Emily Moon River Lodge: A Dreamy Destination near Plett

Enchanting river views and an irresistible African magic all its own.

There’s a quirky, through-the-looking-glass enchantment to Emily Moon River Lodge. The intimate boutique hotel near Plettenberg Bay feels miles from anywhere, the Bitou River winding through its reed-filled wetland valley. Soul-restoring views capture the eye from the verandah, swimming pool and guest rooms clustered along the side of the ridge; an eclectic array of African art and artefacts (including carved wood doors and pillars) collected on owners Mark and Christine Valentine’s wanderings through Africa and Asia creates a multi-layered explorer ambience; and the scents of fynbos and soundtrack of bird life bring nature to your door… perhaps even a fish eagle swooping past in the magical early morning light.

It’s a place where legends are born (ask about the romantic tale of Emily Moon, a fanciful fiction that grows with each telling) and is a nature-lovers paradise set in indigenous gardens with winding paths to explore and intriguing steps leading down to the riverside.

Emily’s Restaurant

Farm-to-fork simplicity is the theme at relaxed and atmospheric Emily’s Restaurant. They grow most of their fresh produce in their own garden and source the rest from organic farmers in the area. Think Karoo rack of lamb, butter chicken samosas and a tasty Bali bowl, all beautifully presented.
Opening times Monday – Sunday, 6pm – 9pm (booking essential)
Book through DinePlan

Simon’s Bar

Just upstairs, with even better sunset views, Simon’s Bar is decorated with a quirky assortment of vintage boat engines, water sport equipment and other found objects. The bar comes alive in the evening as the wood-fired pizza oven is lit for crisp-based pizzas of all descriptions, and locals pop in for sundowners (the bartender shakes up a mean cocktail).
Opening times Tuesday – Saturday, 5pm – 9.30pm (opens from 12pm in high season – no reservations)

Accommodation

The luxury suites are tucked into the hillside overlooking the mesmerising river valley (except for two garden suites which compensate with a stunning private treehouse viewing deck each). Beautifully spacious, with a lounge area opening onto a private outdoor deck, each suite is uniquely decorated with the eclectic and welcoming charm that characterises the whole lodge.

The lodgings

6 deluxe luxury suites, 8 luxury suites, 2 family suites
each suite has its own private deck overlooking the Bitou River
ensuite bathrooms with a bath and shower
spacious living area
fireplace
air-conditioning
minibar
satellite TV
communal swimming pool with deck chairs

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes
Cost From R6 776 per night (for two people including breakfast)
MAKE A RESERVATION

Things to do

Hop onto one of the hotel’s canoes and drift up the Bitou River spotting birdlife or fishing, then lounge away the afternoon by the pool. Hike or take a mountain bike for a spin on the beautiful network of trails in the area, go whale-watching in winter, play a round of golf, or go wine-tasting around the boutique estates. Old Nick Shopping Village has something to tempt everyone, and of course Plett’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the country. Plus it’s an easy drive to Knysna in one direction and Nature’s Valley in the other if you’re in exploring mode.

Venue

Wild African romance is the order of the day at the multi-purpose Emily Moon events venue. It’s in hot demand for intimate weddings but has also hosted art exhibitions, conferences, seminars and theatrical productions over the years. Tie the knot in the open air on the picturesque River Deck, or indoors in the James Room set in its own tranquil garden. And book out Emily’s Restaurant for the reception.
Good to know They do elopements, too, if you want all the romance and none of the fuss.
Contact events@emilymoon.co.za
Enquire Now