Upper Mountain Cottage is a semi-detached portion of mountain house in a hectare of mature garden and fynbos. Its natural materials such as sundried earth walls, timber from onsite, and green roof respond to the nearby mountains. Natural swimmable ponds, provide an oasis for birds and wildlife. The living and kitchen spaces open onto stoeps with a choice of sunshine or shade, garden or sea views. Guests have seasonal access to the swimmable reservoir ponds and year long access to the gardens . The space Upper mountain cottage is the upper ground level wing of mountain house. It is surrounded by gardens with a wide, sunset sea view from the living room. Sleeping: There is a bedroom with a kingsize bed. An additional small std single mattress sofa type bed can be pre-arranged in the living area. Cooking: A small simple kitchen area includes a gas hob, a combi oven ( microwave and baking), a fridge, freezer, hand sink, washing machine and sufficient cooking utensils (pots, pans etc) for the preparation of simple meals (not elaborate baking). Other: A TV screen (monitor and HDMI) is provided but you will need to bring your own box/laptop. Equipment for small children such as a cot can also be arranged ahead on request. Feel free to enjoy the family books and games during your stay Pets: We may be able to accommodate sociable pets at a small fee, but only with prior consultation please. There are other people (and children) living on the small holding and moving through their parts of the shared open garden spaces so everyone's safety and comfort is important. We also like to let other residents know ahead if they need to keep their pets separate in their private garden spaces during your stay. We do have an enclosed external area adjoining the bedroom door for guests' dogs. However, sociable pets with mindful owners generally have a great time using the shared open garden space with (or without) the other resident dogs. It is a lovely place for dogs and their caring owners so thanks for reading this. Guest access Guests will have shared seasonal access to the swimming pond/reservoir pool and gardens. As all residents share the gardens, sensitivity to each other's privacy is appreciated. It is important to note that use of the ponds and gardens are at guests' own risk. No dogs are allowed in the pond areas and children must be accompanied at all times. Other things to note The swimmable pond is not a normal swimming pool. It is a natural, chemical free pool with additional planted filter ponds. The level of the reservoir ponds will vary but they can be topped up by prior request in the summer months. During the winter the ponds respond to rainfall levels. The ponds are lined with reservoir grade HDPE (strong black plastic) rather than concrete and water plants are still growing in. The ponds are home to their own little eco systems including mosquito eating frogs, (our friends), also providing a wonderful oasis for the birds.