Local is LEKKERWATER

LOCATION

Built on the site of what was once FW de Klerk’s coastal hideaway, Lekkerwater Beach Lodge is situated on a private concession in the eastern reaches of the 34,000ha De Hoop Nature Reserve. It’s a three-hour drive from Cape Town, with some gravel, but just about manageable for a weekend escape.

ROOMS & FACILITIES

Lekkerwater offers seven standalone suites, all of them sea-facing. That’s something of an understatement though. Here you’ll feel the waves rumbling up to your private balcony and chances are high you can watch dolphins from under your duvet. The suites aren’t huge, but they offer all the comforts and mod-cons you could ask for. Shower with a sea view? Tick. Cetaceansized bed? Sure. Wood-burning fireplace? Absolutely. The largest suite is great for families, with an extra twin-bedroom upstairs for the youngsters.

DINING

Meals are served in the airy main lodge, where couches on the wide terrace offer another inviting option for admiring the views. Indoors, a wide communal table dominates the space. It’s intended to bring guests together over meals, but if you’d rather dine alone with your beloved, that can be arranged too. The chefs here are nothing but flexible, and can sort out the menu for a private beach picnic, vegetarian diet or finicky young traveller. The food is homely, generous and delicious, with the likes of hearty potjies and Malay-inspired bobotie. Rates are fully inclusive, so help yourself at the well-stocked bar.

ACTIVITIES

With 6km of secluded beach to explore, days at Lekkerwater revolve around the rise and fall of the tides. When the tide is out you’ll explore the vibrant rock pools with the resident guides, and when it’s up you’ll head for the hills to discover the rich fynbos of the reserve. Keep an eye out for antelope here too, or head to Potberg and the breeding colony of endangered Cape vultures. If all else fails, pull up a chair at the lodge and soak up the view.

WHEN TO GO

De Hoop’s seas are most famous for the southern right whales that visit from June to October. Take advantage of the last few months of Lekkerwater’s opening special, valid until end-July 2019.

RATES

Until July 31, R2,950 per person per night includes accommodation, meals, drinks and activities. After August 1, it’s from R3,800R6,900 per person per night.

BOOKING

See https://naturalselection.travel

This European capital city is famous for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system and narrow houses — as well has having more bicycles than citizens. Interestingly, it was also the headquarters of John Lennon and Yoko Ono’s first week-long Bed-In for Peace, almost exactly 50 years ago. To stand a chance of winning R500, tell us the name of the city. Send your answer to travelquiz@sundaytimes.co.za. Entries close at noon on Tuesday May 21. Last week’s winner is Dumisani Nodada from Kuilsriver. The correct answer was Khao Sok National Park.

Richard Holmes Picture: © Richard Holmes LEKKERWATER BEACH LODGE, WESTERN CAPE MIGHTY FYN Lekkerwater is on a private concession in the De Hoop Nature Reserve.