whales are common visitors to Hout Bay.

Tintswalo Atlantic boasts 10 uniquely-styled luxury suites and one two-bedroom suite, all of which have been inspired by different islands from around the world.

Each suite is ocean-facing with a full en-

suite bathroom, private deck, wood-burning fireplace, and panoramic sea view.

During turn-down service, guests are given a note with more information on the island by which their suite is inspired. My partner and I stayed in the Java room, based on the Indonesian island. The room was decked out in the finest of everything. I struggled to find a spot I wanted to situate myself, from the massive bed with the softest pillows (and gowns to match), to the freestanding bathtub with an aweinspiring ocean view, or the balcony with two swinging chairs. It is here that nothing but the wonders and beauty of nature feed your very soul.

Sunsets are a dramatic spectacle at Tintswalo Atlantic. As the sun sinks into the horizon, guests are welcome to join the team for sunset canapés and the ‘Cocktail of the Day’ on the main deck.

The restaurant provides three-course dinners and is run under the watchful eye of Chef Thando Jaxa and his team of experienced chefs. I opted for the risotto starter, a hearty lamb dish for my main course, and probably the best dessert I have ever had – a chocolate and orange tart. Chocolate is the way to my heart, and Tintswalo Atlantic well and truly stole it with this dessert.

Drifting off to sleep at night is only a pleasure at Tintswalo – the waves act as a gentle lullaby while the soft pillows and sheets cocoon you and send you off to the land of deep sleep. In winter, soft raindrops can be heard bouncing off the roof, making your bed seem even softer and warmer while the weather stirs outside.

As we woke in the surrounds of luxury, we were delighted to step out onto the deck and enjoy breakfast under the pergola.

Presented with a menu offering us the best of the morning favourites, we started our day with deliciously roasted coffee and a selection of heavenly baked goodies, followed by a hot breakfast and a mimosa in the sunshine. Try as I may, I could not think of a more idyllic morning.

Before bidding a sad farewell to the lodge, we were encouraged to share in Tintswalo’s good fortune ritual. Departing guests are invited to pick up a pebble (which will be adorned with a meaningful message), make a wish, and toss it into the sea. As my message of goodwill sunk under the waves, I was left quietly reflecting on the most serene weekend of my life so far.

For more info, visit www.tintswalo.com.