Affordable Five-Star Luxury: Mosaic’s Lagoon Lodge near Stanford

I can feel the excitement building as I drive down a bumpy dirt track, surrounded by thick, unfamiliar plants. The anticipation is almost overwhelming as I approach a cluster of ancient milkwood trees emerging from the dense undergrowth. Small potted cacti mark the entrance to a hidden paradise, a place like no other: Lagoon Lodge at Mosaic Private Sanctuary.

A charming little lodge, located just a short distance from Stanford and less than two hours away from Cape Town, is the perfect escape if you want to get away from everything. I should know, I recently moved here after too many baboon incidents in Scarborough! This place is truly heavenly. When I stepped into the Kingfisher suite, I couldn’t help but be amazed by the beautifully rustic interior – it’s so stylish and cozy.

As I stroll along the boardwalk, I can’t help but feel a sense of joy and excitement, akin to a playful Bambi. The main lapa, situated under a magnificent milkwood tree, beckons to me. Its branches hang low, tempting me to climb them. Trees have a unique power over me, as if they are calling out to me, saying, “Come on, climb me!” It’s hard to resist their charm.

Later, Kathryn Johnson, the co-owner and talented interior designer, shares with me an astonishing fact. This particular milkwood tree is more than 800 years old. Just think of all the stories it could tell!

As I step into Lagoon Lodge, I am greeted warmly by Simone and handed a cup of tea. The tea is not just any ordinary tea; it is infused with flavors of nutmeg and star anise, making it a delightful treat. The attention to detail and the old-world charm of this place are truly impressive, and it’s no wonder that they have such a excellent reputation.

The main gathering area of the lodge, known as the lapa, is a sight to behold. Its large windows offer breathtaking views of the majestic mountains, the serene waters, and the boundless blue sky. It’s in moments like these that I am reminded of one of Africa’s greatest attractions – its vast sense of space. Unlike the bustling city skylines dominated by towering buildings, here in Africa, my soul feels free as it connects with the vastness of the land and the endless sky.

It’s moments like these that make me fall in love with this country over and over again. Africa offers me a sense of freedom that I can’t find anywhere else. It’s a feeling of liberation that fills my heart and elevates my spirit.

After getting some much-needed rest and replenishing my fluids, Octavia, a knowledgeable guide and the son of a Shangaan medicine woman, takes me out for a game drive on a refreshing spring afternoon. Even though there aren’t any dangerous animals in the Overberg, Octavia is an exceptional storyteller who can transform ordinary things into something enchanting. He shares fascinating facts about traditional plant remedies and how animals adapt to their environments. As we explore Walker Bay Nature Reserve, a pair of ordinary pigeons keep crossing our path. Octavia playfully remarks, “That’s a good sign. It means we’re going to see whales!”

Can you believe it? When we finally arrive at the beach, the ocean surprises us with an incredible show of whale ballet! We saw at least 7 groups of whales, and did you know that they’re called whale mobs? I looked it up! Most of them were mothers with their calves, happily playing in the water as we enjoyed the sunset and watched the sky turn a beautiful mix of pastel colors.

As the sun sets completely, we make our way back and find the majestic tree at Mosaic Farm illuminated by lanterns. This is where we meet Breese and Kathryn, the fascinating couple from Tennessee who own this amazing place. They have prepared a lavish dinner for us, with Chef Jurie showcasing his culinary skills. First, he presents a homemade springbok carpaccio accompanied by a fresh salad and farm bread. Then, we savor a spicy pea soup followed by a mouthwatering fillet served with a rich red wine jus and butternut dauphine. And for dessert, the pièce de résistance is a malva pudding paired with a custard infused with rooibos. It’s a blend of both traditional and innovative flavors, and it’s absolutely divine!

I gotta tell ya, the Mosaic, these guys really know how to appreciate local stuff. Their wine list is just incredible, featuring wines from right nearby, like Creation and Raka. Oh, and their house wine? It’s made right here too. Pretty cool for a bunch of Americans, huh? But seriously, the Johnsons, the ones running the show, they’re all about this place and the people in it. They’re all about sustainability too. Instead of buying furniture, they decided to build it themselves, creating jobs in the process. And get this – when they were clearing some pesky plants, they stumbled upon this hidden gem of a location for the lodge. They even used rocks from the farm to build stuff and incorporated branches as towel rails. Oh, and that cool-looking bar top? It’s made from a tree that washed up on Muizenberg beach. Talk about giving things a second chance, right?

I’m filled with wonder as I head towards my cozy bed along the wooden walkway, with the shimmering stars of midnight above me. As I enter my room, I’m greeted by a heartfelt handwritten message and a delightful Amarula nightcap. The bathroom invites me in with a salted bath, creating a blissful atmosphere while candlelight dances against the rugged rocks. When I settle into bed, I’m pleasantly surprised to find it warm and snug. How luxurious – both turn-down service and electric blankets, the perfect combination for a restful night’s sleep!

Waking up from a deep slumber that only happens on vacations or in paradise, I am greeted by golden sunshine streaming through the net canopy, framing a breathtaking view of the lagoon, mountains, and the morning sky. I sit on the veranda, sipping on my herbal tea, feeling a sense of tranquility wash over me as I soak in the serenity of this blessed sanctuary. Although I cherish the moment, a tinge of sadness settles in my heart at the thought of leaving this haven behind. Before I go, I quickly jot down a few notes, capturing the essence of this extraordinary place.

I make my way past the magical milkwood tree to enjoy breakfast, an event that goes beyond a simple meal. It’s a lavish smorgasbord of fresh fruits, delectable cheeses, and flavorful cured meats. The grand finale is a plate of creamy scrambled eggs and delicate smoked salmon. With a satisfied appetite, it’s time for a leisurely morning nature walk – a gentle 3km stroll along the glittering lagoon to the Spookhuis. Along the way, Octavia, our guide, shares fascinating stories and points out fresh caracal footprints, blooming wildflowers, and intriguing porcupine quills. I can’t help but be envious of Octavia’s camera as we marvel at the elegant flamingos, strutting like models on a silent catwalk – one leg gracefully bent, hand on hip.

When I arrived at the impeccably restored 1892 Spookhuis, which the Johnsons had worked tirelessly to bring back to life, I was amazed. The venue was absolutely stunning! It was perfect for a rejuvenating yoga retreat, an elegant musical soirée, a joyous wedding reception, a romantic afternoon coffee date, or a relaxed family picnic. And there’s more! They even have a remarkable wine cellar, a cozy Country Cafe, a charming library filled with Breese’s treasured collection, and a fully equipped conference room on the upper floor. Plus, there are 4-star self-catering stone cottages nearby, providing comfortable accommodation.

This diverse collection of breathtaking spaces is managed by a close-knit team of passionate and experienced individuals who feel like family rather than mere colleagues. Their attention to detail is evident in every aspect of your stay, from the warm handwritten welcome notes to the thoughtful electric turn downs at bedtime. You’ll find solar lanterns illuminating the property, wool and knitting needles as part of a local empowerment initiative, delicate flower petals adorning the rooms, and homemade bath salts for a soothing and luxurious bath experience.

Welcome to Mosaic Private Sanctuary

Discover Lagoon Lodge

At Mosaic’s Lagoon Lodge, you can enjoy a wonderful experience at a surprisingly affordable price of just R2800 per night. This includes luxurious accommodation, a delightful three-course dinner, a scrumptious breakfast, and an array of exciting activities. If you have the time, I highly recommend extending your stay to take full advantage of everything this place has to offer.

Whether you’re in the mood to relax and unwind by the heated pool or indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, or if you’re an adventure seeker looking for some thrill with quad bikes and cave tours, there’s something here for everyone. And let’s not forget about the breathtaking sunset cruises and adventurous picnic outings. If none of these activities entice you, you can always sit back, gaze at the mesmerizing horizon, and get lost in a good book or even write your own captivating memoirs. The team at Mosaic knows how to create magic and leave you in awe.

Explore Self-Catering Cottages

If you prefer a more independent stay, Mosaic offers three self-catering cottages. These cottages can accommodate between two and nine people, making them perfect for couples, families, or even a group of friends. The rates for these cottages start at just R720 per night, making them an excellent option for those on a budget or looking for a more flexible accommodation.

Contact Us

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