Accommodation in L'Agulhas and Struisbaai

The allure of staying at the Southern point of Africa is in the sound of the two oceans colliding, the fresh sea breeze, the docile nature and the ever-present feeling of being on holiday. Escape the bustling world and savour the natural beauty and tranquillity of L’Agulhas and Struisbaai. The villages are but a few minutes apart and offer some incredible places to stay. 

Before we delve into the cosy ambience and airy rooms of the different accommodation in the area, first find out why you would want to stay in this place of geographical significance. First and foremost you can stand on the southernmost point of Africa where the Indian and Atlantic Ocean meet in a wild spray. The untamed waters have been the cause of many ships sinking and there is even one still jutting out from amongst the rocks. From July to December there are whales swimming along the coastline and all year there are resident stingrays that locals and tourists can feed. The outdoor activities are endless with the option to fish, swim in the tidal pools, lounge on the longest beach in the southern hemisphere, scuba dive, kayak, hike, bird watch, take a boat ride, quad bike, paraglide and visit the lighthouse. Then there are still the many places to eat and the welcoming nature of the townsfolk to embrace.

During the year the docile villages move at a sleepy pace but once the holiday season arrives the coastal towns become vibrant and full of energy. The accommodation in L’Agulhas is generally close to the tidal pools, restaurants, lighthouse, shops, the southernmost tip and most places to stay offer sea views. Struisbaai has an equally beautiful terrain and sea view but offers proximity to the longest beach in the Southern hemisphere, the harbour, many restaurants and the main shops of the two villages. Whether you prefer the periodic shimmer of the lighthouse to illuminate the walls of your accommodation or prefer to be closer to more of the amenities, staying in either town offers a lovely experience and much to explore. 

Due to the significance of the location and natural beauty, the two villages have made for an excellent holiday destination with an array of different accommodation to choose from. To begin, there is luxury accommodation with five-star country lodges and a unique art house. The country lodge is reminiscent of a stone castle perched on a hill with breath-taking views and exemplary accommodation and service. Let yourself be whisked away to a place where every whim is met and pampering awaits. The art house was once a contemporary art gallery filled with sculptures, paintings and photography. The owners then turned the gallery into accommodation where guests can now enjoy modern, classy comforts whilst surrounded by incredible artwork. It is savoir-vivre brought to a humble village. 

For long-term holidaymakers or those that simply like to make themselves at home, there is plenty of self-catering accommodation options. From luxury houses to beach cottages, a warm home awaits you. You can find exactly what you are looking for as the different places to stay offer some of the following amenities: fireplace, hammocks, braai (barbeque) area, fully-equipped kitchen and sensational views. It is even possible to find pet friendly accommodation or a place with a swimming pool or Jacuzzi. The options are endless. Some of the small town charm shines through with quirky additions like a seashell clad house or houses that have been standing since the 1800s. There one can find a contrast of a rustic exterior with modern amenities inside. 

There is also a great selection of B&Bs and Guest Houses where you can enjoy the homely comforts accompanied with warm hospitality. Some B&Bs offer the tempting smell of a hot English breakfast in the morning as well as a fully equipped kitchen for your convenience (half self-catering). Despite being charming and homely, there are some exceptional reasons to stay at a B&B or Guest House in either village. Some of the lodgings are surrounded by a national park, close to Pebble Beach or boast iridescent sea views. Then there is the option to stay in places of historical significance. The family beach house which belonged to Michiel van Breda (who Bredasdorp was named after) in 1929 is still standing and open to guests. It was the first house built in L’Agulhas so you can immerse yourself in the old world charm. Then in Struisbaai there is a B&B situated on one of the oldest farms that was developed in the 1700s. 

For nature lovers there is accommodation in the Agulhas National Park that ranges from thatch roofs and wooden houses to the traditional Dutch white-washed walls. There are camps, guest cottages and some accommodation that abides by the ‘touch the earth lightly’ principles, which strives to be more eco-friendly. For the budget traveller there is the renowned backpackers or camping and caravan options. The backpackers is awash with character and colourful personality which reflects the owners’ attention to detail. All amenities from a swimming pool to fully-equipped kitchen, clean dorms, bar, pool table, lounge and home-cooked dinners are available to the intrepid traveller. There is even an Adventure Centre across the road to satisfy the exploring spirits. The L'Agulhas caravan park is close to the beach and becomes the place to be during holiday season. 

Staying in L’Agulahs and Struisbaai offers that holiday experience where you are able to forget about your everyday responsibilities and get swept away by the refreshing maritime breeze. It will be a South African holiday to remember.