WHAT'S IN A NAME?
Tintswalo at Boulders is the latest addition to the coastal portfolio of this upmarket lodge collection. While the impressive - but pricey - Tintswalo Atlantic is rebuilt following a devastating fire in February, the Boulders outpost makes a fine coastal bolthole. Never mind the noisy neighbours.
LOCATION
Tintswalo at Boulders is set immediately above the famous penguin-populated beach on Cape Town's False Bay coastline. It's a short drive from the historic naval village of Simonstown, and just 45 minutes from the centre of Cape Town and the airport. In other words, a fine spot for a wintry weekend escape or mid-week staycation.
ROOMS & FACILITIES
Tintswalo at Boulders offers eight rather opulent suites, each named for famous sailing ships and decorated to celebrate the villa's maritime setting. Inclusive mini-bars come stocked with soft drinks, and complimentary evening snacks are delivered to your room. A nice touch.
For added romance and the best sea views, book the Drommedaris or Water Witch suites on the top floor. On ground, the pair of queen beds in the Grosvenor suite makes it a better option for families.
While the rooftop pool may not tempt in the cool winter months, the deck is a fine spot for whale watching from June-October.
WHAT'S ON THE MENU?
Rooms here are booked as bed-and-breakfast, and a fine spread is laid on each morning. For lunch or dinner, nearby Simonstown offers a good range of eateries. The deep-fried fish at Salty Sea Dog is as cheap as the proverbial chips, or bag a quayside table at Bertha's for a fine seafood selection.
ACTIVITIES
The villa has direct access to the wooden boardwalk that meanders through coastal forest above the Boulders beaches, and is two minutes' walk from the entrance to the Boulders section of the Table Mountain National Park (daily 8am to 5pm, R39/R20 per adult/child).
In Simonstown, browse the boho boutiques or discover South Africa's seafaring history at the SA Naval Museum (daily 9.30am to 3.30pm, free). The nearby Scratch Patch has been a hit with local kids since 1970 (small bag of gemstones, R22).
WHEN TO GO
Summer is ideal for a bracing dip in the sea; in the cold winter months, you'll be rewarded with moody sea views and the (very good) chance of watching Southern Right whales breaching in the bay.
RATES
Low-season rates start from R2,500 per room per night, B&B.
BOOKING
See tintswalo.com.
• Holmes was a guest of Tintswalo Boulders..