Private Edition Issue 71 Sotheby's Realty

BIG BANG RELOADED

MANUFACTURE FLYBACK CHRONOGRAPH

SHOP L56, NELSON MANDELA SQUARE, SANDTON SHOP U9 & U10, BEDFORD CENTRE, BEDFORDVIEW

Winelands Winelands

Refined country living with boutique vineyards.

Refined country living with boutique vineyards.

Set high above the surrounding countryside, this stunning boutique wine farm is defined by its sense of calm, space and effortless sophistication.

Set high above the surrounding countryside, this stunning boutique wine farm is defined by its sense of calm, space and effortless sophistication.

The elevated position offers uninterrupted views, creating a feeling of total privacy and connection with the land. Asking Price: R 59,000,000.

The elevated position offers uninterrupted views, creating a feeling of total privacy and connection with the land. Asking Price: R 59,000,000.

Contact: Detlef Struck on 079 597 1727 / 021 809 2760.

Contact: Detlef Struck on 079 597 1727 / 021 809 2760.

Web Ref: SIR117529.

Web Ref: SIR117529.

living

FROM THE EDITOR

ISSUE 71 2026

IN AN INTERVIEW with Harper’s Bazaar earlier this year, Joyce Carol Oates famously asked, ‘If you could read Toni Morrison, why would you read AI?’

Novelist Margaret Atwood has widely shared this sentiment, saying she’s not particularly worried about AI because she’s sure people would rather read books written by humans than by machines. Ultimately, people value the human connection behind a story, the mixture of unique, strange, lived experiences, conversations and knowledge accumulated over a lifetime that are required to grow stories that feel true to a reader.

These sentiments, supported by studies, are part of an ongoing conversation about the value of human connection, not only in literature, but across multiple industries. We are drawn to a painting, novel, piece of music or even a building, because it makes us feel more connected to the person behind it and to each other. To this end, AI can only ever mimic rather than create an experience, leaving us feeling wholly unsatisfied.

Recently, I had the pleasure of staying at the newly opened Tintswalo Summer House in the seaside village of Glencairn near Simon’s Town. Interior designer Camlyn Johnston has gone to great lengths to pick the pieces of furniture, including stealing a few items from her mother’s home. Much of the lighting, from Murano glass light fittings to crystal chandeliers, has been thrifted from second-hand stores and then restored. She even went so far as to mix the paint

colour herself, creating a new shade known as ‘Tintswalo Pink’. The result is a highly original and very charming hotel that evokes a sense of play. There’s even a ‘Press here for Champagne’ button. (See ‘Whimsical Charm’, page 20).

In ‘Touch Wood’ (page 24), architect Jonathan Feldman has designed a special holiday home along the Santa Cruz coastline maximising Pacific Ocean views while maintaining respect for both nature and craftsmanship.

Across the oceans, Private Edition was invited to experience the current number two hotel on The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025 list, the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River. This was a sensorial experience that covered the scope of architecture, design and culinary delights. What truly elevated the experience were the people behind this magnificent hotel – including those who are responsible for Thailand's world-renowned hospitality. Read ‘The River of Kings’ on page 60. Like Atwood, I remain optimistic about the future, that people will continue to page through books or magazines to be taken on a human journey. At Private Edition we’re committed to using words and imagery produced by people. After all, why would you want to read a magazine produced by AI when you could enjoy one created by us?

EDITOR SUSAN NEWHAM-BLAKE snewham@tppsa.co.za

ART DIRECTOR TINA REDDELL

COPY EDITOR WENDY MARITZ

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE

BERNICE BLUNDELL bernice@adplacements.co.za 073 618 1882

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR SUSAN NEWHAM-BLAKE

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR JOHN MORKEL

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FINANCIAL MANAGER NAEEMA ABRAHAMS

SUSAN NEWHAM-BLAKE EDITOR

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The textures and tones of native

take centre stage indoors and out in

The world’s premier annual luxury watch event Watches and Wonders recently took place in Geneva, with more than 60 of the world’s leading watchmakers offering a snapshot of the state of horology in 2026.

What’s behind

with

cuisine? We provide insights from a new wave of Southern-European-inspired eateries in

Engineering Dreams.

Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Le Petit Prince, Ref. 3894

The spirit that leads the Little Prince beyond his asteroid continues to inspire us at IWC Schaffhausen: driven by curiosity, courage, and the pursuit of new horizons. This 41-millimetre chronograph in white zirconium oxide ceramic is IWC’s first ceramic watch dedicated to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved tale. The deep blue, sunray-finished dial recalls the vastness of space – created for those who never stop exploring what lies beyond the horizon. IWC. Engineered.

Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre · Cape Town

48

SENSORY STORYTELLING

Why FYN’s mini-cocktail meister, Jennifer Hugé, wants to offer her guests the opportunity to ‘travel through taste’.

52 THE INDIVIDUALS

How the automotive Class of ’26 is specialising in new thinking, clever design and – thankfully – exciting driving.

56 ON THE FAST TRACK

South Africa might just have another motorsport legend in the offing. Meet Chloe Stuart, the 16-year-old whose passion for the track, clear-headeness and self-belief belies her age.

60 ON THE RIVER OF KINGS

Time spent at the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok reveals the abundance of Thai hospitality in the city that never sleeps.

66 AN ANCIENT LAND

Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat in the Cederberg holds some of the oldest stories in the world.

www.grandseiko.seikostore.co.za

LEW GEFFEN CHAIRMAN

RIDING THE WAVE

THERE

IS A PARTICULAR WISDOM

THAT COMES FROM WATCHING MARKETS MOVE THROUGH CYCLES.

THERE HAVE ALWAYS been upswings and downturns that tested the resolve of even the most seasoned investors. Through it all, one truth has remained unshaken: real estate is not merely an asset class; it’s the foundation upon which lasting wealth is built.

In a world that seems to grow more volatile by the day, it’s easy to become fixated on the headlines. Geopolitical tensions flare, inflation stirs, interest rates shift and, suddenly, the temptation is to wait for calmer waters before making a move. But this is a myth. There will always be a crisis somewhere, a forecast to fret over, a reason to delay. The question is not whether the timing is perfect – it never is – but whether you are willing to think in years rather than months.

Property rewards the patient. It rewards those who understand that value is not determined by the noise of the moment but by the fundamentals of location, demand and the simple, enduring need for people to have a place to live, to work and to grow. Unlike the fleeting nature of so many modern investments, bricks and mortar do not vanish overnight. They stand as tangible, income-generating, equity-building anchors in a portfolio.

For clients who are waiting for the ‘right time’ to enter the market, my response is always the same: the right time was yesterday, and the next best time is today. Not because we should

YAEL GEFFEN CEO

ignore economic realities – we must be informed and strategic – but because waiting for absolute certainty means waiting forever. Those who build true wealth in property are not those who time the market perfectly; they are those who stay in the market consistently.

South Africa, for all its challenges, remains a land of opportunity for those willing to look beyond the immediate horizon. Our cities are growing, our communities are evolving, and the demand for quality housing and commercial space continues to rise. Yes, there are headwinds. There always have been. But the fundamentals of a good property investment – location, structural integrity, rental potential and long-term appreciation – remain as reliable today as they were a generation ago.

Choose properties with strong fundamentals. Invest for the long term. Let time do what it has always done: smooth out the volatility and reward those who had the courage to stay the course.

Here’s to building, not just buying. Here’s to the long view.

YAEL GEFFEN CEO, LEW GEFFEN SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

THE BRIEFING

COLLECTABLES

| OBJETS D’ART | DESIGN | DEPARTURES | TASTINGS

PRIVATE TIME

Modern elegance

BUILDING ON NEARLY TWO CENTURIES’ WORTH OF EXCELLENCE IN SWISS WATCHMAKING, LONGINES UNVEILS THE REDESIGNED HYDROCONQUEST COLLECTION THAT BLENDS PROVEN PERFORMANCE WITH CONTEMPORARY AESTHETICS.

Combining timeless design principles and reliability, HydroConquest takes inspiration from maritime adventure, offering timepieces that transition effortlessly from active pursuits to refined elegance. Available in 39mm and 42mm sizes, the range

features four new dial variations and five striking ceramic bezel colours, complemented by innovative bracelets, including a newly introduced Milanese mesh version.

The collection debuts with a compelling campaign starring Longines Ambassador of Elegance actor Henry Cavill, filmed on the dramatic shores of Tenerife, where the interplay of land and sea captures the very essence of the HydroConquest. In his own words, ‘This watch brings with it a sense of lightness and dignity. It evokes thoughts of spring and summer shores, docksides, and with them the promise of discovery so evocative of the classic elegance from Longines.’ longines.com

ACCELERATE

The past is present

THE NIGHTINGALE IS ROLLS-ROYCE’S LIMITED-EDITION ELECTRIC HOMAGE TO A 1920s INNOVATION. BY PETER FROST

In 1928 Rolls-Royce created a duo of prototype legends, the 17EX and 16EX Torpedo. Known at the time as the most complete embodiment of the Art Deco design ethos, they sported audacious ship-like proportions, a fighter pilot cockpit and a torpedo-shaped central fuselage hull reminiscent of a luxury yacht.

One hundred years later, Rolls-Royce will offer just 100 versions of the original car, named Nightingale. Updated, of course. And reinterpreted. The marque’s in-house Coachbuild Collection studio will test and hone the new car over the next two years before delivering the ton to owners who will be invited to apply for the privilege of paying R80 million. The new car will be fully electric, as is Rolls-Royce’s wont these days, and is based on the all-aluminium spaceframe platform that supports the likes of Cullinan, Phantom and Spectre. rolls-royce.com

OBJECT’S D’ART

Better together

POMELLATO CELEBRATES THE BEAUTY OF CONNECTION WITH NEW ADDITIONS TO ITS POMELLATO TOGETHER COLLECTION, HONOURING THE BONDS THAT SHAPE OUR LIVES.

For 2026, the Milanese maison presents two new creations featuring rose gold and white diamonds – designed to lend elegance to moments of personal significance.

At the heart of the collection, the Pomellato Together ring entwines polished rose-gold bands around a diamond-set central link. Sculptured yet fluid, its architecture balances strength and softness, with three independent bands surrounding a fixed bond that symbolises unity and intimacy.

Pomellato’s Together earrings reinterpret the interlocking motif in a refined silhouette. A pavé diamond link connects two smooth rose-gold hoops, creating a luminous, balanced form that moves gently with the wearer. Elegant and versatile, they transition effortlessly from day to evening. picotandmoss.co.za

DEPARTURES

Whimsical charm

THE LONG-AWAITED NEW OFFERING FROM TINTSWALO COLLECTION, SUMMER HOUSE, IS NOW OPEN. AND IT’S SOMETHING TRULY SPECIAL.

The Tintswalo Collection has opened Tintswalo Summer House in the seaside village of Glencairn. This exciting new boutique hotel joins sister properties in Cape Town, Tintswalo Atlantic and Tintswalo Boulders, to mark another milestone in Tintswalo’s ongoing commitment to distinctive, warm and character-rich hospitality.

Following meticulous renovation and design, the historical hotel has been reimagined as a luxurious seaside retreat that honours its heritage and embraces contemporary sophistication. Originally established in 1904 as the iconic Glencairn Southern Right Hotel, the property was a celebrated landmark of coastal elegance and a meeting place for dignitaries and notable public figures. Over the decades, the hotel fell into disrepair and lost its former grandeur. In 2014, Tintswalo acquired the historic building, initially operating it as a restaurant only, while researching and planning its full restoration.

Today, overlooking sweeping views of False Bay, Tintswalo Summer House is dressed in eye-catching ‘Tintswalo pink’. Offering 12 individually styled guest suites, the vibrant and colourful interiors of the meticulously restored heritage villa were designed by Camlyn Johnston, further growing the third-generation family business as head of Tintswalo Interiors, alongside her grandmother Gaye Corbett, and mother, Tintswalo CEO Lisa Goosen. Tintswalo Summer House has already earned industry recognition, receiving the prestigious Scape Gold Key Award, which celebrates design excellence in luxury hospitality and guest experiences.

And don’t be misled by the name. This hotel offers fireplaces and a cosy atmosphere even in the winter months with low-season rates available from 1 May. With its original character-filled charm, warm hospitality and unique setting, you won’t regret making a booking.

tintswalo.com

HENRY CAVILL

PRIVATE

TIME

Rethinking time

A NEW GENERATION OF HERMÈS WATCHES BALANCES TECHNICAL PRECISION WITH ARTISTIC EXPRESSION. BY

PAIGE DORKIN

Since Hermès first introduced watches in 1928, the maison has worked hard to earn its horological credentials. In 2006, it began producing its own in-house movements after acquiring a stake in movement specialist Vaucher Manufacture Fleurier. By 2012, it had established control over movements, dials and cases. And yet throughout these technical evolutions, artistic expression remained a brand signature.

Now, in 2026, recent releases underscore this duality. The Slim d’Hermès Hippocampe, a limited Métiers d’art series, transforms the dial into a canvas through engraving and leather marquetry, while the Slim d’Hermès Quantième Perpétuel tackles one of watchmaking’s most demanding

complications – a perpetual calendar – with characteristic restraint.

The house’s ‘Time Suspended’ complication allows one to pause the display entirely – a quietly radical gesture in an age where time is relentlessly optimised, quantified and tracked.

In the Hermès Arceau L’Heure de la Lune, twin satellite counters drift across a dial made from thin slivers of meteorite to chart lunar phases in both hemispheres. Meanwhile, the Hermès Arceau Le Temps Voyageur reimagines world time through an abstract cartography – less a tool for navigation than an invitation to see time differently.

The house’s icons are also evolving. The Hermès Cape Cod returns this year in refined mini proportions (27 X 20mm).

Across the themes of technical legitimacy, conceptual daring and timeless design, a modern vision emerges. A watch is no longer simply a measure of time, but a medium through which it can be interpreted, disrupted –or simply set aside. picotandmoss.co.za

TASTINGS

A taste of the seasons

THE FOUR SEASONS HOTEL THE WESTCLIFF, JOHANNESBURG, WELCOMES BABYLONSTOREN TO THE TABLE.

A series of exclusive seasonal dinners is now on offer as part of a yearlong partnership between The Westcliff and Babylonstoren.

Babylonstoren is one of the oldest Cape Dutch farms in the country, set at the foot of the Simonsberg in the Franschhoek Valley. What has been nurtured there over centuries is something increasingly rare: a working farm of extraordinary botanical diversity, where the kitchen follows the garden, the garden follows the season, and nothing arrives at the table before its time.

The four special dinners held during the year will be shaped entirely by what the farm and its cellar offer at that moment in the season, with produce harvested directly from Babylonstoren’s celebrated garden and wines selected by cellar master Klaas Stoffberg.

‘Babylonstoren has always held a special place for me,’ says Rudi Liebenberg, executive chef, Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff. ‘There is something about walking through those gardens that brings you back to what cooking is truly about: the season, what is ready, and the honesty of working with what the land gives you at that moment. To bring that philosophy to our table at The Westcliff, along with their wines and produce, is an opportunity I have been looking forward to enormously.’

Dates to diarise are 25 June, 23 September and 3 December 2026. reservations.johannesburg@fourseasons.com

JOHANNESBURG - CAPE TOWN - MAURITIUS

In-store interior design & 3D modelling services.

Photos Flavien Carlod, Baptiste Le Quiniou, non-contractual.

Château Ten Torre

LAGUNE - modular sofa, Designed by Philippe Bouix

APEX - Ottoman, Designed by Sacha Lakic

CESTELLO BOIS - cocktail table, Designed by Gabriel Fedele

UNFOLD - floor lamp, Designed by Alexandre Dubreuil

MATSURI - Ooyashi rug, Designed by Kenzo Takada

DEPARTURES

A place of one’s own

AT BROOKDALE ESTATE IN PAARL, THE NEWLY OPENED OWNERS’ LODGE OFFERS A QUIETER, MORE PERSONAL EXPERIENCE OF THE WINELANDS. BY PAIGE

DORKIN

In recent years, luxury travel has moved beyond bigger, flashier hotel suites. It’s a shift that sees the most coveted stays trading check-in desks for something far more private: the exclusive-use villa – fully staffed and entirely your own. At Brookdale Estate in Paarl, the newly opened Owners’ Lodge captures this shift. Originally conceived as a private getaway for the estate’s owners, the lodge is now open to guests. Overlooking rolling vineyards and framed by the dramatic silhouettes of the Drakenstein Mountains and Paarl Rock, The Owners’ Lodge can accommodate a group of up to eight guests on an all-inclusive basis.

Thoughtfully conceived as an intimate escape for families and friends, it comprises four elegantly appointed en-suite bedrooms complemented by generous, light-filled living spaces. Underfoot, reclaimed oak floors add warmth and texture, while stonework – sourced and repurposed locally –grounds the space in its surroundings.

With a private chef and butler, meals are tailored to guests. Breakfast drifts into long, unhurried lunches and dinners spill out onto the terrace with its far-reaching vineyard views. It’s an experience designed more around mood than itinerary.

While Brookdale’s Manor House offers a more traditional stay, The Owners’ Lodge is entirely self-contained and well suited to extended family travel or celebrations, where privacy and shared space are equally important.

Beyond the lodge, the estate adds further layers of interest. Brookdale’s winemaking philosophy leans into experimentation, notably through its field blends – multiple varietals planted together in a single vineyard and vinified as one, in a revival of an almost-forgotten technique. For a change of scene, The Bistro at Brookdale offers an alternative setting just minutes away.

At a time when luxury travel is increasingly defined by privacy, pace and authenticity, The Owners’ Lodge feels exactly right – a place to settle into, rather than somewhere to stay. brookdale-estate.com

DESIGN

The house of two

MAISON DEUX OPENS AT HYDE PARK CORNER, INTRODUCING SOUTH AFRICA’S FIRST LUXURY DEPARTMENT STORE AND MARC JACOBS CAFÉ.

Hyde Park Corner continues to refine its luxury retail mix with the arrival of Maison Deux, a new concept that brings together international fashion, curated homeware and a café experience in a single space. The opening also marks the debut of South Africa’s first Marc Jacobs Café, adding a distinctive new draw for visitors to the centre.

Maison Deux presents a tightly edited selection of globally recognised fashion houses including Etro, Kenzo, Missoni, Givenchy, Marc Jacobs, Isabel Marant, Stella McCartney and Giuseppe Zanotti. The store also includes the multi-branded Al Capone selection, featuring Moncler, Maison Margiela and the group’s Capone label.

Beyond fashion, the store introduces a considered home and living offering.

Shoppers can explore Etro Home, Lisa Corti, OW London, Missoni Home, Stories of Italy, Zarina Tableware and Dolce & Gabbana Casa, creating a destination that caters to both wardrobe and interior expression.

At the centre of the store is the Marc Jacobs Café inspired by the energy of New York. Designed as a social hub within the retail environment, the café pairs design-led interiors with a curated menu, encouraging visitors to spend more time in the space instead of simply passing through. hydeparkcorner.co.za

MASTER OF MATERIALS

ANATOM SKELETON

TOUCH

WOOD

The textures and tones of native cypress take centre stage indoors and out in a relaxed Californian beach house designed for a family with a passion for surfing.

WORDS MARTIN JACOBS

Working closely with wood whisperer Evan Shively, architect Jonathan Feldman’s design for this Santa Cruz weekend retreat makes the most of Monterey cypress timber. The collaborators incorporated it both indoors and out in rough and polished finishes.

ABOVE A timber ceiling, walls and floor lend the open-plan entertainment space a cosy atmosphere.

‘Large sweeping doors open to connect the living space to the spacious deck, which we fitted with a hot tub and outdoor kitchen, perfect for entertaining family and friends,’ says Feldman.

OPPOSITE PAGE TOP The sundrenched primary bedroom is a study in maximising views, and offers a panoramic vista of Monterey Bay.

OPPOSITE PAGE BOTTOM Monterey cypress dominates in the kitchen, with black soapstone counters enhancing the Scandinavian aesthetic. Glass doors extend the space to an outdoor kitchen ideal for al fresco cooking.

FOR THE HOMEOWNERS of a weekend retreat along Santa Cruz’s coastline, their endless ocean views are rivalled only – yet constantly – by the architecture of their home. ‘I love to lie on the couch and just let my eye trace all the details,’ says the homeowner, of the ongoing battle for his attention between indoors and out. Currently living in Silicon Valley, he was raised in Santa Cruz – a coastal town south of San Francisco – and has strong ties to the land. Stronger still with the sea, for it was in the town’s popular surf breaks that he first learnt to surf. With an endless pull to the ocean and a lifelong connection to his surroundings, it speaks volumes of his home’s design that he has such a resolute desire to spend time indoors. ‘It feels like we’re living inside a fine piece of furniture, crafted by artisans at the top of their field.’

Lead ‘artisan’ is Jonathan Feldman, founder of San Francisco-based practice Feldman Architecture. ‘Our clients were well-versed on the nuances of the site and dreamt of a home that fitted naturally and sustainably into its beachy, eclectic locale,’ he says, recalling the initial creative consultation with the city-based couple, one that included project co-lead Christopher Kurrle. The architects were tasked with designing a four-bedroomed home that should feel like an extension of the land. Maximising Pacific Ocean views was a given; as were ensuring the

IN AN EFFORT TO MAXIMISE THE EFFICIENCY OF THE MILLING PROCESS, EVERY LEVEL OF WOOD GRADE – FROM THE ROUGH TO THE POLISHED – WAS USED IN THE CLADDING.

RIGHT A guest bedroom leads onto the patio and offers views towards the home’s entrance. Interior designer Roman Alonso combined vintage and new furniture: the Nido armchair is by Estudio Persona, the floor lamp by Ignazio Gardella and the Swedish rug by Doris Leslie Blau.

BELOW From the hot tub, the homeowner can enjoy views of the very surf breaks where he learnt to surf. Between the deck and the home’s sea-facing perimeter, landscapers Ground Studio designed a coastal garden that includes loungers and a fire pit. The playful ceramic stools are by Sunja Park for Commune Design.

THE ARCHITECTS WERE TASKED WITH DESIGNING A FOUR-BEDROOMED HOME THAT SHOULD FEEL LIKE AN EXTENSION OF THE LAND.

home’s sensitivity to the scale and aesthetics of its neighbouring structures, and a respect for both nature and craftsmanship. The award-winning project is testimony to Feldman’s creative interpretation of this brief, and his wish to imbue the home with, as he words it, a ‘polished bohemian feel’.

Streetside, entry into the property is between two freestanding structures, the garage and a board room. The latter provides ample storage for the family’s surfboards. With a garage-door wall that folds upwards, it extends onto a patio. ‘We’ve positioned the patio where the sun shines most in the winter, making it a warm, light-filled cloister all year round, protected from the coastal winds,’ explains Kurrle. Complete with outdoor loungers, this space makes the board room’s wet bar a perfect spot for entertaining.

The patio leads into a wood-clad rectangular home, with an openplan kitchen, living and dining room with a glazed front. ‘Large sweeping doors open to connect the living space to the spacious deck, which we fitted with a hot tub and outdoor kitchen perfect for entertaining family and friends,’ adds Feldman. With a reduced surface area, the first floor is home to the primary, its en suite and balcony, the children’s bedroom, and an office.

Nowhere in this project is Feldman’s respect for the marriage of nature with craftsmanship more evident than in the fruits of his collaboration with Evan Shively, founder of Arborica and a sawyer known

THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Craftsmanship shines in the design of the floating staircase that connects the home’s two floors; with the volume of the surrounding homes in mind, Feldman’s design for the upper floor efficiently maximises a smaller surface area, which includes the primary en suite; an outdoor lounge centres around a custom-tiled fireplace by Stan Bitters. The teak table was designed by Alonso’s team, the sofa is by Ten10 and lounge chairs by Garza Marfa.

in the region as a wood whisperer. ‘Evan reclaims and repurposes naturally-fallen, native Californian timber, so we enlisted him to provide the project with locally-sourced interior and exterior cladding,’ says Feldman. ‘Monterey cypress, a robust, resilient, regal wood, is accustomed to the site’s coastal California climate and when left unfinished, weathers to a sophisticated grey.’ In an effort to maximise the efficiency of the milling process, every level of wood grade – from the rough to the polished – was used in the cladding.

Indoors, the cypress has been given a clear treatment, ensuring its warm hue will intensify with time. The resulting cosy ambience equally owes thanks to the creative input of Roman Alonso, cofounder of multidisciplinary studio Commune Design. ‘My goal was to achieve spaces that feel free-spirited but intellectual, casual and highly practical yet fully considered,’ he says. To this end, he’s paired old with new, local with international. Pieces by iconic American furniture makers – Sam Maloof, Greta Magnusson Grossman and Arthur Espenet Carpenter – sit along-

ABOVE Feldman’s cypress cladding continues in the primary bedroom upstairs. The ceiling light is by Serge Mouille, the Grossman lounge chair by Gubi, and the Kaleidoscope rug by Christopher Farr for Commune Design.

side furniture by contemporary designers like Estudio Persona and Doug McCollough, and vintage pieces that include two Gerrit Rietveld Utrecht chairs. Working with curator Allison Harding, Alonso complements his decorating palette with artworks inspired by West Coast surf and skate culture of the 1960s and ’70s.

Much to the homeowners’ delight, the project is a masterclass in pairing considered architecture with complementary interior design and thoughtfully chosen art. Its win in the Beach House category of the Interior Design Best of the Year Awards reflects this. But the home is about so much more for the family, who seek refuge within its confines. ‘We don’t think about the house as a place,’ the husband says. ‘It’s an experience. It’s peace. It feeds our souls.’ 

THE STATE OF TIME

Watches and Wonders, the world’s premier annual luxury watch event, recently took place in Geneva, offering a view of the direction of modern watchmaking.

THIS APRIL, Watches and Wonders once again brought together more than 60 of the world’s leading watchmakers in Geneva, offering a snapshot of the state of horology in 2026. The event remains the most important moment in the watch calendar, where brands define not just their year ahead, but often their broader vision and direction.

This year, rather than competing through spectacle, many brands focused on refinement. Materials were pushed further with clear purpose. Complications were rethought to improve usability. Heritage was revisited with greater discipline.

Here, we highlight a selection of releases that captured that shift across the fair.

ROLEX

REINFORCING ITS CORE THROUGH INCREMENTAL REFINEMENT

Rolex’s releases remain deliberately incremental, focusing on refinements to core models such as the Oyster Perpetual, Daytona and Datejust. While these changes may appear subtle, they carry significant influence across the industry. By reinforcing the strength of its existing designs rather than introducing entirely new ones, Rolex continues to set the standard for consistency and long-term desirability.

PATEK PHILIPPE

EXTENDING ITS TECHNICAL REPERTOIRE

Patek Philippe delivered one of the most technically interesting releases of the fair with the Celestial Ref. 6105G-001, a new Grand Complication featuring sunrise and sunset indications integrated into an already complex astronomical display. This forms part of a wider release that includes anniversary Nautilus models and new complications across the collection. As always, Patek Philippe’s approach is measured, focusing on long-term innovation rather than immediate impact. It reinforces the brand’s position at the highest level of traditional watchmaking. watchmaking.

ULYSSE NARDIN

PUSHING MECHANICAL BOUNDARIES

Ulysse Nardin’s presentation was anchored by the Super Freak, launched at the fair as a radical evolution of its most defining concept. Described as the most complicated time-only watch ever made, it brings together decades of experimentation into a single, highly complex architecture, including a dual tourbillon system and a movement in which almost every component is in motion.

More than a singular technical achievement, the Super Freak reinforces the brand’s longstanding role as a laboratory for innovation, where unconventional engineering and material research are used to challenge the fundamentals of watchmaking.

HUBLOT

BRINGING CHRONOGRAPH ARCHITECTURE TO THE FOREFRONT

Hublot’s showcase centred on the Big Bang Unico ‘Reloaded’, a re-engineered evolution of its flagship chronograph. Rather than introducing a new direction, the brand shifts emphasis towards the movement itself, opening up the dial to reveal the Unico calibre and its column wheel architecture. The result is a more technical and legible expression of the Big Bang, where the chronograph mechanism becomes a central design element. It reinforces Hublot’s longstanding focus on material innovation and bold construction, while making its in-house movement the defining feature of the watch.

PRIVATE TIME

GRAND SEIKO

EMPHASISING PRECISION THROUGH PERFORMANCE

Grand Seiko’s presence marked a clear statement of intent, combining its signature precision with a more robust, sport-driven focus. The Evolution 9 Spring Drive ‘Ushio 300’ diver introduces the brand’s latest Spring Drive architecture into a professional dive watch. Powered by the new Automatic UFA Spring Drive calibre – described as the most accurate spring-driven movement in the world – it reinforces Grand Seiko’s ongoing pursuit of precision at the highest level. Its textured dial, inspired by ocean tides, brings a sense of movement and depth, balancing functionality with the brand’s distinctive approach to surface design. In a field largely defined by Swiss tradition, Grand Seiko offers a different perspective, where technical innovation and natural inspiration unite with quiet confidence.

BVLGARI

REFINING ITS APPROACH TO MODERN WATCH DESIGN

Bvlgari’s latest releases build on its established expertise in ultra-thin watchmaking and architectural design. The Octo Finissimo remains central, with continued refinement of silhouettes and mechanical sophistication. Across the collection, Bvlgari’s strength lies in the consistency of its design language and its ability to balance technical precision with contemporary aesthetics.

JAEGER-LECOULTRE

ADVANCING PRECISION THROUGH INVENTION

Jaeger-LeCoultre’s presentation centred on technical innovation, highlighted by the Hybris Inventiva Gyrotourbillon à Stratosphère. Featuring a triple-axis tourbillon designed to maximise positional precision, it introduces a new Hybris Inventiva line dedicated to breakthrough complications.

This focus on invention continues with the Master Grande Tradition Tourbillon Jumping Date, which revisits a key calibre with a reworked architecture and more open display, while the Reverso Tribute Enamel Hokusai series highlights the maison’s Métiers Rares craftsmanship through intricate miniature enamel work. Together, these releases reflect Jaeger-LeCoultre’s ongoing pursuit of precision, expressed this year through its ‘Valley of Inventions’ theme.

IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN

ADVANCING TECHNICAL INNOVATION WITH MATERIALS AND MECHANICS

IWC delivered one of the most technically compelling watches of the fair with the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Ceralume. By combining ceramic powders with Super-LumiNova pigments into a proprietary luminous ceramic, the case, dial and strap emit light, creating a watch that transforms dramatically between day and night. It’s not simply a visual effect, but a notable advancement in material innovation within watchmaking.

Alongside it, the Perpetual Calendar IWC-ProSet introduces a completely re-engineered, gear-based system that enables forward and backward adjustment via a single crown position, making the calendar easier and more intuitive to set and operate. Together, these releases highlight IWC’s focus on applying technical innovation to enhance usability in complex watchmaking.

CARTIER

DEFINING WATCHMAKING THROUGH FORM

Cartier’s presentation centred on design, reinforcing its position as one of the most form-driven maisons in watchmaking. The Myst de Cartier stands as its most expressive piece, with a flexible, claspless structure that blurs the boundary between watchmaking, jewellery and sculpture. It is a watch that prioritises visual presence and craftsmanship over convention.

At the same time, the return of the Roadster introduces a more grounded evolution. Originally launched in the early 2000s, the model has been refined with improved proportions and ergonomics, bringing it into line with contemporary expectations. Together, these releases highlight Cartier’s ability to operate across extremes, from conceptual design to wearable heritage.

PANERAI

REAFFIRMING ITS CORE IDENTITY

Panerai’s presentation was centred on its Submersible collection, reinforcing the brand’s foundations in professional tool watches. The latest releases emphasise extreme performance, combining robust construction, high water resistance and enhanced legibility with a focus on advanced materials developed for demanding environments. Drawing on its military origins, this approach reflects a continued commitment to functional design, where every element serves a clear purpose.

Across the collection, Panerai expresses its identity through signature elements including the cushion case, crown-protecting bridge and highly legible dials. The result is a presentation grounded in utility and presence, demonstrating that its distinctive design language remains most effective when applied with clarity and purpose.

TAG HEUER

SHARPENING ITS CORE THROUGH MONACO

TAG Heuer’s presence was anchored by the Monaco collection, with the Monaco Evergraph representing a significant technical milestone. Featuring an entirely new movement architecture designed to advance chronograph performance, it reinforces the brand’s longstanding focus on one of its defining categories.

Alongside it, the Monaco Chronograph refines the original square case with improved ergonomics and contemporary detailing. The focus is clear: TAG Heuer continues to build on its core identity through one of the most recognisable designs in modern watchmaking.

TUDOR

DEMONSTRATING THE EVOLUTION OF A CENTURY Tudor’s presentation in Geneva was defined by the introduction of the Monarch, a model that reflects the full extent of the brand’s development over the past century. Reintroducing a historical name, the watch combines a classically inspired aesthetic – most notably its finely faceted case, matching bracelet and distinctive, papyrustoned dial – with a level of execution made possible by Tudor’s advanced manufacturing capabilities.

The watch is powered by a Manufacture calibre unique to the model, combining traditional finishing with Master Chronometer certification, reflecting Tudor’s progress in both performance and precision. More than a single release, the Monarch stands as a synthesis of Tudor’s past and present, demonstrating how far the brand has evolved while maintaining a clear and accessible approach to watchmaking.

PERSONALISED LUXURY

Range Rover has set a new modern luxury benchmark with the introduction of its SV Bespoke commissioning service, offering clients enhanced levels of personalisation and refinement.

AVAILABLE ON AUTOBIOGRAPHY and

SV models, Range Rover’s exclusive in-house commissioning programme, SV Bespoke, gives clients access to an almost limitless range of colours, materials and finishes in pursuit of a vehicle that reflects their personality like never before.

SV BESPOKE IN DETAIL

With the SV Curated Bespoke Palette, clients can explore up to 230 options for exterior colours in satin and gloss finishes, while the SV Bespoke Match to Sample service has an almost infinite capability to match any colour.

Clients can express their personality with a new level of customisation and personalisation inside, including up to 391 material colourways and the ability to mix and match colours and materials to suit their tastes.

In addition, personalised embroidery is offered, alongside custom veneers for the door panels and consoles, plus personalised treadplates for truly unique creations.

Eight new combinations of the Range Rover script are available, crafted with precious metals and exclusive and distinctive

new finishes, for a total of 22 possible combinations, depending on the insert and surround. The inner script badge can also be specified to match Bespoke body or roof colours – giving the opportunity for never-before-seen configurations.

SV BESPOKE GLOBAL COMMISSIONING SUITES

While virtual commissioning is, of course, always available to help clients curate the perfect combination of finishes and features, Range Rover offers a series of Commissioning Suites around the world, spanning London, Antwerp, Munich, Vancouver, Beijing, Tokyo and Dubai, with five more to come globally, including additional suites for clients in the Middle East.

Clients follow a unique and comprehensive seven-step creation process that considers colours, themes, SV exclusive options, materials, veneers and finishes, customisations and personalisation. Each finished vehicle promises to be as unique as its creator, although curated design combinations chosen by the Range Rover design team are available to help clients make their dreams a reality.

Clients are invited to begin their Bespoke journey via their preferred Range Rover retailer or by contacting bespoke@jaguarlandrover.com. 

THIS PAGE Opt for either clams or mussels, served in a white wine or marinara sauce at Arlecchino. It couldn’t get more Italian when paired with angel hair pasta.

OPPOSITE PAGE The addition of capers and roasted tomatoes to Cafe Sofi’s grilled calamari makes it distinctly Mediterranean.

A new wave of SouthernEuropean-inspired restaurants in Cape Town begs the question: What’s behind our enduring romance with Mediterranean cuisine?

WORDS MARTIN JACOBS

THE MEDITERRANEAN AFFAIR

THOSE OF US WITH A PASSION for dining out may have noticed an upswing in restaurant posts from foodies, influencers and digital nomads in Cape Town in recent months. You’ll know the ones: with a Negroni Sbagliato or Champagne coupe in hand, they’re living their best lives in restaurants that channel the seabreeze swagger of Ionian hotspots, the Belle Époque elegance of French brasseries, the bravado of Basque tabernas, and more. In fact, they’re in Cape Town – a handful of Mediterranean-inspired restaurants newly opened in the Mother City. What explains our endless love affair with such cuisine?

The team behind Dineplan, a local restaurant reservation platform listing more than 2 000 eateries nationwide, believes it’s about a return to favourites. With data from half a million users’ reservations, Dineplan is well positioned to know. ‘With fewer nights out feeling affordable, diners are choosing certainty,’ says Georgie Jadrijevich, Dineplan’s marketing manager. ‘A night out now needs to feel assured.’ Jadrijevich suggests that ordering beloved dishes offers such assurance. Greek or Italian, Spanish or French, and even Portuguese, these cuisines feel familiar, tried and tested, comforting. Collectively, we’ve eaten them since childhood, even cooked them ourselves.

Yet this food is about more than certainty; it’s about emotion. ‘Mediterranean food has always spoken to me because of its effortless generosity. It’s simple, abundant and made to be shared. It encourages you to linger at the table, to pass plates, to refill glasses, to talk and laugh without watching the clock,’ says Natasha Sideris, restaurateur and founder of Tashas Group. ‘That way of eating feels perfectly suited to Cape Town. People here appreciate long lunches, good wine, sunshine, and meals that feel like an experience rather than a transaction.’

Of Greek heritage, Sideris, who has lived in Dubai for over a decade, was recently in town to oversee the finishing touches to Arlecchino, her Italian restaurant in Sea Point, which opened in December. It follows the launch of Cafe Sofi, another Tashas Group eatery in the Cape Town City Bowl. Both are global firsts for the group. ‘Cafe Sofi is deeply personal to Savva (Sideris’s brother) and me – it’s a tribute to our mother, Sophia. She shaped everything I understand about food itself. She cooked instinctively, without fuss or pretence. For her, food was about warmth, generosity and making people feel truly welcome. Nothing was overworked or overthought; it was honest, flavourful and meant to be shared.’

Inspired by her mother, Sideris works closely with Jill Okkers, culinary director for Tashas Group, to create every dish. ‘Jill and I have a deep respect for Mediterranean traditions, but we’re not interested in copying them exactly. For us, authenticity, is about

TOP LEFT South African interior designer Tristan du Plessis conceptualised the layered interiors of Amura. LEFT Spanish chef Ángel León’s smoked Cape salmon is presented on a potato latke surrounded by buttermilk sauce.

ABOVE ‘Iberian and Mediterranean cooking was historically born from respect and proximity to product,’ says Luke Lawrence Barry of Amura’s plankton risotto. ‘When something arrives from the sea that morning, you don’t overcomplicate it. The complexity should be invisible.’

TOP RIGHT ‘Cafe Sofi’s interiors are layered and sentimental, slightly eclectic, creating a feeling that you’ve stepped into someone’s home rather than a restaurant,’ says Sideris.

RIGHT Sideris describes Arlecchino as outward-looking and spirited. ‘It’s bold, expressive and full of energy. There’s more colour, more vibrancy, a stronger sense of theatre. The food still draws from Mediterranean roots, but the tone is playful and confident.’

‘FOR US, AUTHENTICITY IS ABOUT HONOURING THE SPIRIT OF A DISH RATHER THAN ACCURATELY REPLICATING IT.’ NATASHA SIDERIS, FOUNDER, TASHAS GROUP

honouring the spirit of a dish rather than accurately replicating it. We work with local produce, adjust richness where needed, and aim for a balance that feels right for our guests.’

Cafe Sofi’s menu is, in Sideris’s words, ‘nostalgic and comforting, inspired by dishes that feel as though they’ve been lovingly passed down through generations’. Arlecchino, by contrast, is more theatrical; its name Italian for harlequin, its interiors a contemporary mash-up of old-school Milanese and Venetian charm. Mirrored diamonds and ruffled ceiling lights nod to harlequin costumes, complemented by mosaic and terrazzo flooring reminiscent of ristoranti past. The menu has its own theatrics. Tiramisu arrives deconstructed and is assembled tableside by a waitron unsure which phone camera to look at first – pure Insta-reel theatre.

At Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, executive chef Luke Lawrence Barry believes Mediterranean cuisine’s timeless appeal stems in part from the honour paid to its ingredients. ‘It’s a celebration of fresh, seasonal produce, good olive oil, seafood, herbs, grains and vegetables. The flavours come from quality ingredients rather than heavy technique, which makes the food feel honest and adaptable across cultures,’ he says. ‘Mediterranean cuisine is widely associated with longevity and wellbeing, yet it never feels like “diet food”. The balance of fats, vegetables, legumes, and lean proteins delivers nourishment while still being deeply satisfying.’

The hotel’s recently opened Amura restaurant, helmed by Spanish chef Ángel León, embodies this philosophy. Michelinstarred León hails from the Spanish province of Cádiz and brings to Amura a wealth of Iberian culinary knowledge. ‘The idea behind Amura was to create a dialogue between two ports: Cádiz and Cape Town. Two oceans. Two histories. One philosophy,’ explains Barry. ‘We didn’t want to open a Spanish restaurant. We wanted to open a Mediterranean way of understanding seafood, hospitality and time.’

Yet Mediterranean assumptions aren’t necessarily matched with equal ease in the Cape. Barry speaks frankly about one of the restaurant’s first seafood hurdles. ‘With two oceans, such powerful waters and extraordinary biodiversity, we expected a stronger culture of genuinely fresh fish similar to what we experience every day in the Mediterranean. In Spain there is a deep-rooted culture of fresh seafood. You know who caught it, when it was landed, how it was handled. That transparency is part of the culinary identity,’ he says. ‘Here, for us, it has been more challenging than expected to find truly fresh fish – fish that has not been previously frozen, fish that is not imported, fish that reflects immediate proximity to the sea. That has been one of our biggest challenges. But challenges are also opportunities. It has forced us to build closer relationships with suppliers and fishermen, and to educate and push for higher standards of handling and immediacy.’

Such challenges, even at esteemed establishments like Belmond’s Mount Nelson Hotel, reveal a chef’s mettle and push restaurants toward excellence. Mediterranean cuisine has always been about connection – between restaurateur and fisherman, chef and diner. Cape Town’s newest Med-inspired eateries are no exception. With generous plates, lingering lunches, and a culture of sharing, they offer more than meals; they offer moments, memories, and a taste of the sun-drenched coasts diners dream about. 

ADD THESE NEW RESTAURANTS TO YOUR MED-INSPIRED HITLIST

Arlecchino

16 Regent Road, Sea Point arlecchino.co

Cafe Sofi

2 Park Road, Gardens cafesofi.com

Amura, Mount Nelson Hotel

76 Orange Street, Gardens belmond.com/hotels/africa/south-africa/cape-town/ belmond-mount-nelson-hotel/dining

Le Bistrot de JAN, InterContinental Table Bay

Cape Town

Quay 6, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront janonline.com/le-bistrot-de-jan-cape-town

Figo by Kove Collection

1 Church Road, Sea Point kovecollection.co.za/figo

Le Grand Domaine Cantina by Chefs Warehouse

7 Church Street, Stellenbosch chefswarehouse.co.za/cantina

Madeleines à la Giles at Le Bistrot de JAN.

Multifaceted art exhibitions inspire at La Motte Wine Estate.

ART CONVERSATIONS

THE SEASONAL ART EXHIBITIONS at La Motte Wine Estate offer an interactive experience that invites guests to participate, while also facilitating a dialogue with both the natural landscape as well as historical precedents, embracing the influence and inspiration of both place and legacy, of tradition and reinterpretation.

La Motte’s association with acclaimed South African landscape artist, JH Pierneef is well recorded. Other renowned artists such as Maggie Laubser and Irma Stern also turned to the landscape for inspiration like he did, developing visual languages of their own.

The ‘Van Horison tot Horison’ (‘From Horizon to Horizon’ in Afrikaans) exhibition in the La Motte Ateljee acknowledges the historical importance of these masters by inviting contemporary artists to respond and enter the dialogue using both the landscape and visual language of their predecessors, while shaping their own evolving narratives.

The exhibition presents 14 contemporary artists in dialogue with the past and present, landscape and representation, image, text and sound. Pierneef’s structured geometry emerges in the

precise, composed work of Michael Amery and in the stylised trees of Frances Wedepohl and Joshua Miles. Laubser’s approach to colour echoes in Rentia Retief’s palette, while Stern’s expressive strokes are found in the brushwork of Jenny Parsons and Thea Burger. The La Motte Ateljee experience also features Emma Willemse’s sculptural boat installation – accompanied by paper pulp drawings – in the centre of the gallery. Going beyond the visual and tactile, sound artist Conrad Oosthuizen transforms Lina Spies’s poem Blydskap into an auditory experience, adding another sensory dimension by way of sonic exploration.

‘Van Horison tot Horison’ affirms the South African landscape as a continuing source of inspiration, one that invites ongoing rendering, response and renewal from one horizon to the next.

Celebrating the La Motte family’s passion for art, the Ateljee is a creative space to engage with artworks, artists and makers. Guests are invited to enjoy the exhibition, but also to meet the makers, experience the creative processes and even join in the process with a captivating schedule of workshops that are open for reservation. la-motte.com

FYN’s very own beverage alchemist, Jennifer Hugé, has a unique take on terroir.

WORDS RENATE ENGELBRECHT

SENSORY STORYTELLING

THE FYN GROUP’S BEVERAGE AND SERVICE

DIRECTOR, Jennifer Hugé’s take on terroir offers guests a taste of the land through authentic storytelling and indigenous ingredients. She’s recently won the 2026 Relais & Châteaux Women of the Year Award, and with good reason: her passion and precision when it comes to beverage creation is unmatched.

When Hugé talks wine, nature dominates her descriptions as she translates hints on the nose and notes on the palate. For instance, she describes Kruger Wines’ unique Chardonnay as akin to ‘tasting the Sutherland stars’. Kanonkop’s 2002 Paul Sauer

Estate Wine reminds her of walking in a French forest just as the rain starts to fall. While her French heritage is often evident in her descriptions and her accent, her love for South Africa and its terroir is tangible.

It’s not just wine that excites her, though. In fact, she’s recently found a new appreciation for cocktails, mini ones in particular. After 23 years in South Africa, Jennifer remembers how, back in the day, people would start their evening with a glass of local MCC. ‘Now, 80% of guests order a cocktail instead. The world of beverages is not just wine. There is so much that you can enjoy with food, and it can even be non-alcoholic.’

It’s through clever fermentation techniques, unique cocktails and indigenous ingredients that she believes she can showcase as much of the South African terroir as possible. ‘Not only from the fruit, but from the fynbos, from the tree.’ By presenting them in smaller glasses, she allows her guests to explore more options.

It’s travel that initially sparked the idea of mini-cocktails. During a recent visit to the renowned Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City, Jennifer experienced tinier cocktail versions for the first time. ‘I thought, “Ah, this is such a great idea! Then you can try a bit of everything without getting too drunk!”’

Although Hugé enjoys every kind of beverage – from wine and saké to cocktails – she’s always trying to evolve her offering. Her quest to learn more about Japanese saké (FYN Restaurant now offers the intriguing Saké Journey) and her interest in exciting collaborations and access to on-site chefs’ gardens have allowed Jennifer to explore different ingredients with an alchemical precision. Local ingredients like baobab, Caperitif (produced by AA Badenhorst in the Swartland region) and Inzalo (a local agave, wooded in a Pinotage barrel) are only a few of the elements that often serve as inspiration for her drinks.

Saké in its own right has opened a whole new world of possibilities for innovative flavour combinations and staying ahead of trends in the South African beverage scene.

Of course, Jennifer’s passion for indigenous ingredients and the use of seasonal produce – even in the preparation of

OPPOSITE PAGE ‘The Last Word’ is a timeless cocktail made with maraschino liqueur, green chartreuse and local gin.

TOP FYN Restaurant’s décor creates a warm, intimate, somewhat theatrical dining space.

RIGHT A trio of Jennifer’s mini-cocktails coming to life.

ULTIMATELY,

HUGÉ’S AIM IS TO ALLOW PEOPLE TO EXPERIENCE THEIR OWN EMOTIONS THROUGH THE BEVERAGES SHE SERVES.

beverages – tie in well with FYN Restaurant’s latest feat of being selected as one of four Relais & Châteaux restaurants to partake in a sustainability pilot in collaboration with UNESCO.

Unsurprisingly, the drinks menu at FYN Restaurant boasts a couple of mini-cocktails for guests to discover. The ‘Leaf’ cocktail under FYN’s Elemental section features a clever combination of saké, shiso, Caperitif, elderflower espuma, Tequila and fig-leaf oil. The ‘Fire Blossom’ is a beautiful blend of local agave spirit, raspberry and cacao shrub, coffee-bean-infused vermouth and Campari. And, the ‘Flower & Grain’ – infused with travel influences and indigenous flavours – is also a hit on the menu list.

The mini-cocktail offering – currently only served at FYN Restaurant, but soon also at the group’s new Arum Restaurant at Boschendal – caters to those who want to explore more while consuming smaller amounts of alcohol. Essentially, Arum will offer a whole new world of local ingredients for Hugé to experiment with. From fruit, trees and grains to a much-anticipated mini-Martini, there’s a lot to look forward to.

Once she sets her mind on something, Hugé often collaborates with those who know their specific trade well. She’s recently collaborated with a brewer for a quirky-looking, local beer that is available for tasting at Arum. In addition, she also worked with two well-known winemakers to produce a red wine, as well as a soon-to-be-launched Cap Classique. While, for Hugé, wine is emotive, the same goes for her minicocktails and the flavour combinations that often evoke nostalgia through the taste of terroir. Ultimately, her aim is to allow people to experience their own emotions through the beverages she serves; for them to go on their own journeys and experience the land she has come to love. 

ABOVE Jennifer Hugé, Service and Beverage Director and mini-cocktail meister, wants to offer her guests an emotional experience and the chance to ‘travel through taste’.

TOP The ‘Fire Blossom’ combines Inzalo agave, raspberry and cacao shrub, mesquite-bean-infused vermouth and Campari.

Batteries have broadened the options for people looking to play in a sandpit marked ‘individual’. The Class of ’26 specialises in new thinking, clever design and –thankfully – exciting driving.

WORDS PETER FROST

THE INDIVIDUALS

BACK WHEN electric motoring first appeared on radars, the collective reaction was a mixture of ‘the death of excitement’ and ‘the age of beige’. In the short decade since, the opposite has proven true. Traditional internal combustion engines have in many cases partnered with, rather than been replaced by, batteries, to offer new levels of acceleration, efficiency and sophistication. And battery technology has developed apace, with a range of 600km the new standard, combined with a targeted charge time of under 30 minutes. It’s an excellent time to be an enthusiast as well as a conservationist.

PORSCHE 911 TURBO S HYBRID

No car better represents the evolution of motoring quite like

Porsche’s flagship 911 Turbo. Launched in 1974 as a no-compromise track weapon aimed at beating the V12s of the era, it morphed into ever more road-sensible iterations, carrying with it the fashion and technical advancements of the times. And just as the turbocharger was an innovation in the face of V12 brute power in 1974, so the 2026 model uses hybrid technology to up the performance ante once again. Job done, unreservedly. Where the original produced 191kW to get the car to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds, today’s car pushes out a scarcely believable 523kW and manages the ton in 2.5 seconds. All the while being quieter, safer, more reliable and considerably more efficient. Visually, 911 Turbo tracks the times; first an exercise in excess with its iconic ‘whale-tail’ rear spoiler that became the

even bigger ‘tea tray’ in 1978, then quietly integrated into the rear body as technology allowed for aerodynamic automation and the 2000s demanded more restraint. The latest car is powerfully built but suggestive of its abilities, rather than shouting them from the rooftops.

And ability it has. As a technological tour de force it’s hard to fault. Twin turbos reduce lag to almost nothing and the compact 1.9kW battery up front is more of a supercapacitor than a storage tank, designed to charge and discharge extremely quickly. It provides immediate bursts of power and then recovers that energy almost immediately during braking or through the exhaust system. It’s not a plug-in hybrid, not even an EV. Clever – and devastatingly quick.

Porsche’s 911 Turbo S has gone hybrid, adding F1 technology to a package that promises lightning acceleration and seamless power delivery. Spoiler alert – it’s not a plug-in. The Cabriolet version uses magnesium for the roof structure, allowing for 300km/h motoring without ballooning.

LEXUS RZ 600E F SPORT PERFORMANCE

Lexus has been, to hijack a phrase, ‘on a journey’, transitioning from a flagship brand to an innovation hub. Part of that innovation exercise is swimming in hitherto unchartered waters, such as white-knuckle hot-hatches, which the latest hot RZ most definitely is. The regular RZ has just been introduced to South Africa, Lexus’ first full electric car, and the 500e version leans into that fluid, elegant seamlessness that Lexus does so well. The 600e F-Sport Performance, however, shouts rather than whispers, offering 313kW from the batteries and a 0-100km/h time of 4.4 seconds. Quick certainly, but really it’s about the visuals.

Carbon-fibre splitter, aggressive turning vanes, carbon hood bulge with nostril-flaring vents, two rear wings, dropped ride height, massive 21-inch matte black Enkei alloy wheels and six-piston aluminium monoblock callipers finished in signature Lexus blue. In Neutrino Gray it looks fantastic, those black and blue accents announcing its intent in no uncertain terms. Mother company Toyota has likely realised from the success of the hard-

charging GRs that there’s an appetite and admiration for wellengineered Japanese cruise missiles that look the part.

Under the tribal markings, the technology is cutting edge. A new, battery-friendly chassis breaks ground and the car sees the return of drive-by-wire steering, first introduced by Infiniti in 2014. There is no mechanical connection between steering wheel and wheels; instead, electronic sensors and motors read the driver’s inputs and physically turn the wheels. Partnered with a yoke steering wheel (like a gaming console) it’s all kinds of Star Wars. A 150-degree lock-to-lock turning range (so no hand-overhand turning) means in town only micro adjustments are needed to change direction. It takes some getting used to but, over time, adds to the sense of next-century calm, fewer inputs, less fuss, no vibration and more of a focus on seamless driving.

The Lexus RZ yoke steering wheel is linked to a drive-bywire system. There is no mechanical connection to the wheels; instead, computers turn driver inputs into direction and angle. Welcome to the future.

THE VOLVO TRIPLETS: VOLVO EX90, EX60 AND ES90

Volvo’s full-sized luxury SUV EX90, luxury sedan ES90 and fivedoor mid-sized SUV EX60 are testimony to the strategy Volvo laid out years ago, their cars carefully designed to mirror existing models. So EX90 looks like an updated XC90, similarly EX60 and ES90.

Certainly the cars are excellence wrapped in style, technology and safety at the forefront, with ranges beyond 600km and charging times well below the norm. But for original thinkers, it’s the style that will see the Scandinavians over the finish line. T. Jon Mayer’s exterior clarity is unmatched, his designs of both ES and EX90 a masterclass in less-is-more. The inspiration was

the various spaces Swedes call sanctuaries – saunas, country cabins, quiet rooms. A lack of clutter, the elevation of simplicity over complexity, the value of an organic form over a hard, computer-generated crease, all were valuable elements.

It’s been a while coming, but Volvo’s lineup now has a cohesive shape and represents global best-practice for electric motoring. Fortunate indeed that South Africa shares the spoils.

Volvo’s electric future has well and truly arrived with the ES90 sedan (below) and EX90 SUV (bottom), flagshipping the range. However, in South Africa the marque’s EX60, also fully electric, is expected to be the big seller.

ON THE FAST TRACK

South Africa has its fair share of motorsport legends. Another is loading, and she’s just 16. Northcliff local Chloe Stuart discusses money in sport, staying clearheaded and batting away questions about lipstick and favourite colours.

WORDS PETER FROST

ONCE I’M IN MY HELMET nobody cares about lipstick or favourite colours, they care about performance, so I don’t say hold my beer, I say hold my mascara.’

Chloe Stuart sounds far wiser than her 16 years might suggest. But then the Formula Vee rookie title holder needs to have a rod of iron running through her to succeed on the track – and for resolve and determination to be second nature to her.

But mostly, like Scheckter, Van der Linde, Binder and Jackson before her, it’s about skill and aptitude. From the age of seven, when she stepped into a kart for the first time (her father is endurance karting racer Barry Stuart), her ability was obvious for all to see, with gender having nothing to do with her innate sense of speed and strategy.

Her journey traces through SSS Prokart Midgets, F200 and F300 classes, Formula M and Formula Vee, where she finished her debut season as Rookie of the Year. This year, she’s in the BMW M-Performance NA Cup, Class D, racing with support from Pablo Clark Racing. The future looks good.

She’s gracious when discussing all that success and ability. ‘I had a coach, Claudio Piazza Musso, who gave me a great tip for my starts in the shifter karts. I started in sixth and catapulted to the front by turn one – even I got a fright.’

There’s school, of course, and the inevitable round of PR and marketing gladhanding, because, at all levels, motorsport is no longer cheap, greenbacks and branding now as important as talent.

Happily, Stuart seems to be rich in both, winning friends and influencers everywhere.

‘Everyone knows how expensive motorsport can be and how much of a challenge it is to succeed with prices so high, so I’ve

learnt to always remember the whole reason I am racing, which is out of my love and passion for my sport. My job is not only to perform well on track but also to represent my sponsors professionally and to give them something meaningful in return.’

It’s her ability, age and gender certainly, but also ‘a few good ideas’. Such as a fragrance range and an interest in classic cars,

OPPOSITE On the track since she was seven, the 16-year-old is currently competing in the BMW M-Performance NA Cup, supported by Pablo Clark Racing.

BELOW The track star has an interest in classic cars, restoring and modifying icons of yesteryear.

now folded into her love of all things automotive. Classic Cars by Chloe reaches back, Racer Girl smells like contemporary success.

‘I’m working on a couple of classic car projects at the moment. We have two Karmann Ghia projects. One we’re doing as a basic restoration to flip for a profit and to use that profit to build up a rat-mobile based on a rusted Karmann Ghia shell that we found.’

Rat-mobile? Stuart laughs. ‘A custom car designed to look deliberately unfinished, worn-down, rusty. The vibe is early hot rods from the 1940s and 1950s.’

Clearly Stuart’s focus is on four wheels, always. Racing and hot rods yes, but also what’s new and exceptional. What catches her eye in the latest crop of tearaway road stars?

‘Currently? That would have to be the BMW M2. It sounds unbelievable and has a crazy top end.’ And reaching back – that classic car obsession again – she’d love a Ferrari F40. ‘An absolute

ABOVE Chloe Stuart will continue doing what she loves the most for as long as she can and at every opportunity.

masterpiece; it’s a car that will go down in history as one of the world’s greatest.’

In an age of aimless Alphas and dizzying work options, many drying up, Stuart’s laser focus is a tonic. AI isn’t going to win Le Mans, even if it helps her telemetry reading skills (which are pretty rock solid, say her engineers). Racing is visceral, archaic even, a simple battle of wills underscored by rock-solid resolve.

‘My goal is to create a professional career for myself in racing, where I can earn a living by doing the thing I love most, in any opportunity that may come.’

Probably right up front. ‘Bravery is the most powerful thing in a racing car’, she suggests. Pull over everyone, determined champion coming through. 

TIME TO PAUSE

In the heart of Sandton, where the pace of business rarely slows down, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel stands apart as a true oasis.

AT FAIRLAWNS BOUTIQUE HOTEL, an elegant retreat set within manicured gardens that feels worlds apart from the city’s energy, time softens. The atmosphere invites you to pause, to wander, and to simply breathe out.

The hotel’s 41 suites are defined by their generous proportions and individual character. No two are alike. Each space blends thoughtful design with carefully curated art, creating a sense of discovery that unfolds with every stay. This is not uniform luxury; it is personal, expressive and deeply considered.

Guiding this vision is Managing Director Michael Kewley, whose meticulous eye ensures that every detail, from design to art placement, contributes to a cohesive yet distinctive experience.

Culinary excellence is woven seamlessly into the Fairlawns experience. Guests can savour refined dishes at the acclaimed Amuse Bouche restaurant, where fine dining is both precise and imaginative. For more relaxed moments, the terrace offers a beautiful setting for sundowners. And at Tea in the Woods, guests can enjoy artisanal teas and delicate treats.

Beyond its interiors, Fairlawns is a place to explore. Pathways lead through lush greenery and quiet corners invite reflection.

The award-winning Balinese-inspired spa completes the five-star offering. Designed as a sanctuary within a sanctuary, the spa presents a curated menu of bespoke massages and signature rituals.

From deeply restorative full-body therapies to precisionfocused treatments, every experience is tailored with quiet expertise. Facilities include a serene yoga studio, sauna, steam room and a heated indoor swimming pool, all coming together to create a seamless, holistic journey of renewal

Yet what truly defines Fairlawns is its people. There is a genuine passion for guests, a deep-rooted culture of care, and an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional service. This is luxury that feels warm, intuitive and sincere.

It’s no surprise that one stay is rarely enough. Guests return, time and again, drawn not only by the setting but by the feeling it leaves behind. Welcome to the Fairlawns family. fairlawns.co.za

ON THE RIVER OF

KINGS

Recently voted second-best hotel in the world, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok is an urban sanctuary offering an impressive setting and an abundance of renowned Thai hospitality.

WORDS SUSAN NEWHAM-BLAKE

ADIM TABLE LAMP ILLUMINATES a coupe glass filled with honey-coloured liquid. Care has been taken in the making of this cocktail: a marigold, covered in a spray of gold dust, floats on the surface. I’m sitting in a leather booth at the BKK Social Club at the highly acclaimed Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok. This is no ordinary bar. Gilded arches and rose-gold columns reflect off the dark marble bar, the mirrored backdrop displaying an impressive kaleidoscope of spirits.

It’s what you’d expect from a bar that has made it onto both The World’s and Asia’s Best 50 Bars lists, headed by esteemed bartender Philip Bischoff. He says he wanted to create a social hot spot, a kind of big living room for the local community, glamorous, vibrant and memorable. In that he has succeeded.

While sipping the Mexican-inspired cocktail Dia de Muertos, made with Roku Gin, Amaro Braulio, Absinthe, Bénédictine D.O.M, Lime and Champagne, an explosion of light and sound erupts outside. Everyone stands up and rushes out, leaving their drinks and bags behind. Away from the air-conditioned bar, the night air is hot and thick. We walk along the hotel’s canals with their floating lotus flowers and head towards the Chao Phraya River. A boat is shooting fireworks into the night sky, dramatic enough to put any suburban New Year’s Eve party to shame. Except it’s not New Year’s. The barman later explains that there’s a wedding at the hotel next door and the boat and fireworks are part of the ceremony.

ABOVE Aesthetically-pleasing water features are a hallmark of the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok, echoing its riverside location.

OPPOSITE PAGE The Chao Phraya River, also known as the ‘River of Kings’, flows through Bangkok and represents the lifeblood of this dynamic city.

I’d only checked into the Four Seasons Hotel Bankgok that morning but I’d grown accustomed to the surprises that come with the territory. Some, like the fireworks, are dramatic and sensorial, others take a quieter approach. That morning’s checkin was a calming balm after travelling from the airport through the noisy and congested city. Thai hospitality is well known, a renowned benchmark for setting standards. Warm, understated, thoughtful. I was met in the hotel lobby by two people in traditional Thai attire, heads bowed, offering softly spoken greetings and a tray of jasmine tea and a cooling hand towel. The lobby is an experience in itself – high ceilings, statement art pieces and water features that echo the riverside setting. There are high expectations placed on a hotel that recently won the number two spot on the World’s Best 50 Hotels list, but it’s clear the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River will not disappoint. So much of a hotel experience can be attributed to location, and this is certainly true of this establishment. Positioned along the banks of the Chao Phraya River, the

THE LOBBY IS AN EXPERIENCE IN ITSELF – HIGH CEILINGS, STATEMENT ART PIECES AND WATER FEATURES THAT ECHO THE RIVERSIDE SETTING.

water has a calming effect that permeates the entire space, from the courtyards and hotel rooms to the restaurants and rimflow swimming pools. The Chao Phraya is Thailand’s principal river, stretching 372km from the central plains to the Gulf of Thailand. Known as the ‘River of Kings’, it acts as a crucial transportation, irrigation and scenic artery, with iconic landmarks on its banks. Because of its river location, there’s no need to grapple with taxis and city traffic to get to Bangkok’s most desirable destinations. The hotel conveniently offers a complimentary shuttle boat service every half an hour. Close to the river’s edge is Wat Arun, known to be Thailand’s most beautiful temple with its iconic spires richly decorated in colourful porcelain. Across the river, you can explore the Grand Palace, which served as the original residence of the kings of Thailand (it also houses the famous Emerald Buddha). Next door, the Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho is a breathtaking 46-metre gold-plated statue not to be missed. Wat Pho is also home to Thailand’s largest collection of Buddha statues and is the birthplace of traditional Thai massage.

Aside from the riverbank delights, Charoen Krung Road, where the hotel is situated, extends through one of the city’s most culturally rich neighbourhoods and is cited as Bangkok’s oldest and first paved road. Once the heart of Bangkok’s commercial activity, Charoen Krung has become a vibrant arts district, featuring lively street art, contemporary galleries and hip cafés.

The area is also a paradise for food lovers, placing guests at the heart of its vibrant culinary scene. Though you don’t have to venture far to enjoy the food for which Thailand is so renowned.

At Four Seasons, there’s breakfast at Riva del Fiume overlooking the river, where the smell of freshly baked pastries and artisanal coffee permeates the morning air. For an elevated dining experience, chef Andrea Accordi’s refined Italian menu takes you on a journey through the flavours of the season served against a picturesque riverside backdrop.

OPPOSITE PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM TOP High ceilings, dramatic light features and statement art pieces invite you to browse the ground floor of the hotel; cocktails, such as Dia de Muertos, are a luxurious affair at the BKK Social Club; the award-winning BKK Social Club at the Four Seasons Bangkok is a destination on its own.

TOP LEFT TO RIGHT The courtyard at the Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok is a tranquil sanctuary. Designed by Jean-Michel Gathy, it features flowing water elements, lush greenery and artistic, geometric landscaping; Riva del Fiume offers an elevated Italian dining experience.

The hotel is also home to Yu Ting Yuan, a Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant, where exquisite dim sum and multi-course tasting menus are presented in a striking, gallery-inspired setting. On the tasting menu, you can enjoy double-boiled abalone with conpoy, morel mushroom and baby cabbage; steamed crab claw with Kristal caviar; stir-fried Hokkaido scallops with shrimp roe, lily bulbs and sweet peas; and imperial fried rice with lobster and crab meat in XO sauce.

For those eager to explore Bangkok’s legendary street food scene, the concierge team curates personalised food tours where you can discover local favourites at the bustling stalls of Chinatown (Yaowarat Road) or venture to Banthat Tong Road, a vibrant hub of authentic Thai street food and traditional eateries.

After journeying outside the hotel, it’s always a pleasure to return. In the serene Palm Courtyard, a 35-metre fitness pool offers more than just a place to swim; it’s a sanctuary of relaxation and wellness. Drawing inspiration from the tropical allure of Thailand’s island destinations, the courtyard is lined with lush palm trees evoking the tranquil atmosphere of a coconut-strewn paradise. Here comfortable poolside loungers and private cabanas offer the perfect way to relax while enjoying stunning waterfront views.

At the Urban Wellness Centre, guests are invited to slow down and reconnect mind and body through holistic spa rituals and guided mindfulness practices. There’s the Singing Bowl Meditation, where resonant tones foster calm and mental clarity. For a deeper reset, the Traditional Thai Facial Massage offers a timeless ritual using Luk Pra Kob balls and herbal blends passed down through generations to detoxify, tone and restore the skin. If you’re more on the active side, the Ice Bath experience complements a Muay Thai session.

While there’s lots to marvel at in this hotel, it’s the rooms that I came to love the most. The deluxe river view room is generously sized at 50m2 and, true to its name, offers beautiful views of Chao Phraya River. Fine Thai silk, faux ostrich leather and luxurious marble give the room an elegant, calm and understated feel. The bathroom is particularly noteworthy with its separate tub and rain shower. The mini bar really is your very own bar, with instructions on how to create some of BKK Social Club’s cocktails using the premium craft spirits.

Standing at the floor-to-ceiling glass window of my room, cocktail in hand, nine-floors below I see longtail boats ferry people home. A fishing boat bobs on the current. The sky, hazy from heat and humidity, turns pink as the sun, a ball of orange, slowly drops behind the high-rise buildings on the opposite side of the river. This feels like the only way to experience Bangkok.

TOP TO BOTTOM The deluxe river view rooms are generously sized at 50m2 and provide beautiful views of the Chao Phraya River; Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Yu Ting Yuan offers dim sum and multi-course tasting menus presented in a striking, gallery-inspired setting.

CAPE TOWN’S MOST PRIVATE LUXURY ESCAPE

Tucked into the slopes of Cape Town’s historic Constantia Winelands, Future Found Sanctuary offers a rare kind of luxury; private, immersive, and deeply connected to its surroundings. Refined design, expansive villas, and forest-framed pods create an atmosphere of quiet exclusivity just minutes from the city. Days unfold between mountain views, curated wellness experiences, and the timeless rhythm of the vineyards.

AN ANCIENT

LAND

In the remote foothills of the Cederberg mountain range, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat holds some of the oldest stories in the world.

WORDS SUSAN NEWHAM-BLAKE

Set within a 7 500-hectare private reserve, Bushmans

and inspired South African cuisine with memorable days spent discovering wideopen plains, wildlife and the

Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat combines five-star luxury

Cederberg’s pristine mountain wilderness.

A WORLD WITHOUT BORDERS where nobody owns land. That was how people lived down here in the south.’ Londi Ndizame’s eyes shine when he speaks about the extraordinary moonlike landscape around us. We sit on a flat rock in the shade of a small overhanging cave where we’re being being schooled by Londi, rock art curator at Bushman’s Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat near Clanwilliam. Above us, the sandstone walls are covered in artwork – a perfect picture of an elephant, trunk raised, is surrounded by men with bows and arrows. ‘The people who lived here were nomads,’ Londi continues. ‘They knew nothing about ownership of land but were deeply spiritual. To be honest, we don’t know the exact meaning of these paintings. But we believe they were painted by the medicine men, the shamans, who saw visions or prophecies.’ He explains that it’s the red illustrations painted in crushed ochre that have survived the longest. Londi points to another part of the cave wall, and my father and two sons move forward to get a closer look at the men dancing (likely an initiation rite for those entering manhood). Next to them fat, red shapes depict a herd of eland, animals that were both hunted and revered as sacred.

This is just one rock art site at Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat, a reserve that is believed to be home to the largest collection of rock art in the world. ‘There are approximately 140 rock art sites surrounding Bushman’s Kloof,’ Londi informs us. ‘Most cannot be dated directly, but we’ve approximated some of the sites using radiocarbon dating: the most ancient are between 1 000 and 10 000 years old. When dating, it’s important to look at what was painted and how it was depicted. Paintings of sheep and cattle, as well as finger paintings made by the Khoikhoi tribe, are all less than 2 000 years old, for example.’

The rock art is not the only thing that is remarkable about this land. Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat is situated on 7 500 hectares of Klein Karoo, three hours from

Cape Town, at the foot of the Cederberg mountain range. Shaped over 500 million years, the area is home to dramatic sandstone formations and ancient San rock art. Once teeming with wildlife like elephants, lions and quagga, the landscape holds deep historical and natural significance. It’s a landscape touched by the oldest markings of human existence. As if to illustrate the point, Londi bends down and picks up a shard of clay pronouncing that this was most likely a piece of a pot used by the Khoisan to carry water hundreds of years ago.

Three generations of my family – kids, parents and grandparents – have come to stay at Koro Lodge, an exclusive-use villa situated in a private area of the reserve and perfect for a multi-generational weekend away. Sleeping 10 guests, the lodge is available on a fully inclusive basis and located a few kilometres from the main lodge. A private chef and butler contribute to a relaxing and bonding experience for the whole family. Rooms are individually decorated with a beautiful collection of handpicked art, antiques and heritage furniture pieces that together celebrate the history and culture of the region.

The wraparound verandah overlooks a lush garden set against panaromic wilderness views – perfect for my parents and I to spend some downtime sunk in leather rocking chairs. From here we watch weaver birds build their globular nests on the branches of a giant acacia tree overhanging the rimflow pool. In the late afternoons and early evenings, a resident red hartebeest arrives to graze, removing any need for a lawnmower.

While the adults while away the afternoons on the verandah, the kids swim in the pool or grab one of the villa’s bicycles for an adventure around the reserve, to later return with tales of antelope, wildebeest and zebra sightings, or the discovery of a dam where you can grab a canoe to paddle down the Olifants River. The reserve lends itself so well to a family getaway like ours, where children, parents and grandparents can enjoy individual and shared activities.

KORO LODGE IS AN EXCLUSIVE-USE VILLA, PERFECT FOR A MULTI-GENERATIONAL WEEKEND AWAY.

CLOCKWISE FROM OPPOSITE Evening drinks at Makana overlooking the Boontjies River; the private villa, Koro Lodge, is fully inclusive and offers the ideal space for guests to spend time with loved ones amid the natural beauty; expert guides offer unforgettable stargazing experiences; talented chefs present culinary adventures of their own, with much of the fresh produce coming from the extensive on-site kitchen gardens.

In the late afternoon, Londi takes us on a game drive and provides a wealth of knowledge about the multiple animal species, birds and vegetation. There are herds of Cape mountain zebra, multiple antelope species and black wildebeest. We also spot two baby ostriches, fluffy balls with skinny legs and necks.

But it’s the food that marks our days. Each mealtime is a reminder that Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat is all about generosity and abundance, with a view to creating family memories. On our first night, a four-course fine-dining menu is on offer that includes a mussel pot with home-baked bread and buchu butter, pork belly and springbok loin, all topped off with chef JP’s delectable chocolate fondant. Host and sommelier Byron is adept at discussing wine, as well as telling stories about the area. On our second day we’re treated to a picnic lunch next to a dam. A table on the riverbank is laden with platters of grapes, fresh figs and cheeses as well as chicken wraps, venison skewers and generous slices of homemade cheesecake.

One night we enjoy a bush braai under the stars, a table set for royalty against the sheer cliff face of the craggy rocks. Here, we’re treated to South African favourites like homemade garlic bread, freshly caught yellowtail baked in lemon butter, medallions of perfectly braaied beef fillet and lamb chops from neighbouring farms. Dessert is baked-on-the-braai malva pudding with crème anglaise, a firm family favourite.

Our last night at Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat is moonless. We head off into the darkness after dinner, the kids huddled in blankets in the back seat of the game viewer giggly with anticipation, my parents warmly wrapped upfront. Twenty minutes of driving and we’re in the remotest area of the reserve. We climb out of the game vehicle and stand with heads tilted upwards.

The night sky is a spray of white paint on a black canvas. As we stand in awe, our guide highlights constellations while explaining their cultural significance, which tonight, without moonlight are remarkably clear in this pollution-free setting. The kids take turns identifying their astrological signs. We stand gazing at the rhythmic flashes of a commercial plane that appears lost in the vastness of the cosmos, and as we stand staring, there’s a sudden appearance of bright light – a shooting star, closer than what we’ve ever seen before, seems to fall to the ground nearby.

There’s a rustle in the bush and we all gasp, instantly pulled back to earth. A startled bush hare sits stock still, paralysed by the light of our guide’s torch. We all laugh in relief but also in astonishment at the impossible beauty of this extraordinary place.  bushmanskloof.co.za

ABOVE The outdoor braai and dining area at Koro Lodge offers a true al fresco experience.

ART OF THE BLEND

Hailing from the northern slopes of the Helderberg mountains, Alto’s Estate Blend is characterised by intense fruit concentration, deep flavours and dense colours. A masterful result of the cool growing season of 2022 – and winemaking at its finest.

ALTO WINE ESTATE, nestled high on the Helderberg Mountains in Stellenbosch, has been producing world-class red wines for more than 100 years, with 2024 marking the release of the 100th consecutive vintage of Alto Rouge. Being the oldest red-wine-only producer in South Africa, it’s also one of the few wine estates to have only had five winemakers in their centuryold history – with two being a father-and-son duo.

Their small and curated portfolio consists of the iconic Alto Rouge, award-winning single varietal Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, Estate Blend and a limited-release Bordeaux-style blend M.P.H.S.

Continuing Alto’s 100-year legacy of producing premium, refined red wine is its 2022 Estate Blend. A cool growing season in 2022 resulted in slow-ripening, highly concentrated grapes, allowing for an exceptionally structured blend, comprising 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Shiraz and 10% Cabernet Franc.

According to winemaker Bertho van der Westhuizen, the Estate Blend captures the true essence of Alto’s distinctive terroir, with each of its varietal components having proved, over decades, how well they capture the nuances of their home on the slopes of the Helderberg.

‘Vineyards grow from heights varying between 135m and 500m above sea level, on a steep and even north-facing slope,’ explains Bertho.

‘When north-facing, the vineyards bask in the afternoon sun and enjoy constant airflow from the Atlantic Ocean at False Bay, some eight kilometres to the south. This sunlight falling on our singular slope of constant vines allows for even ripening, while the differences in elevation make for exciting variances in flavour profiles, as grapes growing at 200m taste different to those growing at 450m.’

The 2022 vintage from Alto followed a cold, wet Cape winter that had provided adequate water for Alto’s decomposed granite and clay soils, resulting in a late start to the growing season. A mild summer lead to the slow and even ripening of the grapes.

‘The longer hang time for the Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Cabernet Franc grapes used for Alto’s Estate Blend resulted in immense fruit concentration, deep flavour and dense colours, while holding a core of bright acidity that ensured freshness.’

The wine underwent malolactic fermentation in barrel, after which it was matured for 18 months in French oak barrels, 70% of which were made from new wood.

‘Records of the past few years’ vintages in Stellenbosch tend to highlight the uneven years as being exceptional – 2013, 2015 and 2017, for example,’ says Bertho. ‘But, at Alto, we’re tagging 2022 as a particularly fine year for our red wines and believe this is evident in the latest release of Alto’s Estate Blend.

‘There is a firm backbone of muscular tannin in the wine, while the plush, dark-fruit flavours and elements of spice abound in a refined, elegant red wine that will mature splendidly over the next 10 to 15 years.’  alto.co.za

PLETTENBERG BAY, GARDEN ROUTE

Asking: R6.85 million | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

New, modern, north-facing, light-filled home in a secure complex in Seaside Longships, a short walk from shops and the beach, with open-plan living area (wood fireplace), well-appointed kitchen with integrated SMEG appliances and gas stove, guest toilet, patio with a built-in braai and private garden. Petfriendly. The Boardwalk features: clubhouse, large pool, communal braai areas, and ample space for entertaining guests. The estate is securely guarded with permanent on-site security, offering peace of mind for you and your family.

Sue Harvey: 083 306 7499; Office: 044 533 2529; Web Ref: SIR116977. Lew

FERNRIDGE, GEORGE

Asking: R6.8 million | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Set in a magical garden, at the end of a cul-de-sac, on the foothills of the Outeniqua mountains, this characterful residence enjoys absolute privacy. Interleading entertainment spaces, include a cocktail bar and expansive braai room, opening to a lush garden with pond and fountain. Generous living and dining areas flow to a stylish, eat-in kitchen. Three bedroom suites, including a private studio, provide flexible, luxury accommodation. Double garaging, carport, and a substantial workshop, complete this refined offering. Daleen Moolman: 083 613 0630; Office: 044 873 2519; Web Ref: SIR124321.

DE VLUGT, GARDEN ROUTE

Asking: R16.5 million | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 1 Garage

Escape the rat-race! Off-grid smallholding on the scenic Prince Alfred’s Pass, with ample water, endless mountain views and a sense of space and tranquillity. 66 ha farm 50km from Plett. Main house, 2-bedroom guest cottage, beautiful swimming pool and boma lapa area for communal entertainment, dedicated workshop, 1 garage, 3 carports, 2 staff quarters, enclosed fruit orchard, greenhouse grow room for fresh vegetables and fruits, roaming game, hiking and horse-riding trails. Permanent residence or weekend retreat and getaway spot.

Paul Jordaan: 082 876 0577; Office: 044 533 2529; Web Ref: SIR117634.

BRYANSTON, SANDTON

Asking: R28 million | 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | 7 Garages

Set within a secure gated enclave in Bryanston, this exceptional Spanish Colonial residence offers luxurious double-storey living on an expansive stand. Elegant open-plan receptions flow to landscaped gardens with water features, pool, firepit and multiple entertainment areas. Four sumptuous bedroom suites, a guest suite, library and gourmet kitchen ensure refined comfort, while a rooftop terrace captures sweeping views. Complete with solar power, borehole water, staff accommodation and extensive parking, this is executive living at its finest. Lou-Anne Chetty: 082 852 2407; Office: 011 886 8070; Web Ref: 6709468.

FOREST TOWN, JOHANNESBURG

Asking: R9.5 million | 5 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

This enchanting north-facing double-storey home rests on ±2,300sqm of lush landscaped gardens. Warmth and character define the interiors with wood floors, pressed ceilings and fireplaces, reception areas flow to a covered patio, pool and vegetable garden. Five bedrooms, a library, study and gourmet kitchen are complemented by two self-contained cottages. Exceptional features and superb security, this is a rare and beautifully maintained family home. Beverley Gurwicz: 082 412 0010; Office: 011 886 8070; Web Ref: 7325607.

MORNINGSIDE, SANDTON

Asking: R10.950 million | 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | 3 Garages

Set within an exclusive cluster complex, secure cul-de-sac in Morningside, this elegant 4-bedroom home offers effortless luxury with 24-hour security. Light-filled 4 open-plan reception areas flow seamlessly onto a landscaped garden and private pool. Boasting 4 en-suite bedrooms (including 1 downstairs), a designer kitchen, study, staff accommodation, and premium finishes throughout, this exceptional home delivers refined living and ultimate convenience close to top schools and Sandton’s business hub. Marc: 082 854 7272; Alan: 082 490 0940; Office: 011 886 8070; Web Ref: SIR120194.

PARKVIEW, JOHANNESBURG

Asking: R4.3 million | 4 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 2 Carports

A solid double-storey home offers exceptional potential for renovation. Generous living spaces include an open-plan lounge and dining area, a separate family room or fifth bedroom, and a well-sized kitchen. Upstairs features four spacious bedrooms, a bathroom and a pajama lounge opening to a private balcony. With staff accommodation, ample parking and excellent security, this is a rare opportunity to reimagine a classic home on a generous stand. Theodora: 082 553 8525; David: 082 565 6367; Office: 011 886 8070; Web Ref: SIR124314.

PARKHURST, JOHANNESBURG

Asking: R6.950 million | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 3 Garages

A thrilling, one-of-a-kind residence in Parkhurst’s coveted “Little Chelsea” enclave. This exceptional home by Future Classics Design Studio masterfully blends heritage charm with contemporary refinement, centred around a serene pool courtyard and designed for seamless indoor-outdoor living. With bespoke finishes, 3 luxurious bedroom suites, and advanced off-grid systems, it offers a level of design integrity and exclusivity seldom found.

“For the buyer who understands that true quality is not easily reproduced.” Cornel: 082 468 8247; Willem: 082 442 1497; Office: 011 886 8070; Web Ref: SIR124479.

NORTHCLIFF, RANDBURG

Asking: R5.8 million | 5 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 5 Garages | Pool

Expansive Northcliff family home set around a private resort-style pool courtyard. Multiple reception areas include a large entertainment lounge with built-in bar, games area, and covered patio with braai, flowing seamlessly to the pool and landscaped gardens. Spacious eat-in kitchen with gas hob, double oven, scullery, and laundry. Luxurious main suite with walk-in dressing room, lounge, and spa bath. Additional outbuildings include two cottages, perfect for guests or work-from-home. Fully walled, secure, with solar power and ample parking. Melinda Odendaal: 083 399 4113; Louw Stuart: 082 464 7914, Office: 011 476 8303; Web Ref: SIR123959.

NORTHCLIFF, RANDBURG

Asking: R5.9 million | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 2 Garages | Pool

Set on a private panhandle in sought-after Northcliff, this expansive singlelevel home offers privacy, space, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Warm interiors flow onto a covered patio with built-in braai, overlooking a landscaped garden and pool—ideal for relaxed living and entertaining. Four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a study, and a self-contained cottage provide flexibility. Features include a large kitchen, scullery, laundry, double garage, and excellent security, delivering exceptional lifestyle appeal on a generous stand. Melinda Odendaal: 083 399 4113; Louw Stuart: 082 464 7914, Office: 011 476 8303; Web Ref: SIR123960.

EMMARENTIA, RANDBURG

Asking: R4.9 million | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 2 Garages | Pool

A landmark corner property offering style, space, and exceptional versatility. Ideal as a luxurious family home, offices, or consulting suites, it combines elegance with practicality. Warm parquet flooring and generous interiors create a refined yet welcoming atmosphere. Despite its prominent position, the home remains peaceful and private. A double-storey cottage adds value for rental, guests, or workspace. Features include 21 solar panels, a swimming pool, and an outdoor entertainment area—delivering lifestyle, convenience, and excellent potential in one remarkable package. Ancilla Schroeder: 082 457 1281; Office: 011 476 8303; Web Ref: SIR119328.

OLIVE CREST ESTATE – ROODEPOORT

Asking: R5.950 million | 4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Tucked away in sought-after Olive Crest Estate, this beautifully appointed home offers a lifestyle of comfort and ease. Featuring four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, dual lounges, and a study, it’s designed for modern living. A warm braai room flows to a spacious garden with a fire pit, ideal for entertaining. The kitchen includes a separate scullery, while extras like an inverter, water tank, double garage, and staff accommodation add convenience and value.

Heidi Goodburn: 083 633 3467; Office: 010 900 3450; Web Ref: SIR124257.

Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty – Roodepoort is

(Pty)Ltd

2019/344066/0SIR108611

(Proprietary) Limited

FAIRHAVEN COUNTRY ESTATE

Asking: R10.8 million | 3 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | 2 Parkings

This exceptional modern home boasts uninterrupted views of Table Bay and Table Mountain. It features three spacious en-suite bedrooms, a guest toilet, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. The lounge opens to an undercover patio, while the dining area includes a built-in braai for year-round entertaining. A gas fireplace adds warmth, and all bedrooms open outside for natural light. Extras include a double garage, solar backup system, swimming pool, and wooden deck—offering luxury, comfort, and breathtaking surroundings. Chantal Botes: 0837025460; Office: 021-8514450; Web Ref: SIR124320. Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty – Helderberg is an

2023/178798/07

GLENVISTA – JHB SOUTH

Asking: R6.499 million | 6 Bedrooms | 6 Bathrooms | 5 Garages

Experience luxury living in this magnificent modern home featuring 6 spacious bedrooms, 5 bathrooms (4 en-suite), and 2 guest toilets. Designed for entertaining, it offers expansive open-plan living, a gourmet kitchen, double lounges, dining areas, and a bar-equipped entertainment room leading to a heated pool and lush garden with golf course views. Upstairs includes 5 bedrooms, a pyjama lounge, and a grand master suite with walk-in closet, spa bathroom, and private balcony overlooking mountains and fairways. Saxon Dhladhla: 0780025329; Office: 010 900 3450; Web Ref: SIR11832.

SPANISH FARM SOMERSET WEST

Asking: R25.9 million | 3 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

This luxury modern home in a prestigious estate offers panoramic views of False Bay and Table Mountain. It features three spacious en-suite bedrooms with outdoor access, including a main suite with a private balcony. Openplan living areas are enhanced by a double-sided fireplace, while the kitchen includes a separate scullery. Entertaining spaces overlook a pool, with a study, guest toilet, double garage, ample parking, backup power, and landscaped garden completing this exceptional home. Chantal Botes: 0837025460; Office: 021-8514450; Web Ref: SIR123993.

UPPER CONSTANTIA, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R80 million | 7 Beds | 6.5 Baths | 3 Garages | 4 Receptions | Study

No transfer duty necessary – all furniture included. Set in a tranquil, leafy country setting in Constantia, a striking north-facing residence unfolds over two elegantly designed levels. At the heart of the home is a dramatic doublevolume living space that flows into an elongated barn style living area, a bold yet welcoming environment where generous proportions, slate grey floors, and walls of glass create a seamless connection to the level garden, expansive pool, and outdoor entertainment terraces. Rouvaun McKirby: 071 671 0821; Jo Thomas: 084 404 4120; Office: 021 701 2446; Web Ref: SIR124001.

RONDEBOSCH, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R18.650 million | 5 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

The beautifully restored “Rose Cottage” (circa 1905) set on 1.331m2 erf, blends historic charm with modern living. This home features preserved period details, elegant reception rooms, and a spacious open-plan kitchen and family area opening onto undercover entertainment deck and swimming pool. Accommodation includes five large bedrooms. Two separate luxurious income generating self-contained units. This versatile Silwood home offers exceptional lifestyle and investment appeal. Lesley Payne: 082 4554 808; Office: 021 673 1280; Web Ref: SIR124386.

ZWAANSWYK, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R65.950 million | 4 Bedrooms | 7 Bathrooms | 3 Garages

An Oasis of Calm & Reflection. Perched at the edge of a nature reserve lies a serene sanctuary to delight the senses. An ancient entrance door, imported from India, natural stone clad wall with softly cascading water feature, statement trees and variety of verdant ferns enhances the courtyard. Elegant, modernist interiors usher you into a cocoon of minimalist beauty. Assirelli designed open plan kitchen. Studio apartment by Architect Michael Rudolph. Interior design by Tanya Brodie. Franchesca Watson designed Cape fynbos indigenous garden. Dawn Bloch: 072 496 9458; Office: 021 701 2446; Web Ref: SIR124339.

NEWLANDS, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R10.5 million | 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 1 Garage

Tucked away in a quiet, sought-after pocket close to Westerford, this stunning family home combines classic bungalow charm with modern elegance. It features beautifully maintained, open-plan living and dining spaces that flow effortlessly. Perfect for family life and entertaining. The home offers four spacious bedrooms and three bathrooms, with a separate entrance ideal for dual living, guests, or a work-from-home setup. North-facing and filled with natural light, it provides a bright, uplifting atmosphere. Set in a peaceful area with excellent security, this is an exceptional family sanctuary. Jennifer Lee: 082 562 5139; Christine Commaille-Rey: 082 655 5552; Office: 021 673 1280;Web Ref: SIR124162.

KIRSTENHOF, CAPE TOWN

Asking: POA | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Modern luxury home on 728sqm erf with mountain views, positioned next to a tranquil park. Open-plan living flows to an entertainment patio with adjustable pergola, heated pool, and built-in braai. Designer kitchen with premium appliances, three en-suite bedrooms. Spacious main suite with walk-in dressing room. Lovely garden with large lawn and play area. Features include solar, fibre, air conditioning throughout, borehole, irrigation, double garage, and top security. Ideal for stylish family living and entertaining. Furniture and appliances included, dependant on the level of the offer. Dawn Bloch: 072 496 9458; Nikki Lombard: 082 921 8965; Office: 021 7012446; Web Ref: SIR123961.

NOORDHOEK, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R25 million | Land Size 62 396m²

This exceptional 15-acre agricultural property on the slopes of Silvermine Mountain offers panoramic views of both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Surrounded by indigenous fynbos, mature trees, and a year-round pond, it’s a rare natural sanctuary bordering SANParks. Ideal for low-impact, ecoconscious development, preserving its beauty and value. Minutes from Noordhoek Farm Village and close to the iconic 7km Noordhoek Beach. Top schools, shops, and amenities are nearby, with Cape Town and the airport just 45 minutes away. Lilian Bron: 076 959 2733; Helen Smith: 084 503 5464; Office 021 783 8260; Web Ref: SIR117288.

KOMMETJIE, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R13.5 million | 4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 1 Garage

A beautifully transformed coastal home offering sanctuary, style, and income potential just moments from Longbeach. Light-filled open-plan living flows to a covered patio, with ocean glimpses and greenbelt views throughout. Featuring three bedrooms, a fireplace, wooden floors, and a versatile downstairs office and studio. The main suite opens to a balcony, while a fully self-contained flatlet with private entrance is ideal for Airbnb or rental income. Extras include solar power, inverter, outdoor showers, and secure parking for up to five vehicles. Stylish, serene, and perfectly located for coastal living. Natalie Cooper: 083 630 0911; Office: 021 783 8260; Web Ref: SIR124323.

MISTY CLIFFS, SCARBOROUGH, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R21 million | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Pool

Nestled in the breathtaking coastal enclave of Misty Cliffs, this modern 4-bedroom, 4-bathroom residence blends luxury, comfort, and investment appeal. Sold fully furnished—from artwork to cutlery—it’s truly turnkey ready. Currently a thriving luxury BnB, the home features open-plan living spaces flowing to ocean-view terraces, a pool, and outdoor shower. One suite offers its own entrance and terrace for added privacy. Whether as a serene family retreat or income-generating haven, this coastal masterpiece invites you to arrive, unwind, and live the dream in effortless seaside style. Natalie Cooper: 083 630 0911; Katrien De Brabander: 082 779 2054; Office 021 783 8260; Web Ref: SIR116758.

VAL DE VIE ESTATE, PAARL

Asking: R21.950 million | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Nestled in one of the most tranquil pockets of Val de Vie Estate, this elegant double-storey home offers refined family living surrounded by mature trees, lush greenery and an exceptional sense of privacy. Designed for modern living, the home blends sophistication with everyday comfort, offering generous spaces, seamless indoor-outdoor flow and high-quality finishes throughout. Kim Edges: 072 562 4472; Suritha van Tonder: 084 440 4283; Office: 021 867 0065; Web Ref: SIR124100. Lew Geffen Sotheby’s International Realty – Winelands is

FRANSCHHOEK

Asking: R15.450 million | 3 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Welcome to a beautifully designed contemporary home, positioned within the sought-after Franschhoek Estate. Crafted for both comfort and entertaining, this residence offers functionality and security. The home features three ensuite bedrooms, providing privacy and luxury for both family and guests. A dedicated study downstairs creates the ideal work-from-home environment or quiet retreat. Gary de Valle: 082 464 8038; Moira Barham: 082 896 3597; Office: 021 876 8480; Web Ref: SIR124207.

VAL DE VIE ESTATE, PAARL

Asking: R24.9 million | 5 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | 3 Garages

Experience the perfect blend of luxury and family living in this remarkable contemporary light filled home. Thoughtfully designed open-plan spaces ensure every area flows effortlessly, from the ulra-modern kitchen with separate scullery/laundry to the dining and lounge area, creating the ultimate hub for entertaining family and friends. Val de Vie Estate has been voted the number one security estate in Africa, ensuring peace of mind for its residents. Suritha van Tonder: 084 440 4283; Kim Edges: 072 562 4472; Office: 021 867 0065; Office: 021 867 0065; Web Ref: SIR117869.

FRANSCHHOEK

Asking: R36 million | 4 Bedrooms | 6 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Framed by vineyards and the dramatic Franschhoek mountain silhouettes, this home captures the essence of estate living at its most elevated: private, secure, serene and deeply connected to its natural surroundings, yet within minutes from the internationally renowned Franschhoek village. Completed in 2021, it has been designed by the architect to create seamless indoor-outdoor flows, expansive living areas spilling onto generous terraces and landscaped garden spaces. Moira Barham: 082 896 3597; Gary de Valle: 082 464 8038; Office: 021 876 8480; Web Ref: SIR124172.

STELLENBOSCH

Asking: R23.9 million | 4 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Architectural Masterpiece in Rozendal – Stellenbosch Gem with Breathtaking Mountain Views. Set in a well-established suburb of Stellenbosch. Perfectly positioned with sweeping views of the iconic Stellenbosch Mountain, it offers stylish living in a sought-after location — just minutes from top schools, play parks, renowned wine farms, and the scenic Jonkershoek Valley with its mountain trails. The interior features a harmonious palette of oatmeal, mushroom, sage, barley, snow, and taupe, complemented by high-end finishes and natural materials throughout. Maggie Smit: 083 712 5716; Office: 021 809 2760; Web Ref: SIR115300.

PAARL

Asking: R7.950 million | 6 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

Perfectly positioned against the mountain in one of Groenvlei’s most desirable locations, this exceptional 6-bedroom family home offers space, privacy and direct access to the surrounding nature reserve — ideal for outdoor lovers and families seeking a tranquil Winelands lifestyle. Set on a generous stand, 1404m2, with expansive front and back gardens, the property provides ample secure space for children and pets to play, while the beautifully maintained garden and sparkling pool create the perfect setting for relaxed family living and entertaining. Reghardt Human: 071 554 5056; Office: 021 870 1011; Web Ref: SIR118172.

LE PARC ESTATE, PAARL

Asking: R3.2 million | 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | 1 Garage

This modern single storey, lock-up-and-go two-bedroom home in Le Parc Estate, Paarl, offers the perfect blend of style, convenience, and security. Situated within a secure estate with controlled access, this home provides peace of mind and a low-maintenance lifestyle—ideal for professionals, small families, or those looking to downscale without compromising on quality.Miranda Coetzee: 083 414 7212; Adele de Almeida: 082 780 0067; Office: 021 870 1011; Web Ref: SIR124251.

KRIGEVILLE, STELLENBOSCH

Asking: R20 million | 4 Bedrooms | 5 Bathrooms | 2 Garages

The current owner fell in love the moment she stepped onto the parquet wooden floors of this charming home. She could instantly picture her family growing up here — children walking to excellent schools, laughter filling the garden, and years of treasured memories being made. Now, as life moves on this much-loved home is ready to welcome its next family. From the moment the gate opens, you are drawn into the romance of the property. A shady, established garden, classic thatch roof, and an inviting balcony set the tone for a home designed for happy ever-afters. Maggie Smit: 083 712 5716; Office: 021 809 2760; Web Ref: SIR118269.

Lew Geffen Sotheby’s

FRESNAYE, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R38.995 million | 4 Bedrooms | 4.5 Bathrooms | 1 Garage | 686 sqm

Set in the prestigious suburb of Fresnaye, this elegant family home offers seamless indoor-outdoor living with ocean views. Featuring four spacious upstairs bedrooms, including a luxurious main suite with balcony, plus a pyjama lounge, the home is designed for comfort. Downstairs boasts openplan living, a terrace, garden, pool, playroom, and office. Additional highlights include staff accommodation, ample storage, and three parkings ideal for modern coastal family living. Taurin Craze: +27 (0) 60 571 4230; Office: 021 401 4338; Web Ref: SIR124085.

CITY CENTRE, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R9.995 million | 2 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms | 2 Parkings | 122 sqm

Set high above Cape Town, this sophisticated triplex penthouse offers exceptional city, ocean, and mountain views. A striking staircase anchors expansive open-plan living, complemented by premium finishes and a fully integrated kitchen. The top level features a private rooftop terrace with builtin braai, ideal for entertaining. Two luxurious en-suite bedrooms, two secure parking bays, and access to 24-hour security, concierge, and rooftop amenities complete this exclusive offering. Ben Gross: +27 (0) 72 565 8920; Office: 021 401 4338; Web Ref: SIR124416.

FRESNAYE, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R20.5 million | 2 Bedrooms | 2.5 Bathrooms | 1 Garage | 340 sqm

Set on the sought-after slopes of Fresnaye, this sophisticated two-bedroom apartment offers uninterrupted Atlantic Ocean views. Currently being upgraded with high-end finishes, it features open-plan living flowing onto a spacious patio. The modern kitchen includes a scullery, while both bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms. Extras include a private pool, built-in braai, inverter, and secure plus off-street parking—an exceptional coastal opportunity in a prime location. Richard Hawes: +27 (0) 72 947 1951; Office: 021 401 4338; Web Ref: SIR124007.

CITY CENTRE, CAPE TOWN

Asking: R8.5 million | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | 2 Parkings | 176 sqm

Mutual Heights is more than a residence; it is a Cape Town icon, originally built in 1939 and thoughtfully reimagined by Robert Silke. This apartment offers three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and striking double-volume ceilings. Original Art Deco detailing blends seamlessly with refined modern finishes, while natural light enhances the warmth of parquet floors and restored textures. Ideal for both homeowners and investors, it presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of architectural heritage with enduring appeal. Ben Gross: +27 (0) 72 565 8920; Office: 021 401 4338; Web Ref: SIR117088.