Unusual Getaway: The Cave House

WORDS Michaela Stehr PHOTOS SaltyC Productions

Situated just outside the small town of Montagu is The Cave House on Abrikoos Kloof reserve. A creative getaway spot as a prime example of incorporating the surrounding landscape with its architecture.

Nestled in a low-rainfall area where cloudless skies are prevalent and extreme changes between hot and cold, the owner of Life of Nomadic, Dennis Viet, had an idea to create a semi-self-catering spot with a difference. Built into the actual rock face of an existing cave, The Cave House is a completely immersive experience as you live in the landscape of the Karoo with all of the creature comforts of home. 

“Abrikoos Kloof Private Pod Reserve is a place where luxury and privacy come together to create a truly intimate experience. As a part of the Life of Nomadic stays, our goal is to offer couples from all over the world a chance to escape from their busy lives and focus on reconnecting with each other,” he explains. “Our team is dedicated to making your stay as personalised and unforgettable as possible.”

When Dennis conceptualised his dream of The Cave House, there was an existing old brick structure in place that provided the initial idea to demolish and design what we see today. He then got to work with his own build team, giving them the brief of “Clean, Authentic, married to the raw architectural natural beauty of the rock feature. Timeless without compromise,” – with a result being raw primitive nature meeting elegant Victorian design with a contemporary edge. 

“The Cave House’s design embraces the natural elements of the surrounding environment, with a focus on raw, unadorned materials like natural stone and dark brick veneer,” Dennis elaborates. “The large steel profiles and solid meranti timber doors and windows frame the stunning views, bringing the beauty of the outdoors into every corner of the interior space.” 

The idea to create a pared-back aesthetic with stand-out features including a hot tub and a brass bath, bode for ultimate relaxation. Watch nature pass by with the indoor/outdoor layout that lends itself to the surroundings.

Inside, the spacious four-poster extra king-size bed beckons you to sink in and relax. In the morning, step into the cosy breakfast nook nestled beside a large sash window, and take in the breathtaking scenery over a cup of coffee. The bathroom is equally luxurious, featuring a stunning copper bathtub as the centrepiece. The lighting, inspired by the cave’s natural rock formations, adds to the unique ambience both inside and outside the home.

Whether you choose to be wined and dined by the in-house private chef or have a private braai alone under the stars, the experience is designed to cater for guests’ needs, from being spoiled to complete seclusion.

The Cave House is a perfect example of symbiosis between design and nature, used to create peace of mind and rejuvenation. | abrikooskloof.co.za

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