Plettenberg Bay is one of the highlighted stops on the famous Garden Route. Nicknamed “Plett” by locals, it is one of the primary towns in the Western Cape Provence in South Africa.  Plett is a stunning modern town that combines the tranquility of nature with buzzing nightlife, lazy days on the beach and adrenaline packed adventures.  It comes to no surprise that the town was christened “The jewel of the Garden Route”.

Accommodation in Plettenberg Bay

From: R 880

From: R 1900

From: R 1500

From: R 380

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The town is characterized by it’s unspoiled golden beaches, stretching as far as the eye can sea, dense indigenous forests and crystal clear rivers and lagoons, but is probably more popular as one of the ultimate whale watching hotspots in the southern hemisphere.  Plett is the place to be for locals and foreigners alike. Adrenaline fueled activities and adventures aside, the area is meant to be explored!

At night, you can pick and choose between excellent restaurants, bars, lounges and clubs. However, during the summer months, the best parties happen at the beach. You will notice that South Africans and very outdoors orientated.

History

Plettenberg Bay is another South African town rich with history dating as far back as the Stone Age. Archaeologists found proof in the Nelson’ Bay and Maties River Caves that Middle Stone Age men inhabited these caves for over 100 000 years! The caves are still being excavated, but are open to the public.

More recently though, the bay was discovered by a Portuguese explorer Manuel da Perestrello, who named it “Bahia Formosa” or rather, Bay Beautiful. However, it wasn’t until 1778 when the Bay got its name. Named after Governor Joachim van Plettenberg, who incorporated the bay under the Dutch East India Trading Company, the bay was primarily used only as a shipping port. The first settlers were farmers and frontiersmen, and the East Indian influence can still be seen in the architecture today

Climate

The area has a mild to Mediterranean climate throughout the year, Temperature does not fluctuate much, but winter months can be chilly due to the seasonal winter rains. Winter is the best time to visit the area if you wish to enjoy a peaceful retreat, while the summer months are synonymous with beach parties and bustling activities, It is an are favoured by students on their summer break. The temperatures from January to July range between 17 to 23 degrees, while you can expect average temperatures of between 17 and 10 degrees between July and December

Ecology

Plettenberg Bay is nestled between the great Tsitsikamma forest and the fabled Outeniqua Mountains, with the Storms and Bitou River running through it all. The area is a nature lover’s own slice of heaven. Bird and marine life are in abundance. The delicate eco system further consists of wetlands and lagoons.

Between Keurboomstrand to Robberg Peninsula you will find a 15 kilometer stretch of unspoiled beach. This location offers the best shore-based whale watching spot during breeding season, and dolphins can be seen frequently in the surg. Plett is also home to a large seal colony and a large seagull breeding facility.

Beaches

The area is just perfect for lazy days on the beach. The cold Benguela stream is not the best for swimming in, but the waves are perfect for suffers. Find a comfy spot higher on the dunes, and spend the afternoon watching dolphins frolic in the break.

Unique to this part of the world in a sea shell called the Pansy. It is delicately shaped like a flower, and is also the symbol of the town. Looking for these seashells on the beach is a popular activity.

The popular beaches include;

• Robberg Beach
• Central Beach (in Plett)
• Lookout Beach
• Keurboom Strand Strand means beach in Afrikaans. Be cautious at this beach though. Rip tides are a common occurrence.

Activities in the Area

Most of the activities are outdoor orientated, to make the most of the glorious weather and beautiful surroundings. Only some of the activities available include, but is definitely not limited to;

• Diving: The Bay is abundant with over 100 known species along the coast. In the coral reefs you can spot zebra and double sash butterfly fish. Some of the best coral reefs in the world are found here. Dive sites include Grootband, Jacobs Reef and the Athena wreck, as well as open water diving for advanced scuba divers.
• Boat Cruises: Ocean safari trips will take you on a two hour unforgettable cruise, enabling you to get up close with the dolphins, whales and seals. Boat trips to the surrounding islands can also be arranged.
• Fishing: The entire area is an angler’s paradise. You can expect to catch Roman, Tuna and Hake, so you never have to boast about “the one that got away” ever again.
• Golf: The area offers three golf courses for the discerning player.
• Polo: Polo is not a popular sport in South Africa, but Plett is considered as the polo capital. Tournaments are played on Easter and December holidays, with practise sessions available throughout the year.
• Forest Wagon Trails: The Knysna forest was once home to a large amount of elephants, endearingly called “Big Feet” by people of the area. Take a ride down memory lane of a bygone era on a horse drawn carriage through the forest.
• Accolades

Plettenberg has received two awards in the annual Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice awards. It was voted as the third best Beach and Sun destination in Africa, and ranked top ten in the Outdoor and Adventure category.

From: R 880

From: R 880

Highlights For it’s kind of establishment, the lodge is very family friendly. Plettenberg Bay is a very romantic destination great for honeymoons. Hunter Country House is situated between the coastal haven of Plettenberg Bay and Knysna, on the ever so popular scenic Garden Route.

View Larger Map Address: National Road Number 2 Plettenberg Bay 6600 South Africa Visit Site

If you are looking for utmost peace and tranquility, you need not look further than Hunter Estate. With its antique finishes, candle lit dining areas and warm and welcoming conservatory, guests all agree on experiencing a sense of “coming home.”

Helpful Links:

All Garden Route Hotels – All in one spot so you can compare.

Golf Resorts on the Garden Route – Relax and enjoy a round.

Discover all of South Africa – Choose from it all.

Winding walkways will take you through fragrant secret gardens, with butterflies and birds in abundance. The Summer House is located in one of these gardens, overlooking the impressive Outeniqua Mountain. It makes a great venue for more informal meals. Formal dinners can be had in the candle lit dining room, while picnics can be arranged in one of the many breathtaking gardens.

Hunter Country House is the winner of numerous awards since its opening, including the much sought after South Africa’s Hotel of the Year award and ranking third in the top 100 hotel restaurants.

Gourmet Picnic for Two

A basket filled with loads of yummy treats and beverages can be enjoyed either on the property or taken out when exploring the area.

Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay is known for its unspoiled beaches and hidden lagoons. The bay is large enough to host great whales, which is coincidentally also what the town is famous for. The town itself makes for interesting exploring or just a lazy day at the beach.

Ocean Blue Adventures

Ocean trips to see whales, dolphins and seals can be booked at the main beach, going to Robberg Peninsula or Keurbooms

Horse Riding

Ride well trained horses through the indigenous forest

Accommodation

The Country Lodge offers 8 Garden Cottages, 5 Superior Garden Cottage, 2 Deluxe Pool Suites and one Master Suite

All cottages and suites features;

• Fireplace
• Air Conditioner
• Mini Bar
• Tea and coffee making facilities
• En Suite bathroom with a separate bath and shower
• Hair Dryer
• Private patio with tables and chairs

Garden Cottages

The thatched roofed Garden Cottages are scattered across the beautiful winding country garden. Cottages are private and cozy at 45 square meters in size.

Superior Garden Suites

At 60 square meters, the suites are roomier with extra closet space, making it ideal for longer stays. These units also feature a full sofa and extra armchair in the lounge area.

Deluxe Pool Suites

The roomy 85 square meters allows for a separate lounge and dining area, opening up to a stunning patio.

Deluxe Suites additionally features;

• Spacious bedroom adjacent to a separate dressing room
• His and hers basins
• Heated towel rails
• An outdoor shower
• Large flat screen television
• French doors leading out to patio
• Private pool
• Kitchenette

Master Suite

The Master suite is almost like your very own home at 125 square meters, with all the luxuries and creature comforts you might need.

Master Suite additionally features;

• Butler’s kitchen
• Guest restroom
• Split level dining room
• Lounge with home entertainment system
• Outside entertainment area and gazebo
• Private swimming pool
• Two fireplaces (one in bedroom)
• Four poster bed and antique chaise lounge.

Amenities

• Room Service
• Wi-Fi

Facilities

• Conservatory
• Pools
• Wine Cellar
• Indoor and outdoor dining areas.
• Cubs Corner

Children Policy

Children of all ages are welcome. The lodge fully caters to the needs of children. At the Cub’s Corner, children are looked after by trained minders. The area offers a paddle pool, jungle gym, sandpit, games room and a dining room.

Directions

The Country House can be easily accessed from George or Port Elizabeth Airport. Situated between Plettenberg Bay and Knysna on the Garden Route, car rental or chartered flights are readily available.

Getting there by road:

The N2 stretches from George and PE, running through the famous Garden Route. From both cities, you will head towards Knysna. The House is situated 22km outside Knysna on the N2 (22km before Knysna when travelling from PE)

GPS: S34 02′ 39.5″ E023 15′ 55.9″

From: R 1900

Highlights Accommodation nestled high in the treetops of an ancient forest Elevated wooden walkways sprawling through the trees grants easy access between suites and the main lodge, offering a majestical view of the forest below. The lodge is a member of Relais & Chateux, promising excellent service, luxury and value for money.

View Larger Map Address: Off N2 South Africa Visit Site

If you are looking for a truly unique experience while celebrating the spirit of Africa, Tsala lodge will not disappoint. Set high in the treetops of a dense indigenous forest, you will not be left wanting while absorbing the tranquility of your surroundings. Discreet staff provides you with impeccable and personal service.

Helpful Links:

All Garden Route Hotels – All in one spot so you can compare.

Golf Resorts on the Garden Route – Relax and enjoy a round.

Discover all of South Africa – Choose from it all.

Tsala lodge has a fantastically rich history, and the locals will not be shy to share the Ledged of Tsala with you. Eons ago, the people of the North were hungry and thirsty, the land not providing for them. Scribes wrote of a wonderful place rich in water and plant life with gentle rainfall and purple mountains. The people moved to the Promised Land, and found the entrance to paradise, just as the scribe had promised. Here they had build their village from stone and wood, planted vineyards and lived in abundance.

What happened to these people of old will never be known to us, but years later, ruins of the sacred village was discovered. The area was restored back to its former glory. This is Tsala, the place of abundance and laughter, where wine flows once again.

The traditional inspiration can be clearly seen in layout and decorations of the lodge. A handmade mud chandelier brought to life by crystals is the focal point of Zinzi restaurant. Here you can enjoy tasty food either in or outdoors. The lodge has their own wine cellar, so you can hand pick the bottle of your choice.

During the day, picnics can be arranged. Your picnic can by anything you want it to be. Staff will assist you with everything you need from start to finish. Wind down your day at the spa with their extensive list of treatments, or just enjoy a sundowner on the deck overlooking the lush forest.

Keurbooms Ferries

Hire a houseboat and travel up Keurbooms River. Enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing and bird watching

African Ramble

Scenic flights can be booked, flying over the famed Tsitsikamma forest and azure coastline

Treetop Canopy Tours

Travel high above the forest floor and treetops on a zip-line, travelling from platform to platform

Elephant Sanctuary

Get up close and personal with an elephant like never before. Take these creatures on a guided walk, trunk in hand, feed them, play with them, groom them and interact with them on a very personal level.

Accommodation

Tsala boasts 10 luxurious treetop suites and 6 brand new villas

Treetop Suite

The romantic indulgent treetop hideaways are constructed of wood, glass and stone

Each Suite features:

• Fireplace
• Living room
• One elegant double bedroom
• Spacious bathroom
• A private deck extending into the forest
• A private infinity pool

Treetop Villas

Build high above the forest floor, the 6 new contemporary villas offer the utmost in convenience and comfort.

Each villa features:

• Kitchenette
• Expansive lounge
• Private deck overlooking the forest
• Double bedroom
• Luxurious bathroom
• Outdoor shower
• Separate toilet facilities.
• A plunge pool with another private deck and sun loungers
• Air conditioning
• Television and DVD player with surround sound
• Mini bar

Amenities

• Room Service
• Wi-Fi

Facilities

• Library
• Lounge at main lodge
• Wine cellar
• Indoor and outdoor dining areas
• Spa

Children’s Policy

Children over the age of 10 are welcome

Directions

Tsala can easily be reached from either George or Port Elizabeth. The lodge is an hour’s drive from George, and approximately 2.5 hours from Port Elizabeth, necessitating car hire, private transfer or chartered flights. All options are readily available.

All major airlines fly directly to George or PE from all main cities.

Getting there by road:

The N2 stretches from George and PE, running through the famous Garden Route. From both cities, you will head towards Knysna. The lodge is situated 22km outside Knysna on the N2 (22km before Knysna when travelling from PE) Sign posts clearly indicate the location to the access road, leading you up to the security entrance.

GPS: Turn Off at the N2 S34 02′ 39.5″ E023 15′ 55.9″

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