Crayfish season closes in a few weeks' time, so hit the R27 to Paternoster and sample some 'red gold' on a West Coast weekend escape
RUSTIC: The Beach Camp (www.beachcamp.co.za; 082 926 2267)
It's all about getting back-to-basics at The Beach Camp, plonked on the rocky shoreline of Cape Columbine Nature Reserve. Choose a wooden A-frame hut (R250 pp) or dome tent (R200pp). The kitchen tent is well kitted out for self-catering.
When you get tired of watching the tide roll in and out, there is fishing, walking and some of the best sea-kayaking (guided tours R110/hour) in the country to enjoy. In springtime the reserve is a riot of colour as flowers carpet the hills, and the lighthouse is perhaps the best sundowner spot in the country.
HOMELY: Mosselbank B&B (www.weskus.com, 022 752 2027)
Petro and Koos make you feel like family at this owner-run B&B set a Frisbee-throw from the beach. The upstairs rooms are your best bet, with a balcony offering a view of the bright blue sea and, in season, whales cavorting in the bay. If the cold fronts roll in, the fireplace in your room will keep you cosy. The family unit and downstairs rooms don't have the views, but are a little cheaper if you're on a budget. The breakfast, like the warm welcome, is legendary. You will be return. R295-R365 pp
GREAT DEAL: Sugarshack (www.sugarshackcollection.co.za; 082 828 5168)
The candy-pink shutters are a hint that this isn't your usual West coast cottage. Beyond the white walls are three stylish bedrooms to share with friends and family, where playful touches abound from the woven heart above the bath to quirky art on the walls.
It's just two minutes walk to the beach, or kick back in the Adirondack chairs on the balcony and while away the late summer days. As the sun dips throw some crayfish on the braai or wander down to 'The Voorstrand' restaurant for a feast right on the beach. R1500-R2000/night for the cottage.
Originally published in Mango Juice; the in-flight magazine of Mango Airlines
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Or just a sign of commercialism heading south? Refuse to shop at Melissa's nowadays: overpriced and average
