Well, not quite. But if you count unrivalled luxury, pristine beaches, a private game reserve and panoramic views into the equation, then one feels like a true pioneer. A pampered pioneer mind you.
An oasis of tranquillity on the Garden Route coast, about an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth, lies Oceana. It was the last stop on our Eastern Cape adventure and probably the best. After days of bushwhacking in the stifling heat (hard life we know), it was a welcome change to kick back on the expansive deck with a drink in hand as the ocean purred softly. The cool sea breeze wafted through the air as animals congregrated at the waterhole below.
Oceana is also part of a wildlife reserve, and thus guarantees an exclusive game viewing experience. It may not be home to the Big Five but there is an abundance of buck as well as giraffe, rhino, buffalo and some bigger game. A bush buck seemed to reside beneath my private balcony and there was an almost permanent collection of antelope within view.
No wonder it has been called the best bush and beach destination in South Africa.
Our rooms were ultraluxurious, perfect for honeymooners or couples, with a decadent bath and double shower – all glass, opening out onto the bush and ocean but still entirely private. And each room has an expansive deck, where you can enjoy in-house dining or just appreciate the glorious views. A more romantic destination is hard to think of.
As evening approached so we were ferried down to the beach through lush forest on dune buggies, arriving to a champagne welcome. Silky white sand stretched out before us as we made virgin footsteps on the beautiful beach. It was the typical South African sundowner, but with style – one of those moments where we all wanted time to stop. You know what I mean.
But time waits for no-one, not even the most stubborn of Rhino Africans, so back up we raced to another drink on the deck and then a gargantuan feast for supper: roasted lamb or beef fillet accompanied by a cheese platter or ‘Death by Chocolate’ for dessert. It was too decadent for words.
After a few more drinks on deck, a few more hearty laughs and a few more contented sighs we called it a night. Across the horizon, the waves sparkled in the distance and zebra drank under the soft light of the waterhole. It was just another day at Oceana.
Contact us to book your spot here – you won’t be disappointed!
