At some point in our lives we all dream of escaping to the coast, and while a cosy seaside accommodation can be just what the doctor ordered, sometimes a little more luxury is required! If you’d like to experience opulent seaside living, then check out the following places:

1. Belvidere Manor, Knysna

The gorgeous views of the Knysna Lagoon, seen from the single, or double storey self-catering cottages at Belvidere Manor, make it an ideal getaway for a couple, family, or small group of friends. The interiors of the cottages are sumptuous and homey, with fireplaces in the lounge, DStv, a fully-equipped kitchen, simple décor, and of course, very cosy bedrooms. Each cottage has a large patio area to relax on, as well as a secluded garden area that numerous local bird species visit, where children can play safely. Find out more.

2. The River Shack, Dana Bay

The River Shack is a country-styled coastal cottage, with a prime position within the Moquini Private Coastal Reserve. Though it’s not star graded, there’s honestly very little shack to be seen in the tasteful décor, large rooms, and spacious balconies that take full advantage of the surrounding river and ocean views.  The private wooden deck overlooks the river mouth and the ocean, and due to the seclusion of the property, the bathrooms also overlook the surrounding nature and river. The bedrooms offer queen or twin beds, and are fully open-plan, with only a waist-high wall separating the en-suite bathrooms. Find out more.

 3. At the Beach 1, Paternoster

Perfect for those seeking a romantic rendezvous, At the Beach 1 can only take 2 people at a time, and offers views of the ocean and surrounding bushveld from its upstairs patio, only 20m away from the ocean. There is also a double bedroom and en-suite bathroom provide all the comforts of home while the thatched roof, quaint kitchen, and a diminutive sitting area complete the picture. Find out more.

4. Days at Sea Beach Lodge, Trafalgar

Rated as a 5-star accommodation, and listed as being one of the top 100 best Hideaway Hotels of the World for 3 years in a row, you are assured of a private, luxurious stay at Days at Sea Beach Lodge. Indulge in tasting some of their Platinum Award Wines, or spend a day exploring the surrounding Trafalgar Marine Reserve, where you can snorkel below the turquoise waters and spot aquatic life, or glimpse fossilised remnants of shellfish, petrified wood, and plants. The palm-lined pool area is perfect for sipping cocktails at, and with plenty of sunbeds, you can bronze to your heart’s content. Find out more.

5. Adenium Beachfront, Mouille Point

Adenium Beachfront is a stylish self-catering unit, set along the Atlantic Ocean. It offers spectacular sunsets, a central location along Cape Town’s “Platinum Mile”, and has room for 4 guests at a time. The interior décor is vibrant and tasteful, with pops of red and blue, along with plush rugs on the floor. There is a double bedroom and a twin bedroom, a luxurious double shower, and the living and dining areas lead to a fully-equipped gourmet kitchen. Find out more.

What luxury coastal cottages would you like to stay at?

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