The Best Places to Stay in Plettenberg Bay

A fatally appealing combination of natural beauty and luxe glamour, this exclusive coastal resort 600 kilometres east of Cape Town on the world-famous Garden Route is, unsurprisingly, a favourite for holidaymakers. Boasting some of the most beautiful golden-sand beaches on the planet and a fynbos reserve with spectacular cliffside hikes, Plett is also home to a clutch of top-drawer accommodations and stylish places to eat and drink, making it more than just a beach break.

Coastal splendour aside, Plett’s varied topography – mountains, indigenous forests and rivers – means that you can wake up in luxury and take advantage of the slew of outdoor activities in the area.

From beach bungalows and treetop lodges to five-star resorts and a private game farm, Plett has a variety of accommodation types that’ll keep you coming back again and again.

Which are your favourite? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Belle Balance

Setting When one thinks of Plettenberg Bay, wading hippos and galloping red hartebees do not come into it. But, actually, there’s a lot more to the Garden Route than golden beaches and amazing swimming. Tucked away on a private game reserve in the Bitou River Valley is Belle Balance Bush Hideout, a tranquil and exclusive South African safari lodge where nature and comfort meets. Belle Balance Bush Hideout offers comfortable accommodation, exceptional hospitality, and breath-taking views of the untamed wilderness.

The lodgings

• 10 rooms
• 2 family units
• king or queen-size beds
• en-suite bathroom with a freestanding bathtub, rain shower and outdoor shower
• desk and seating area (indoor fireplaces in select suites)
• outdoor patio with views of the indigenous forest, mountains or wateringhole
• multiple shared lounge and relaxation areas
• outdoor fire boma and bar overlooking the wateringhole
• complimentary wifi (in main lodge and selected rooms)
• breakfast, lunch, dinner and fully licensed bar

Things to do

• swimming pool and sun loungers
• plunge pool
• on-site spa treatments
• game drives and game viewing
• forest walks
• Shops and restaurants a 25-minute drive away

Child friendly? Yes, 12 years and older (children of all ages welcome if booking out entire property)
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 per room and 4 per family unit
Cost From R4 370 per room per night for two people sharing (depending on season and room type, includes breakfast)
Where to find it Inside Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve, Uplands Road, Wittedrift, Plettenberg Bay
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

The Old Rectory

Setting Just a short stroll from the ever-popular Hobie Beach, this boutique retreat is built around an 18th-century national monument (the oldest building in Plett, built in 1777), resulting in an appealing combination of heritage and modern style. The beautifully decorated suites are light-filled and airy, with private terraces overlooking the pool and milkwood trees. There is also a spa for pampering, and a cosy bar and restaurant on site, offering a wonderfully peaceful oasis in a sought-after seaside location.

The lodgings

• 18 suites with king-sized beds (divided into pool or garden suites)
• en-suite bathrooms with a rain shower (pool suites also have a large bath)
• private outdoor terrace (pool suites) and private garden (garden suites)
• private foyer connecting some suites into one unit for a family or group stay
• tea- + coffee-making facilities
• air conditioning
• complimentary wifi
• daily breakfast

Things to do

• on-site restaurant serving lunch and dinner
• swimming pool and sun loungers
• private beach picnics
• massages and treatments at the on-site spa
• bar
• beach access just a short walk away
• nearby shops and restaurants

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 per suite
Cost From R3 200 per suite per night (rates valid until 31 March 2022, includes breakfast)
Where to find it Corner Bull and Meeding streets, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
MAKE A RESERVATION

Bobbejaanskloof

Setting Driving out of Plett along the winding roads, over the Keurbooms and Bitou Rivers towards the fynbos-dotted hills of the Tsitsikamma Mountains, one does not expect to stumble upon Bobbejaanskloof Private Nature Reserve. Home to a characterful farmhouse that has been expertly renovated, the 150-hectare escape offers a one-of-a-kind experience for those seeking a holiday with unperturbed majesty. Utterly warm and welcoming house manager, Tendi Chiwa, is on hand to assist with anything you may need during your stay, so that you may simply kick back, relax and listen to the surrounding birdsong and wind rustling through the eaves of the shaded stoep.

The lodgings

• 5-bedroom farmhouse residence
• 1 separate 3-bedroom Nguni cottage (booked in addition to the farmhouse or not at all)
• 1 king-sized bed in the main bedroom, 1 king in second main room, 3 three-quarter bedrooms (that can be changed to a king in the family suite) and a pull-out lounger that creates a double (the family suite can accommodate 3)
• en-suite bathrooms with a freestanding bath and shower
• spacious lounge and relaxation areas
• fully equipped kitchen with Smeg appliances
• 10-seater indoor and outdoor dining areas
• 2 shaded verandahs with plush couches
• indoor fireplaces
• courtyard and outdoor built-in-braai and firepit area next to the dam
• ceiling fans
• complimentary wifi
• daily breakfast

Things to do

• Jeep track paths for mountain-biking
• hiking routes and farm walks
• 12km running path
• swimming pool with loungers and a gazebo
• fully equipped yoga barn, outdoor shower and small gym
• soccer or touch-rugby field
• botanical gardens
•  a succulent nursery
• endless viewpoints
• Big 5 game viewing, horse riding, polo and wine-tasting nearby
• centre of town only 20 minutes away
• a serviced braai under the stars at the dam boma or around the firepit is optional

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes, on request
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 10 to 16
Cost From R18 000 per night for the main house (includes breakfast and activities)
From R25 000 per night for the whole property (includes cottage, breakfast and activities)
Where to find it R340, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
MAKE A RESERVATION

The Plettenberg Hotel

Setting The Plettenberg is a grand five-star escape perched on a rocky headland that overlooks a long stretch of unspoilt beach and fynbos-covered mountains. Part of The Liz McGrath Collection (which includes The Cellars-Hohenort and The Marine Hotel, also members of Small Luxury Hotels of The World), this seaside escape offers a classic stay with heavenly views to match. The sophisticated, seaside-inspired decor echoes its location, and no matter which room you’re in, you’re guaranteed a sumptuous stay.

The lodgings

• double rooms (non-sea view), luxury double rooms (some with sea views), suites + premier suites (with step-out balconies and an open-plan lounge)
• flat-screen TV with select DStv channels
• drink on arrival
• select complimentary minibar items
• fluffy bathrobes and luxury bathroom amenities
• tea- + coffee-making facilities
• air conditioning
• complimentary wifi
• daily breakfast

Things to do

• cocktails, wines, bubbly and spirits at Sandbar
• Fresh Wellness Spa
• high tea in the Blue Room, Garden Room or on the restaurant terrace
• nearby beaches
• shops, restaurants + bars in town centre

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 to 3 per room/ suite
Cost From R3 680 per room per night (depending on season and room type, includes breakfast)
Where to find it 40 Church Street, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
MAKE A RESERVATION

The Bungalow

Setting Overlooking the popular Hobie Beach, where the sound of crashing waves and chirping birds blend seamlessly with the light chatter of holidaymakers, this shore-hugging boutique getaway is the perfect place for beach lovers who long to be near the action. Home to a buzzy restaurant, bar and Bali-style relaxation areas, The Bungalow is a fun picture-perfect holiday hangout.

The lodgings

• 6 rooms (The Lookout, The Wedge, Hobie, Cliff-Side 1, Cliff-Side 2 + Cliff-Side 3) with either one or two bedrooms each
• Bungalow 2 features The Bay (2 bedrooms, lounge, kitchen, dining room, bathroom + guest toilet), The Cove (1 bedroom, en-suite bathroom, small lounge area) + The Beach (2 bedrooms, 4 pods for children, bathroom + shared lounge area)
• The Spot self-catering villa sleeping 6
• en-suite bathrooms with a shower
• private patio
• smart TV with Showmax and DStv
• tea- + coffee-making facilities
• desk area
• communal relaxation areas
• air conditioning
• complimentary wifi
• daily breakfast

Things to do

• sea-facing swimming pool
• fire boma and entertainment lounge
• on-site restaurant and cocktail bar
• Hobie Beach
• birdwatching
• boating
• water sports
• nature walks and hiking trails
• cycling
• fishing
• surrounding shops and restaurants

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 to 4 per room
6 in the villa
Cost From R2 900 per night (depending on season and room type, includes breakfast)
Where to find it 5 Meeding Street, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Emily Moon River Lodge

Setting Set in an indigenous garden, overlooking the Bitou River, with a backdrop of mountains and valleys, this tranquil retreat is dressed in a selection of rare finds that passionate owners Mark and Christine Valentine have accumulated during their travels through Africa and beyond. The luxury suites offer an undeniable sense of comfort, with unique interiors and stunning views of the flowing river below. Wake up to the sound of birdsong as you enjoy a coffee by the crackling fire in winter, or wind down with a sundowner on your private deck as you soak up the spectacular surroundings.

The lodgings

• 6 deluxe luxury suites
• 8 luxury suites
• 2 family suites
• each suite has its own private deck overlooking the Bitou River
• en-suite bathrooms with a bath and shower
• spacious living area
• fireplace or air conditioning
• minibar
• satellite TV
• tea- + coffee-making facilities
• complimentary wifi
• daily breakfast

Things to do

• communal swimming pool with deck chairs
• Simon’s Bar (known for its excellent wood-fired pizzas)
• Emily’s Restaurant
• canoeing and fishing on the Bitou River (canoes provided)
• access to hiking and mountain biking trails
• nearby golf courses
• Old Nick Shopping Village nearby

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 to 4 per suite
Cost From R1 820 per night per person sharing, (depending on season, includes breakfast)
Where to find it Rietvlei Road, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
MAKE A RESERVATION

Fairview House

Setting Set on a 28-hectare headland at The Crags (between Plettenberg Bay and Nature’s Valley), every window at Fairview House frames endless views over fynbos-clad slopes and the Keurbooms indigenous forest to the Tsitsikamma Mountains. All this peace and nature feels like it’s miles from anywhere, but it’s only a short drive from the beach and nature hotspots of the two neighbouring beach resorts, making the ideal base for exploration if you can tear yourself away.

The lodgings

• 2 bedrooms in the Main House (standard room and luxury room)
• 6 rooms in the Coach House (2 deluxe family suites and 4 luxury garden rooms: 2 king, 2 twin)
• en-suite bathroom with a bath and shower
• private patio or balcony
• study nook and seating area
• smart TV with select DStv channels
• tea- + coffee-making facilities
• shared dining room and lounge with an indoor fireplace
• view-drenched verandah
• air conditioning
• complimentary wifi
• daily breakfast

Things to do

• hiking and mountain biking
• swimming pool and sun loungers
• fynbos garden and reading nooks
• 10-minute drive to Plett centre
• 15-minute drive to Nature’s Valley
• nearby animal sanctuaries and adventure activities

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 per room
Cost From R3 000 per room per night (depending on season and room type, includes breakfast)
Where to find it Fairview Farm, N2, The Crags, Western Cape
MAKE A RESERVATION

Sky Villa Boutique Hotel

Setting Perched on a hilltop in the exclusive Baron’s View Estate, boasting 360-degree views over mountains, the ocean and the Keurbooms lagoon, this contemporary boutique hotel offers the best of both worlds – five-star lodgings five minutes from the centre of Plett as well as a feeling of being far removed from the hustle and bustle. Part of the Raw Africa Boutique Collection, this view-drenched sojourn combines eclectic decor, A-list amenities and attentive service with a sought-after sense of tranquility.

The lodgings

• 14 rooms with king-sized beds (Mountain-Facing, Sea-Facing, Deluxe Suite, Honeymoon Suite and Presidential Suite)
• en-suite bathroom with a shower (freestanding bath in suites)
• private terrace facing the mountain or ocean beyond
• tea and coffee station with Nespresso machine
  minibar fridge
• flat-screen TV with select DStv channels
• open-plan lounge area with an indoor fireplace (in Presidential and Honeymoon suites only)
• shared lounge and relaxation areas
• air conditioning and underfloor heating
• complimentary wifi
• daily breakfast

Things to do

• swimming pool deck with sun loungers
• fully stocked indoor and rooftop bar
• on-site restaurant (serving lunch and dinner)
• fully equipped on-site gym
• wine cellar
• surfing and swimming
• beach and nature walks
• cycling and mountain biking

Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 per room/ suite
Cost From R2 400 per room per night (depending on season and room type, includes breakfast)
Where to find it Baron’s View Estate, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Tsala Treetop Lodge

Setting Hidden among the treetops of the Tsitsikamma Forest, Tsala exudes an aura of mysticism and ancient wonder. Elevated wooden walkways connect the various suites and villas, which offer creature comforts and solitude. Wherever you are in the lodge – whether you’re sitting in the lounge by the fireplace, relaxing in the pool or enjoying meals in the glass-walled dining room, you can look around and be reminded that you are, in fact, several metres above ground level.

The lodgings

• 10 one-bedroom suites with a king-sized bed (sleeping 2 adults)
• 6 villas two-bedroom villas with king-sized beds (sleeping 4 adults or 2 adults + 2 children)
• bathroom with a freestanding bath, rain shower and outdoor heated shower
• spacious indoor seating area
• wood-burning clay fireplace
• tea- + coffee-making facilities
• private front-facing outdoor deck with a seating area
• second suite-facing outdoor deck with deck chairs and a private plunge pool
• complimentary canapés and bottle of wine on arrival
• complimentary minibar items
• air conditioning and heating
• complimentary wifi
• breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily in Tsala Restaurant

Things to do

• private plunge pools in each suite
• in-room spa treatments
• Zinzi Restaurant (for a fine-dining experience) a short stroll away
• surrounding hiking and mountain biking trails
• nearby Birds of Eden sanctuary and Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary

Child friendly? Yes (children over 10 years)
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 per suite
4 per villa
Cost Suites: From R15 800 per night (depending on season)
Villas: From R19 600 per night (depending on season)
Where to find it 1km off N2 10km West Of Plettenberg Bay, 20kms East of Knysna, Western Cape
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Tamodi Lodge & Stables

Setting What began as an equestrian farm, with magnificent views of the Tsitsikamma Mountains and surrounding valley, now serves as a haven for horses and their human counterparts. Started by animal-loving couple Lynne and Owen Johnston, this covetable Crags property is now run by daughter Chelsea Atherstone and her husband Scott. The spacious lodge, warmed by fireplaces and a lovely laidback interior, is rich in rustic charm and a homely atmosphere; and the sight of horses grazing as you enter the estate sets the scene for countryside tranquility. The main lodge is rented as a villa for exclusive-use only, and there are a selection of separate luxury suites fit for two.

The lodgings

• 2 standard suites and a honeymoon suite in the main lodge (3 bedrooms)
• 2 freestanding honeymoon suites with an outdoor shower
• 2 freestanding luxe honeymoon suites with private plunge pools
• king-sized beds and en-suite bathrooms with a stone bath and shower
• private balconies
• tea- + coffee-making facilities
• 2 lounges, 3 indoor fireplaces and a reading room in the main lodge
• outdoor deck
• flatscreen TV with Netflix
• air conditioning
• complimentary wifi

Things to do

• in-suite continental breakfast (additional cost)
• swimming pool and sun loungers (exclusive to the main lodge)
• private plunge pools in the suites
• gardens and dams
• Equestrian Farm (though horse rides are not on offer, guests are welcome to explore the estate)
• hiking and mountain-biking in the surrounding valley
• on-site wine-tasting
• birdwatching
• kloofing routes in The Crags
• nearby restaurants and beaches

Good to know Looking for a more exclusive experience? You can book out the entire main lodge for the duration of your stay.
Child friendly? Yes, 10 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 per suite
6 when booking out the main lodge
Cost From R4 000 per suite per night in a free-standing or luxury suite (depending on season and suite type)
From R 6 000 for the main lodge villa (depending on season)
Where to find it Pinehaven Road, Keurboom Heights, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

The Junction Boutique Hotel

Setting You can’t get closer to the slew of attractions on Plett’s main strip than at this modern hotel. Situated on the main road, a short walk from nearby beaches, The Junction is the perfect place to rest your head after a day adventuring around town. Home to a series of contemporary rooms, the boutique escape has a decidedly cosmopolitan feel, creating a comfortable nest where city slickers will feel right at home settling in for a few days.

The lodgings

• 10 rooms (Deluxe King Suites, Studio Suites, Double Rooms and a Deluxe Studio Suite)
• king-sized bed and an en-suite bathroom with a shower
• private patio
• small lounge area
• flat-screen smart TV
• minibar with select soft drinks and water
• SMEG kettle with coffee and tea station
• SMEG refrigerator
• complimentary wifi
• daily breakfast

Things to do

• The Junction Café serving lunch
• shops, bars and restaurants on your doorstep
• surrounding beaches

Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 per room
Cost R2 500 per room per night for two people sharing (depending on season and room type)
Where to find it 17 Main Street, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
MAKE A RESERVATION

AfriCamps at Ingwe

Setting Situated in the breathtakingly beautiful Crags, the elevated tents at Ingwe offer unhindered views of the Tsitsikamma Mountain Range and surrounding valleys. It’s the ideal base from which to explore Plett, Knysna and the Tsitsikamma National Park.

The lodgings

• 6 boutique glamping tents
• each tent has 2 extra-length queen-sized beds and a single bunk bed
• each tent has a large deck with outdoor seating and a pit braai
• fully equipped kitchen and en-suite bathroom
• indoor fireplace
• air conditioning and electric blankets
• 3 tents feature their own outdoor wood-fired hot tub

Things to do

• private hot tub
• communal swimming pool
• hiking and mountain biking
• Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, Jukani Wildlife Centre and horse riding nearby
• short driving distance from Blue Flag beaches
• cook-your-own breakfast baskets (additional cost)
• cook-your-own South African braai baskets (additional cost)

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? No
Sleeps 5 per tent
Cost From R1 190 per night for 2 adults (depending on season and tent type)
Where to find it N2, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Barrington’s Small Hotel

Setting Chances are if you’ve been to Plett, you’ve heard of Barrington’s – if not for its accommodation, for its dining options. A destination in itself, this Piesang Valley favourite is home to the first craft brewery in town, as well as a wonderfully scenic kitchen garden, restaurant, bar, bakery and grocer. Roll out of one of the stylishly adorned beds inside the small hotel and wake to everything you need right on your doorstep – with a bevvy of beaches and surrounding nature trails a short drive away.

The lodgings

• 10 rooms (Deluxe rooms overlooking the garden or riverbank, and Standard rooms overlooking the back of Barringtons)
• king-sized bed (can be made into twins)
• en-suite bathroom with a shower
• ceiling fans and air conditioning
• flat-screen TV with select DStv channels
• desk area
• private balconies and day beds (in Deluxe rooms only)
• complimentary wifi

Things to do

• on-site craft beer brewery
• kitchen garden
• restaurant
• bar
• bakery
• grocer
• surrounding beaches and nature walks
• nearby shops and restaurants

Child friendly? No
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 per room
Cost From R820 per night per person sharing (depending on season and room type)
Where to find it Barrington’s, Piesang Valley Road, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Trogon House & Forest Spa

Setting Tucked among the lush trees of a private indigenous forest, this elevated escape is the dream destination for couples seeking peace and privacy. Made from thatch, stone and natural materials, this unique getaway embraces the forest with glass walls and sky-lit roofs, inviting the outdoors in and creating a unique ambience. Fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the breeze whistling through leaves, before waking up to loeries and inquisitive Cape parrots peering in through your windows. A nature-lover’s dream, this lodge and spa will undoubtedly leave you with your head in the clouds.

The lodgings

• 5 suites (Malabar Master Suite, Standard Twin Suite, Deluxe Forest Suites and Honeymoon Suite)
• king-sized bed (can be made into twins)
• en-suite bathroom with a freestanding bath and/or shower
• small seating area
• flat-screen TV with select DStv channels
• tea- + coffee-making facilities
• minibar fridge
• electric blankets
• indoor fireplace (in Honeymoon Suite Only)
• communal lounges and relaxation areas
• complimentary wifi (in the main lodge)
• daily breakfast

Things to do

• on-site restaurant serving lunch and dinner
• swimming pool deck and sun loungers
• on-site spa
• spa experience, with candlelit jacuzzi, sauna and logfire
• flanking Monkeyland, Birds of Eden and The Elephant Sanctuary
• 15 minute drive from beaches and Plett centre

Child friendly? Yes, 12 years and older
Pet friendly? No
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 per suite
Cost From R1 912 per suite per night for two people sharing (depending on season and room type, includes breakfast)
Where to find it Animal Alley, (next to Monkeyland), The Crags, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
CHECK AVAILABILITY + BOOK DIRECT

Long Story Guest House

Setting Despite its name, the tale of this quaint sojourn is a short one: a private haven designed for ultimate comfort, a mere stroll from Robberg Beach. Passionate owner Chereen Fraser, together with welcoming managers Evans Banda and his wife Colnes, have created a warm, classic family beach house, with a stylish twist. Situated on a quiet residential street, with an intimate number of five suites each named after the different phases of a novel, this charming and eclectic guesthouse offers a wonderfully peaceful place to rest your head after a day spent exploring.

The lodgings

• 5 suites (New Story, Beginning, Middle, End, and Twist in The Tale)
• king-sized bed and en-suite bathroom with a rain shower (freestanding bath in select suites)
• minibar fridge
• flat-screen smart TV
• tea- + coffee-making facilities
• complimentary bottled water and sherry
• shared lounge and dining area
• air conditioning
• ceiling fans
• complimentary wifi
• daily breakfast

Things to do

• heated swimming pool and sun loungers
• vegetable garden and pizza oven
• mountain biking and hiking (bikes provided)
• Central, Lookout and Robberg Beaches nearby
• nearby shops and restaurants
• surrounding golf courses

Child friendly? Yes
Pet friendly? Yes
Wifi? Yes, free
Sleeps 2 per suite
Cost From R2 000 per suite per night for two people sharing (depending on season and suite type, includes breakfast)
Where to find it 8 Daedalus Reef Drive, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
MAKE A RESERVATION

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