Where It All Began

Affordable eco-chic, South African style.

 

A new accommodation offering came across our path today: from its name, you might think this was some kind of hippy relic from the 1970s, whereas in fact Purple Haze Eco Lodge is an avant-garde, and highly affordable, accommodation choice.

Surrounded by beautiful wild land (protected Amathole coastal forest) during the day there is almost total silence other than birdsong and the crashing of waves – while the nights are dark, except for the moon and stars. The views of the Indian Ocean from this hillside are magnificent, as is sunset and sunrise, with early mornings accompanied by the smell of wet earth and crisp, fresh air. This is the start of the Wild Coast, Eastern Cape, South Africa.

The rooms (of which there are only five) have all been built as sustainably as possible for the context: there’s a grey water system, low energy appliances and all the rooms are orientated to take advantage of natural airflow so air con isn’t needed. Eco-friendly paint has been used on the colourful walls and furniture, and the lodge has been built from recyclable materials (steel and timber).   Decor is clean and modern, and the rooms feel spacious and light, with a floor-to-ceiling window and a sea-view balcony. Each also has a kitchenette.

Owners Inge Dryer Le Roux and Louf Coetser live on the property (on the second floor) with their ‘girls’, two labradors – Kili and Mojo.  Above them is the communal space, The Green Deck, which is a rooftop garden.  From here there are 360 degree views, perfect for your morning yoga or coffee or just taking in the sunsets.

Rates start at R780 per suite per night (roughly US$50).  More on their site at www.purplehazeecolodge.com