Coot Club is a luxury retreat set on 464 hectares of private beachside nature reserve on South Africa’s famous Whale Coast. Under two hours from Cape Town International Airport, it also offers access to the beaches of the Walker Bay Conservancy.
Overview
Coot Club comprises the ‘Clubhouse’ and a beautiful collection of villas set back in fynbos thickets with 17 kilometres of pristine beach just beyond. The shared area – the Clubhouse – consists of stylish of a restaurant and bar, two communal swimming pools, and areas for outdoor dining. Throughout Coot Club, the décor is understated yet vibrant, with flashes of colour setting off the traditional whitewashed wooden walls and subtly nautical decorations.
Food & service
The standard of the food served at Coot Club is high, with guests able to take advantage of a full breakfast included in the accommodation rates, an a la carte seasonal lunch menu and a fixed two-course dinner menu. There is also a well-stocked bar, an outdoor pizza area under the shade of milkwood trees, and the opportunity to enjoy a traditional South African Braii outdoors after a sundowner on the pier.
Throughout Coot Club, the décor is understated yet vibrant, with flashes of colour setting off the traditional whitewashed wooden walls and subtly nautical decorations (crossed oars on a kitchen wall, for instance, or miniature ships mounted on bedroom shelves). All accommodations include private gardens and kitchen facilities, ample decking (though it should be noted the views from the Leewards units are somewhat limited), and most offer KolKol wood-fired hot tubs. The larger accommodations include generous lounge areas to allow groups to gather in privacy.
Rooms
Accommodation includes three 3-bedroom Boathouses and a pair with two bedrooms; the Lawns, a 3-bedroom stone-built unit with a loft area; and four 1-bedroom Leewards cottages, suitable for couples or small families. All include private gardens and kitchen facilities, ample decking (though it should be noted the views from the Leewards units are somewhat limited, and most offer KolKol wood-fired hot tubs. The larger accommodations include generous lounge areas to allow groups to gather in privacy.
Activities
While the emphasis at Coot Club is on relaxation, there is a wide range of activities available. Kayaking and paddle-boarding are included, with motorised water sports available as well. Local wildlife includes whales, dolphins, leopards and an abundance of birdlife (whale-watching trips are available), and there are also vineyards and local villages to be visited.
Impact
The Coot Club is a member of the Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy and is committed to minimising environmental impact and benefiting local communities. The conservation levy included in their rates contributes directly to a range of local ecological initiatives, and Coot Club also donates 100% of its profits from guided quad bike trips and motorised water-sport activities.