There’s no wondering why this eco-friendly family villa is called Ocean House: the Indian Ocean, in all its azure glory, is visible from every room. From mid-year, keep your binoculars close to spot breaching southern right whales as you enjoy a beach picnic or sundowners on the dunes.

Ideal for large families and groups, you can jet in straight from Cape Town and be driven through De Hoop Nature reserve, looking for mountain zebra, baboons, eland and caracul. The ocean offers snorkelling and pristine rock pools while birders will delight in black oystercatchers. Interiors feature top South African artists and large windows to let you admire the undulating coastal fynbos. A private chef and butler ensure the house runs smoothly.