Being a native to Plettenberg Bay… well... at least a local for a little more than a year… I was blessed to reside in arguably one of the best spots along the famous Garden Route – South Africa’s most scenic and visited regions. Pristine nature, beautiful bays and an uncanny amount of Blue Flag beaches were right on my doorstep. There are also loads of animal sanctuaries to visit and activities to keep you busy. I thought I had discovered every gem that this dazzling seaside town had to offer. That was, until, I had the opportunity to savour a sumptuous stay at The Plettenberg Hotel. All I can say is WOW, WOW, WOW! I was blown away.
Plett boasting ocean vistas and nature as far as the eye can see, Photo credit: Marlin Clark
A Garden Route Winner
The five-star Plettenberg Hotel is easily accessible and ideally located along the Garden Route. A road trip from Cape Town will get you there in under six hours – with plenty of exciting stops on the way! Charming cafés, farm stalls, seaside hamlets and awe-inspiring view-points provide inviting road-side intervals as you make your way to Plettenberg Bay (affectionately known as Plett). Even more convenient – and if you are not a lover of lengthy drives – the town of George (dubbed the “Gateway to the Garden Route”) houses a well-established airport facilitating inbound and outbound flights daily and is only an hour and a half-drive away from Plett. The same can be said for Port Elizabeth, just over two hours away.
Arriving in Plett it’s hard to miss its iconic whale-tale roundabout sculpture, Photo credit: Marlin Clark
Jaw-dropping first Impressions
Arriving at The Plettenberg Hotel, Katharina, Ian, Marlin (my travel companions) and I are warmly welcomed by wonderfully friendly and attentive staff. The lobby is airy, bright and beautifully decorated. There is definitely a beachside feel to all the design elements without being kitsch and “themey”. In fact, it’s refreshingly unique and one can clearly see that a lot of love and thought has been put into every aspect.
The Plettenberg Hotel entrance, Photo credit: Marlin Clark
Unique and elegant decor echoes throughout the property, Photo credit: Marlin Clark
We are swiftly escorted into a seating area alongside the lobby, and we eagerly make ourselves comfortable on the soft, deep-set sofas. Before I know it, an ice cold welcome drink is placed before me and all Covid as well as check-in protocols are conducted swiftly and with ease. MJ (the exceedingly hospitable General Manager) joins us, introduces himself and makes sure we feel at home before we make our way to our rooms. I can’t help but think “I’m going to like it here”.
Lounge area features comfortable seating, a fireplace, small library and board games, Photo credit: Marlin Clark
A Hotel “Above” the Rest
MJ gives us a tour of The Plettenberg’s main facilities. Beyond the lobby we walk past the elegant Sandbar where expertly mixed cocktails and award-winning wines can be enjoyed. A few steps further we come upon the hotel’s restaurant, called The Seafood. Drawing inspiration from the marine life that can be found in Plettenberg Bay, The Seafood’s indoor dining section features modern finishings, large glass sliding doors, and exudes an elegant romantic atmosphere. Tables are beautifully spaced which add to a private dining experience. The food is also absolutely amazing, so much so it warrants a feature of its own.
The restaurant’s indoor dining section offers beautiful views of the pool and ocean, Photo credit: The Plettenberg Hotel
The indoor sitting area extends to the outdoor terrace and infinity pool. My jaw simply drops. It is only now that I realize that The Plettenberg Hotel is built on the edge of rocky headland HIGH above the extensive beach and ocean beyond. The ocean vistas are by far the best I’ve ever seen in Plettenberg Bay.
The outside terrace is perfect to bask in the sun during breakfast, Photo credit: The Plettenberg Hotel
Katharina admiring the view and spotting whales breaching in the distance, Photo credit: Marlin Clark
Our own private hideaway - stylish and comfortable
Whether you are a couple, family or group of friends, The Plettenberg has a number of room categories to captivate every preference. From luxury rooms, spacious suites and exclusive villas; there is sure to be a perfect space just for you.
Making our way to our accommodations for the evening, we are pleasantly surprised to discover that we are staying in the Lookout Villa. One of the most exclusive accommodation options at The Plettenberg, the Lookout Villa is set parallel to the main hotel and enjoys its own pool with spectacular ocean views. With three en-suite bedrooms, a spacious open-plan lounge, dining area, and well-stocked galley kitchen, the villa is extremely private with plenty of space to socialize with your most favorite people.
Private pool with ocean views at the Lookout Villa, Photo credit: The Plettenberg Hotel
Lookout Villa master bedroom en-suite, Photo credit: The Plettenberg Hotel
A Dinner to Die for
We are reluctant to leave our stunning beach sanctuary, but eventually we tear ourselves away. When dinner calls from one of the most acclaimed restaurants in Plettenberg Bay, it’s hard to resist.
Back at SeaFood, dinner is a candle-lit affair with soft music playing in the background. We take our seats around an immaculately-set table and wait in anticipation for the gastronomic delights to come. Meals are made with only the freshest ingredients from local suppliers and lean towards the gourmet. The Executive Chef and passionate kitchen team certainly impressed. From succulent fillet and sustainable salmon to melt-in-your-mouth cheese or chocolate soufflés – coupled with a carefully curated wine list of course – each delicious morsel was prepared to perfection!
The SeaFood menu reflect a taste of the bay and superb signature dishes, Photo credit: Marlin Clark
Aesthetically balanced chocolate soufflé at The Plettenberg Hotel’s SeaFood restaurant, Photo credit: Marlin Clark
Overall Impressions
The next morning, after an amazing night’s rest, we enjoy breakfast on the outside terrace. A cool ocean breeze greets us as the sun shines in a clear blue sky. I sip on a fragrant cappuccino, take in the views, and reflect back on our stay with the beautiful Plettenberg Hotel.
With friendly and enthusiastic staff, wonderful facilities, delectable dining, exquisite rooms and unparalleled views, I wish I could stay indefinitely. Whether you are staying in a room, suite or villa, The Plettenberg Hotel truly feels like your very own beach hideaway. With so much to do in and around Plettenberg Bay, I can easily recommend staying a week! However, if your time is limited, three nights should suffice to fully appreciate everything on offer. Don’t miss out on a fabulous stay at The Plettenberg Hotel. Contact us, and let one of our Travel Experts help you plan a magical trip along the Garden Route.
The Plettenberg Hotel Highlights
- Exclusive restaurant on site offering some of the best seafood in the area
- Arguably some of the best ocean views available
- It’s position on the headland keeps it secluded and private
- Two refreshing pools, a pampering spa, and an elegant boutique
- Family friendly with welcome packs for kids
- Pet friendly – treating your fur-baby as part of the family
The Plettenberg Hotel is ideal for...
Everyone! Couples will love the privacy and tranquility of the hotel facilities. Families can enjoy many activities in and around the area. Groups of friends will love the exclusivity of the villas. Dog lovers can bring their fur-babies along for a five-star hotel experience.
Featured image: The Plettenberg Hotel
