Barefoot and fancy-free

This gorgeous cottage on the shores of the Langebaan Lagoon is the West Coast at its best!

- By Beatrice Moore-Nöthnagel, Photography by Henrique Wilding

The lagoon is part of a protected marine area and the water here is quite a bit warmer than on the rest of the West Coast, which makes it a popular tourist destination.

If you’re longing to escape to an out-of-the-way cottage at the seaside with its own solar power and not a soul in sight, then“Houthuisie” is the destination for you. This wooden house is located on a 6ha plot of land near Churchhaven in the West Coast National Park. The area is known as Schrywershoek and here you can enjoy young stingrays swirling around your feet in the shallow turquoise waters, an eagle’s nest between the reeds, flamingos putting on a colourful display and diverse wildlife that’ll exceed your wildest expectations.

This spot is hidden from the main routes, with a private entrance within the park. A winding pathway leads you to the foot of a slope with the Langebaan Lagoon on your doorstep. Although this wooden house has been here for many years, it was only recently converted into an idyllic getaway – thanks to a few clever changes.

The deck was extended at the front with a roof over most of it; a glass panel on the side provides protection from the westerly wind. A wooden corner couch was built in under the window and against the side panel.

Lanterns, side table and colourful striped sarong from Mr Price Home; natural sarong on table from The Cotton Company; knitted cotton blanket from Ethos; kikois (in basket) from Baraka Gifts and Decor

An old flag with a red cross adds a pop of colour at the window.