Although she has lived in South Africa for more than 20 years, Evi Elsner still has her Bavarian accent, and she still raves about this place. “This was always a dream of mine,” she says with a big smile. Once you walk through The Barn’s loft-like living and dining room, open the terrace door and look out at the shimmering blue, gently rolling sea, you have to agree. It is a dream, but one you can rent (and, as it happens, afford).
The House
The Barn came about because Evi and her husband, Jochem, had some extra space next to their own house. So they built this white cottage, perfectly oriented, with high, loft-like rooms. There are two bedrooms of the same size, each with its own bathroom, making it perfect for two to four guests, plus a large, light-filled living room with a kitchen, a big dining table and tall windows facing the water.
Facts
The Barn is a classic vacation home that can be rented year-round. The kitchen has everything you might need for a longer stay, including a dishwasher and a washing machine. Out on the veranda, there is a small plunge pool for cooling off and a Weber grill for the obligatory braai. Parking is on the property, which also has an alarm system.
Yzerfontein
The small town of Yzerfontein is just over an hour’s drive north of Cape Town, about 90 kilometers (55 miles) up the west coast. It is known for Sixteen Mile Beach, which runs north to the West Coast National Park, while Blouberg beach, on the way back toward the city, is famous for its breathtaking view of Table Mountain. Don’t expect a Maldives-style beach with 27-degree water, though: In summer, from November to April, the Atlantic here is around 19 to 20 degrees Celsius (66 to 68 Fahrenheit).
Yzerfontein itself is small and easy to navigate, a lovely community of about 2,000 residents, many of them European. It gets a little busier in the South African summer but is never overcrowded. There is also no township in Yzerfontein.
Combine with
Most trips to South Africa start in Cape Town, where we highly recommend a stay at our dear member The Trevoyan on Kloof Street. If you have time, head to the Winelands to stay with Marc and James at 7 Koppies. If your budget allows, the retreat Sterrekopje Farm is also worth a visit (we went, and it’s beautiful). And after all that, treat yourself to a relaxing week at The Barn, right by the sea.
Children
The Barn isn’t ideal for small children, so kids must be 7 or older.
Prices
The whole house from 300 euros per night, about 500 euros in high season.
Booking & Contact
The Barn Yzerfontein
Evi Elsner
Fynbos Crescent
Yzerfontein 7351
Western Cape / South Africa
