Bonne Esperance: Studio Room

Home to a delightful colony of protected African penguins as well as the country’s largest naval base, Simon’s Town offers many delights to those seeking a laidback seaside escape. There are tucked-away beaches to laze upon, quirky shops to explore, a host of delightful restaurants to sample and – on the sunny slopes that serve as the area’s beautiful backdrop – there’s Bonne Esperance, a lovingly restored historical guest house that’s presided over the area for more than 100 years.

There are three elegant ensuite bedrooms in the main house – think Oregon pine floors, cosy nooks and stately Victorian fireplaces – as well as a shared kitchen, parlour, dining room and deck. The Annex portion of the house contains three lovely self-catering studios, each with its own kitchenette and situated off a large courtyard with a private entrance (Studio 2 is the only unit with a bath). Guests also have access to braai facilities, a communal swimming pool, laundry and a cleaning service (on request). Rooms can be booked individually, or the entire main house can be reserved for exclusive use by a larger group or family.

THE LODGINGS

Bedrooms + bathrooms

• 1 bedroom with a king-size bed (Studio 2) or queen-size bed (Studios 3 and 4)
• 1 ensuite bathroom with bath and shower (Studio 2) or shower only (Studios 3 and 4)

Indoor + outdoor living

• Kitchenette with a 2-plate gas stove, microwave, fridge and dining area
• Small living area
• Tea and coffee facilities
• Shared courtyard
• Communal swimming pool
• Access to braai facilities
• Complimentary WiFi

THINGS TO DO

On the property

• Swimming
• Braaiing
• Admiring the sea views

In the area

• Historical buildings, museums, antique shops, cafes and restaurants in Simon’s Town
• Various beaches
• Various hikes
• Penguin viewing at Boulder’s beach (a five-minute walk)
• Nearby towns of Scarborough, Kalk Bay, Fish Hoek and Muizenberg
• Cape Point (a 15-minute drive)