Theescombe, Port Elizabeth

Lying just off the Kragga Kamma Road out of Port Elizabeth, Theescombe, neighbour to Lovemore Heights, Colleen Glen and just inland from desirable out-of-the-way beaches like Sardinia Bay, Kini Bay and Seaview, is a bit of a melting pot of plots, reasonably sized 'farms', and smallholdings.

The advantage to staying out here on the outskirts of the city is the view overlooking Port Elizabeth (the suburb is on a slight slope) and the peace and tranquility that comes from remaining aloof from holiday season riff-raff. Put it this way, those who live here say they will never leave!

Theescombe possibly wouldn't be the ideal holiday retreat when in Port Elizabeth that it is, if it weren't for its access to Seaview Main Road and Sardinia Bay. Sardinia Bay makes it into the friendly city's 'book of local secrets' and is the start of what locals refer to as Port Elizabeth’s 'wild side' - miles of undisturbed sandy beaches, craggy coves and crashing waves interspersed with gorgeous tidal pools and rock pools. It is uncrowded, offers a wonderful walking beach and acts as a haven for locals during holiday season.

Take Seaview Main Road to its end, and you reach the little village of Seaview (fairly logical). It's a beautiful aspect of the sea and safe tidal pools offer hours of snorkelling, swimming and gentle idling time.

Just next door to Theescombe, off the Kragga Kamma Road, is a perfect day's outing for families. Homeleigh Farmyard is a petting farm with tractor rides, a jumping castle and a host of farm animals for children to pet. Otherwise a drive out to Theescombe, for those looking for a break, offers ideal little tea places and a real countrified feel to the city.