Maison Noir

A wooden boardwalk crosses the koi pond and leads to the central open-plan area, where glass-peaked roofs, skylights and enormous foldaway doors blur the distinction between indoors and out. A fireplace serves both the living room, furnished in whites and charcoal, and the dining room, where a chandelier overhangs a long table. Outside, second long table, rough hewn from a single piece of wood, is barbecue central. In the garden, the pool's wooden deck has its own fireplace.

Rented in its entirety, the property sleeps at least 10 guests in two king-sized master bedrooms and three guest suites (with additional loft bedrooms). All have private open-air showers with access to the garden, and out-of-this-world en-suite bathrooms. There's a clear focus on privacy and tranquillity, and the rooms are particularly appealing for their serene orientation. Master suites have especially grand views through large French doors, and from the antique tubs that hold pride of place in the enormous bathrooms.

​This little suburb is known locally as the Republic of Hout Bay, and it's easy to see why. There's a clear sense of being away from city bustle, despite easy access to all the action (and the centuries-old vineyards of Constantia). The village has several top-notch restaurants, a fishing harbour and a bustling weekend market. But Maison Noir's amenities are too good to waste. Admire the views from the pool, or sit with a book, or mountain-dreaming.