Home sweet holiday home

Some South Africans go on holiday to different places every year, but a select few head to their traditional family holiday home that has been in their family for decades – or generations.

In 1982, architect Gerald Gordon made a bold decision that would shape the future of his family. He purchased a stand on a mountain slope in Plettenberg Bay for R12 500. “It was considered a bargain even then,” says Julie Leibowitz, his daughter. His vision to transform the site into a holiday home held firm. “Even though the location was believed to be unbuildable, my dad was undeterred.”

A year later, the family spent their first holiday there. “The windows weren’t even in place, but my parents, in true gung-ho spirit, decided it was okay to stay,” Leibowitz recalled. This had the neighbours raising concerns, claiming they were “camping on their property”, and they received a letter of eviction from the council. In spite of this, the house became a treasured home in which three generations still gather.

This year, they welcome nephews from New Zealand. “It’s always served as the central meeting point for family who are spread across the globe,” she says.

The home holds many memories, from simple joys like the annual lighting of the chanukiah to unexpected surprises, like the time baboons invaded the house and a snake appeared in a bedroom. Every corner tells a story – from hand-painted artwork by Julie’s sister and father, to a timeline of family photographs.

“It’s equipped for beach adventures, with canoes, surfboards, and umbrellas all stored, so we don’t have to shlep too much from Joburg,” says Leibowitz.

For Leibowitz and her family, taking on the costs of rates and maintenance makes more financial sense than the sky-rocketing seasonal costs of coastal rentals. Plus, it’s theirs all year round.

“The surrounding area has transformed dramatically, but the charm of Plettenberg Bay remains intact,” says Leibowitz, who describes it as “a mix of natural beauty and modern convenience”.

“Plett has always held a special place in my family’s life,” shares Marc Lubner, who has cherished memories of his family’s home. “My late dad used to bring us here when we were teenagers, back when it was still a fishing village with just a few ramshackle homes overlooking the beauty of the bay.

“Our first holiday home had outside bedrooms with one shared inside bathroom, which made for a very real shared family experience,” he recalls. “But our evenings were spent together with none of the distractions of restaurants or movie theatres, and days were spent exploring the beaches, surfing, and hiking or biking in the mountains.”

The Lubners’ current family home in Plett was purchased 30 years ago, prompted by changes in their original cliffside property. “Our first house in the village became impacted by a neighbour who defied building regulations and disrupted our views and peace,” he recalls.

Determined to find a new haven, Lubner and his brothers discovered a remote plot. Formerly a caravan park, the area was to be developed into a residential estate. “The caravan park itself held special memories for me as a boy – it was my refuge from the chaos of our original holiday home,” he shares. The family purchased the land in March 2006, and began building.

Together with other home owners, the family purchased adjacent land near the vlei to preserve it as a nature reserve. Brother, Tony, was instrumental in having the bay declared a marine reserve, and continues to educate the local township community on maintaining clean rivers.

“We spent every December, Pesach, and Yom Kippur here,” says Lubner, inviting both Jewish and non-Jewish friends to share in the principles and passion of the family’s faith.

As the family expanded, his sister built an adjoining house. The two homes function seamlessly, often housing three generations at any given time.

“Our large kitchen table is the heart of the home – always full of love, food, and festivity. I have treasured memories sitting with my late dad, discussing life and business and everything in between.”

Today, Lubner’s 90-year-old mother lives there permanently, having moved during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“One of my favourite sights in the world is seeing my dear mom standing up on the garden bench to get a better view of dolphins or whales in the bay. It’s such a magical spot that reminds us of how blessed we are,” Marc says.

Located in the heart of Mpumalanga near Dullstroom, a stone farmhouse has been a beloved family sanctuary since 1948. The property was purchased by Sam Jaff, the grandfather of a well-known Cape Town community leader. It has remained a cherished retreat for three generations.

“My grandfather was a visionary,” reflects his granddaughter. “His love for birdwatching and trout fishing drew him to the area before it was well-known. He sought peace and wellness in nature, long before mindfulness became a trend.”

Back then, a four-hour drive on dirt roads led to the remote property amidst a sprawling gumtree forest. There was no electricity, no cell phone signal, no modern conveniences. Yet, the large stoep, the wood-burning stove, and well-stocked river still provide the perfect escape from the city.

“My grandfather’s greatest gift was teaching us that life doesn’t require much to be enjoyed. Time spent there taught us the value of nature and family,” she says.

Over the years, they added an ensuite bedroom and electricity, yet the home’s rustic charm remains. “There’s still no cell phone signal, which, honestly, is the best part,” she says.

Though the family once considered selling it, the sentimental value of the farmhouse prevailed. “We often joke that the farmhouse should’ve fallen down by now,” she laughs. But it stands strong, like the memories they still make there.