Exploring the beauty of a small seaside town on SA's West Coast

Yzerfontein is home to stretches of beautiful fynbos. Atlantica, with its panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean, is the ideal place to stay while visiting this tranquil harbour town, says Brian Berkman.

- Brian Berkman

There is something primal about South Africa’s West Coast; the climate and vegetation are quite different from the rest of the Western Cape coast, and the town of Yzerfontein is a perfect example of this. With fog regularly coming off the sea, coastal fynbos here is wonderfully lush.

At 59 Lutie Katz Road, Yzerfontein, is a large house bought by the Arnot family in 1996 as a holiday home. The Arts were captivated by the sights and sounds of the Atlantic Ocean on the doorstep of the property as well as the small-town charm that Yzerfontein is known for.

“Over the years, the property has undergone extensive renovations in the form of several additions such as bedrooms, entertainment areas, balconies and a pool,” says owner Gretchen Arnot.

“During this time it was decided that, due to the property’s layout and vast spaces, it would be a great destination for tourists and those people who wanted to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, so Atlantica was born.” Matthews Mathewe and Gretchen are the welcoming hosts at Atlantica. Matthews lives on the premises and is always available to assist guests, while Gretchen lives nearby.

HISTORY OF YZERFONTEIN