What kind of traveller would this property suit?

Sandcastle is perfect for a multi-generational group or two families travelling together. The villa has two primary suites and two classic suites which can be interleading –ideal for kids!

What in your opinion are some of the most standout/impressive features about the property?
The most obvious answer is the unique architecture and the uninterrupted views of the reserve and ocean. However, I think it’s the careful consideration that has gone into every single piece that adorns the walls. We also loved how everything was locally sourced – mohair throws, honey from the reserve’s hives, and traditional homemade ginger beer from the padstal!

What is the service at the property like?
The team did not miss a beat. On our arrival we were greeted with smiling faces and during our stay, the staff were always happy to help – discreet but always available. Our glasses were always refreshed and our bellies full. The guide, John, is passionate about the reserve, and was incredibly knowledgeable, suggesting great options depending on the day’s weather. We loved the fishing.

Tell us about the food (if applicable)…
The food alone is worth a trip out to Sandcastle. Meals are flavourful and delicious Ottolenghi-style of cooking. We were never short of anything, and if, somehow, we were peckish, the pantry was fully stocked with homemade goodies. Sandcastle makes a point of using local ingredients, and grows a lot of its own vegetable, so the meals complemented  the season.

How would you describe this property in a few sentences to someone wanting to book it?
An absolute hidden gem, Sandcastle is unlike anywhere else you have ever been. How many places offer the chance to look at a giraffe with the beach in the background, while you are sitting in the lounge of a real life sandcastle? For guests wanting complete privacy, Sandcastle really is it – kilometres of privately accessed beach front, a private nature reserve, with your nearest neighbours 10km away. Sandcastle is for the traveller that is looking to immerse themselves in nature while cocooned in luxury.

What activities are available to do there?
Every beach activity you can think of! Fishing, mussel foraging, sand boarding, kayaking, SUP boarding, lagoon fishing, river cruises, exploring the ancient storage artefacts amongst the towering dune and giraffe tracking! All of these are interspersed between the destination dining surprises! Which, I will let you find out about yourself…

Tell us about the journey to get to the destination – what are the logistics like in terms of travel time, transport etc?
I am here to dispel the idea that the Eastern Cape is difficult to access. I boarded my Safair flight from Cape Town to East London which only took 1h20m and Sandcastle’s preferred transfer company picked us up for the 45-minute drive to the villa, a smooth ride on the R72. For those with a bigger budget, the property has a helipad as well as a private landing strip.

What do you recommend to a guest in terms of a minimum length of stay for this property?

I feel you would be doing yourself a disservice for not going for at least four nights! There is plenty to do, but it is also delicious to do absolutely nothing but stare out at the view.

What time of year would this property be at optimal enjoyment?
Like most places in South Africa, summer is always amazing, and the summers really stretch in the Eastern Cape. Sandcastle is situated along the Sunshine Coast which boasts 300 days of sunshine a year. A perk of going in winter? Front row seats to the sardine run, with a roaring fire and a glass of red.

What is unique about this property?
I loved that you get to enjoy the bush and the beach in one setting! Each touch point was so carefully considered and you can feel a real personal touch. Sandcastle offered luxury in a completely unpretentious way.