Built on only one of four private concessions granted on the 36 000 hectare De Hoop Nature Reserve, and with its neighbouring marine reserve extending 5km out to sea (one of the largest protected marine areas in Africa), the setting of Morukuru Ocean House is one-of-a-kind. Crafted by hand in rough-hewn stone and entirely off-grid, it is sensitively designed to blend as much as possible with the surrounding fynbos – so much so that when foundations were dug, seeds were collected and replanted in the same position on top of the roof, creating a fynbos roof garden for the upper level of the house. Entirely lined in double-glazed glass, it has to be the world’s most beautiful spot for star gazing and whale viewing, with telescopes perfectly positioned for endless sightings while sipping a glass of award-winning chenin or a botanical gin.
