The ‘republic’ of Hout Bay, a neighbourhood just outside of Cape Town, is the perfect spot for an almost staycation. Only a 30-minute drive from town, it’s hardly a big road trip, but the calming beach surrounded by mountains makes you feel like you’re in a completely different place.
Perched on one of the mountains, is the recently opened Hout and About Guest House. Run by couple and ex-yachties Alice and Thomas van Alphen, this beautifully renovated guesthouse offers a great spot to relax and build a base for adventures around Hout Bay.
Hout and About is easy to spot with its incredible mural. Image Credit: Leila Stein
Our hosts decided to give up the glitz and glamour of yachts and settled down in this beautiful bay. They have brought their expertise from the super yachts to their new establishment with pristine finishings and incredible service.
Upon arrival we were welcomed with freshly baked scones made by Alice. After this we were invited for a drink on the balcony. The sweeping views let the eyes wander down to the harbour and the mountains that wrap around the bay. From the balcony we could see all the sunset-chasers driving along the beginning of Chapman’s Peak, which makes for one of the most striking drives around the Cape Peninsula.
The mountains transform into a beautiful burnt orange as the sun sets. Image credit: Leila Stein
The guesthouse is close enough to walk to some of the area’s well-known restaurants, or guests can Uber for those that are a little further away. Alice and Thomas have tried and tested most of the best restaurants and offer up great advice on where to go. These include suggestions from the fine-dining Quentin at Oakhurst to the vibey Bay Harbour Market, which opens on Friday nights and Saturdays and Sundays. The market showcases the tunes of local musicians while you walk around, struggling to take your pick of the market’s many food offerings.
The main part of the guesthouse has been designed to ensure you never miss any of the panoramic view. Image credit: Leila Stein
The rooms are big and bright with their own entrances separate from the main house. This feature makes coming and going easy enough and adds a bit of privacy too. Our room opened up onto the pool which would be perfect for a dip during the approaching summer months when going down to the beach feels too much like hard work.
The big, comfortable beds are perfect after a big day exploring. Image credit: Leila Stein
After a peaceful night’s rest we found that Thomas, who is a trained chef, had whipped up a hot breakfast for us. Chef Thomas caters to all dietary specifications. Each guest can help themselves to the breakfast bar and gets their own little plunger to make the perfect cup of coffee.
We chose a delicious omelette stuffed with feta and spinach and scrambled eggs and mushrooms with a croissant. Image credit: Leila Stein
Hout Bay proved to be the perfect little escape from the hustle of the city. Hout and About is the best spot from which to get to know this part of the Cape. Alice and Thomas have combined five-star service with a warm, friendly approach that makes guests feel at home, but just special enough as though they were on holiday.
Prices for two nights:
Budget double room – R1,360
Standard double room – R1,530
Deluxe king room – R2,210
King room with pool view – R2,380
Family room – R2,380 (for two) or R3,230 (for four)
Contact: 0608356924
Address: 19 Pondicherry Avenue, Hout Bay
Website: Hout and About Guesthouse
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