This lodge will capture your heart with its lovely energy and uplifting views, says Ondela Mlandu
Purple Haze Eco Lodge – Chintsa, Eastern Cape
I stayed in Bay Dream, and could see the sea from my bed. Image by Ondela Mlandu
The first of its kind in the Chintsa area, this eco lodge is not your typical Wild Coast hippie haven – you won’t find any tie-dye decor or beating of bongo drums on the premises, but rather a modern and peaceful space.
Surrounded by beautiful wild land (protected Amathole coastal forest) and a golf estate, during the day there is almost total silence other than birdsong and the crashing of waves – while the nights are dark, except for the moon and stars. The views of the Indian Ocean from this hillside are magnificent, as is sunset and sunrise, with early mornings accompanied by the smell of wet earth and crisp, fresh air.
Here, connecting with nature is as simple as looking up. The lodge ticks the ‘green’ boxes: it has a grey water system, gas geysers, low energy appliances and takes advantage of natural airflow instead of using air con. Eco-friendly paint has been used on the colourful walls and furniture, and the lodge has been built from recyclable materials (steel and timber).Even the green lawn on the roof deck, it turns out, is made from recycled plastic.
The view from the Green Deck at Purple Haze- pack your paints and easel. Image by Ondela Mlandu
Owners Inge Dryer Le Roux and Louf Coetser live on the property (on the second floor) with their ‘girls’, two labradors – Kili and Mojo. On the ground floor are just five guest rooms. Decor is clean and modern, and the rooms feel spacious and light, with a floor-to-ceiling window and a balcony to let the views in. Each also has a kitchenette, but don’t expect to be whipping up gourmet meals as there is no stove or oven, only a microwave, fridge, toaster and kettle (tea, coffee and milk provided). However, this just means more reason to support the lovely restaurants in the neighbourhood.
The Green Deck on the rooftop is the only communal area at the lodge, and the best spot for appreciating the views. Guests gather here to update their Instagram, do yoga or have their morning coffee (as I did). Louf, who grew up in the area, told me that ‘seeing the guests relax with a glass of wine while marvelling at the sunset fills me with a deep sense of gratitude at being able to share this incredible village with the world’.
He and Inge, with their warm dispositions, have created a refuge for rejuvenation. Their good energy permeates the place. I’d say Purple Haze is best suited to couples or individuals who want a weekend away from the city to unwind and experience the stillness this place has to offer. The beach, Moonlight Bay, is a seven minute walk away.
Best feature The Green Deck, for its fabulous coastline views and night skies.
Cost R780 per room
Sleeps 2
Book 0818209920, purplehazeecolodge.com
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