Brynbrook House, Noordhoek, Cape Town

Iris and Clive could not have been more welcoming. We arrived to find an apartment well stocked with provisions from fruit and fresh bread, through meat and cheese, to fruit juice and even a bottle of complementary wine in the fridge.

The apartment was spotless - a real home from home, with slippers and bathrobes in each wardrobe; authentic African art on display; satellite television, and a kitchen containing every utensil and gadget one could possibly need. In addition, use of both the pool and the internet were included.

Brynbrook is ideally situated for exploring the Cape. In our four days we saw penguins, seals and even whales; cage dived with great whites; ascended Table mountain; ate on the city waterfront and sampled the wares of two Stellenbosch wineries.

After busy days, it was a delight to braai on the balcony (charcoal and fire lighters thoughtfully provided by our hosts) and gaze at the stunning view over the bay which became magical as the sun set each evening.

We would have no hesitation in recommending Brynbrook to family and friends as the perfect base for visiting the area. Indeed, we plan to return ourselves one day.

Sue and Toni Burnley Pierre and Luci Sanan

Clive and Iris were wonderful hosts, who couldn't have been more helpful. Clive was good enough to pick us up from the airport and it was great, after such a long flight, to be welcomed and then to see that they'd laid on a "welcome pack" of goodies and basics so we didn't have to go straight out to the shops.

The apartment was exactly as advertised, spacious and well equipped. Very good kitchen facilities, a washing machine (and powder), coffee machine, water dispenser etc. (They have all the sports channels on cable. Brilliant for me, a football nut.) The property was clean and well maintained, the pool was lovely (if a bit cold for our 2 year old at this time of year!). Talking of her, the apartment was pretty child friendly and our hosts provided a nice cot - and even a teddy bear!

We only stayed 6 days, but all of us wish it could have been longer and would gladly recommend the apartment to anyone else, especially with children. I'm sure we'll be back.

As far as activities go, we were very impressed with Nordhoek farm village just down the road - it's a collection of restaurants and shops, with a playground, very child friendly and welcoming, and a wide selection of different food to choose from, all excellent. You probably do need a hire car (although there are taxis too) and it's a great spot to base yourself and do Cape Point, Fish Hoek/St James/Simons Town/Boulder Bay penguins etc, even go off on safari (3 hour drive) or wine tasting in Stellonbosch (sp?). Also handy for golf courses (Clive was kind enough to play a couple of rounds with me) and lots and lots of great beaches. This area of the western cape is wonderful.

Loved staying here.Beautiful views! Stunning accommodation and top notch service.
Thanks.