Abraca, Scarborough: A magical embrace

Discovering the Magic of Abraça

Scarborough, just a 45-minute drive from Cape Town, is ironically distanced from Cape Town’s city centre’s somewhat flashy and trendy pace. Privacy and calm are central to the community, with a close-knit group of residents and a few local shops creating an environment that feels both inviting and low-key. If you live here, it’s a place you want to visit when you need something that delivers all the beauty Cape Town has to offer, but way more earthy.

Let’s be clear, however, earthy doesn’t mean you can’t weekend in luxury.

The name Abraça, inspired by the word ’embrace’ or ‘hug’, hints at the sense of wonder that defines one of Scarborough’s sublime secrets — a  place where exceptional feels weirdly effortless, both inside and outside the property. Outside you feel the rhythm of life is guided by the tides and the fynbos rustling in the breeze, but inside Abraca holds an energy that is so homely and natural.

Originally the home of Boyd Ferguson, a notable figure in South African interior design, Abraça is now owned by Megan de Beyer. While I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting Megan, spending a weekend in her home reveals much about her. The thoughtful details throughout the decor tell a story, setting a distinct tone for this remarkable property. Just in the passage from the front door to the kitchen, a sunlit Balinese console with an open book offers daily wisdom—a small ritual that draws you into the home’s rhythm.

The L-shaped design of the house is both innovative and functional. Spanning three levels, it offers multiple gathering spots, from the braai area and poolside lounge to the sundowner patio deck. A firepit and relaxation zone outside the bedrooms provide ideal spots for morning coffee or evening stargazing. The mix of Buddha statues, incense, a bar fridge, and a coffee station reflects the home’s unique charm, inviting you to explore and discover in your own way.

Every detail, from the smallest accessory to the thoughtful layout, is designed to deepen the experience of your stay. The home has such care and grace, with amenities that range from sun creams and firewood to an espresso maker and air fryer. The materials throughout — stone cladding, concrete flooring, and Balinese roll-down blinds—create a cohesive blend of textures that add warmth and comfort.

Scarborough’s allure is not just in its natural setting but also in its vibrant community. The Whole Earth Café is a popular spot for breakfast while The Village Hub, a local favourite, features a café, restaurant, and a deli. Every Saturday, both The Hub and Camel Rock host organic produce markets, and Camel Rock’s relaxed atmosphere and excellent pizzas make it a familiar gathering place.

The Hub also rents both handmade wooden bikes and electric bikes, perfect for exploring the area’s scenic routes. Several hiking trails in Baskloof Private Nature Reserve are nearby, with permits available. No visit to Scarborough is complete without exploring Cape Point’s stunning beaches, followed by tea and scones at The Scone Shack at the Lalapanzi Nursery.

Back at Abraça, the house caters effortlessly to its guests. The family quarters on the lower garden level accommodate four, sharing a spacious bathroom, while the loft suite on the upper level offers privacy for a couple or solo traveller. Two generous en-suite bedrooms on the ground floor, close to the kitchen and indoor/outdoor living areas, ensure up to ten guests are comfortably accommodated.

Common areas are thoughtfully designed for both socialising and solitude. An open-plan kitchen, dining area, and fireplace lead to a covered outdoor BBQ, pool lounge, and a striking rectangular stone pool. Nearby, a communal firepit with classic safari chairs invites stargazing and storytelling. The expansive garden, linked to the living spaces by three large covered verandas, offers a series of outdoor rooms perfect for relaxation, conversation, and perhaps contemplation.

Upstairs, a double living room with a TV and a fireside area has a mini-bar and coffee station. The wraparound veranda off the living room is ideal for sundowners, offering an elevated view.

Megan has invested parts of herself, but it’s clearly something she is willing to share in how welcoming the home presents. Abraça encourages you to linger, discover its many layers, and connect with the beauty of its surroundings and the warmth of its hospitality.

Quite magical.

The house is available through Perfect Hideaways. Link: https://www.perfecthideaways.co.za/hideaway-scarborough/abraca/