Tintswalo at Boulders’ Penguin Encounters

The soft sound of Sky News plays in the background as I lie smugly in bed listening to the wind flow above the wooden rafters. It’s a clear night in False Bay, thanks to the autumn wind, yet I can’t help wondering if the penguins are more bothered by autumn chill? I’m not!

Tucked into the hillside behind Boulder’s Beach, we’ve just returned from a friend’s wedding in Kalk Bay to the warm comfort of the Tintswalo at Boulders guest house and I couldn’t be happier.

Staycations at Tintswalo Boulders

Tintswalo at Boulders is a luxury, seaside villa that serves 180 degree views across False Bay and has private access to Cape Town’s famous African penguins on Boulders beach. The villa offers bed & breakfast for 9 luxury suites, making it the perfect location to book exclusively for a large group or in portion for a mini break.

Drommedaris Suite

Having previously visited for a breakfast, I was quick to request the Drommedaris suite as it overlooks the penguin colony below and feels more like a self contained apartment than a guest bedroom.

When entering Drommedaris, a lounge is positioned on the right around a fireplace. A TV is angled in the bottom corner – perfect for anyone looking to start their day with the headlines and a cup of tea.

A writing desk separates the lounge area with the large bed placed opposite the sliding doors of the balcony, allowing for sky views. Guests can lie in bed and watch the light of the day develop or step outside for a semi-private balcony with access to splash pool and views across the bay.

The Drommedaris room is en suite and includes a large bath, shower and his and hers sinks – penguined themed, or course. Fresh daisies adorn the counter; a fresh, bright gesture that isn’t too imposing in the neat bathroom.

Our Tintswalo Boulders Review

We arrived in the late morning to take in all the exquisite blue hues across False Bay before attending a wedding in Kalk Bay. While we were delighted to join our friends on their special day, we felt a tinge of sadness to leave as Tintswalo is a unique location that entices you to settle in and stay (forever).

Taking our time to get ready and take in all the little details, the soft furnishings of our suite add a feeling of luxury while the ocean themed ornaments add a touch of personality without feeling “lived in”.

Sadly, we weren’t there long enough to use the outdoor swimming pool, but we saw another couple brave the fresh breeze for a drip.

Later in the evening we returned to the delightful sight of penguins sleeping in the hedges outside the house. Be careful when driving down the roads, they really do waddle around the area!

Retreating to our suite, I was delighted to jump into the queen/king sized bed – a must for when we’re away. If a good night’s rest isn’t guaranteed, we’re less likely to return. With a turndown service, mountain of pillows, fine linen and extra blankets, we slept soundlessly.

(Particular effort seems to have been made to ensure nothing rattles in the room – a much appreciated service as having grown up sleeping in my grandmother’s balcony in Fish Hoek, I know the wind can be challenging in False Bay!).

Breakfast Included

Breakfast begins with the sound of penguins honking in the bay below while waves crash on the surrounding boulders. While the villa does not have a permanent restaurant, guests can enjoy afternoon canapes and breakfast in the dining room or porch. The chef on site cooked our eggs benedict perfectly (no yolks please!), a good distraction from the continental breakfast spread which was just as enticing.

Final Impression

Tintswalo Lodges have the special gift of getting “location, location, location” right each and every time. From their spectacular Tintswalo Atlantic to Tintswalo at Boulders, the settings are guaranteed should you choose to visit.

The Tintswalo at Boulders Boutique Villa offers beautiful holiday accommodation for short or long term, small or large groups, exclusively or not – simply enquire.

It must be noted that the boutique hotel was originally a house, which means each room is slightly different, however, this can be an advantage for those travelling with kids as the downstairs area has a fully kitted out playroom/bedroom for children. The upstairs suites are more private and include blackout curtains for longer lie ins.

It’s wonderful to be able to see the penguins up close, with exclusive access to the beach through the garden gate. Tintswalo is perfect for a real break from the city without being too far out of town should you need to return at short notice. If sunny walks, a delicious bottle of wine and a good book is your type of break, then look not further.

Thank you to Boulders for hosting us for our visit.