Pomegranate Cottage in Citrusdal, Western Cape

You'll discover Pomegranate Cottage 10km before Citrusdal, on a working fruit farm called Nuwedam. The farm sits high on the Olifants River Mountains, which translates into awesome views of the Swartland escarpment to the west and hazy Cederberg to the east. Pomegranate itself overlooks both mountains and a farm dam where you can swim, canoe and fish for bass to your heart's content. It's independent and private, making it a good choice of escape for the war-weary city native.

Accommodation

There are two bedrooms, both of them ensuite and with air-con; which you will find most welcome in summer. Each is fitted with a double and single bed (covered in percale linen), allowing for a total of six guests if push comes to shove.

The open-plan kitchen has the bonus of indoor braai, while the lounge area comes with deep leather sofas arranged around a fireplace and within reach of your DSTV remote control - dish provided but you need to bring your own decoder and card.

From the living room double doors open to an uncovered stoep with braai and hammock - heck, all these choices for that afternoon siesta! Although there is electricity, paraffin lanterns are provided. Our advice? Switch off the lights and the TV and light the lanterns and candles if you want to get the most out of the setting.

It's a step down from the terrace to a wide of swathe of open lawn (another good siesta option) and from here a hop across to your private timber deck on the dam, where there's a moored canoe for your private use. (Captain Getaway would like us to mention that during the last great war he also enjoyed a blissful siesta on a gondola in Venice, as did his young Italian lady friend...).

You also might consider hopping in the car and driving 5km down the road to a little known spot with massive views over the Swartland escarpment and a spot to braai your meat. Alternatively, leave the keys behind and cycle the 1.5km down to the quaint Kardoesie coffee shop.