Plettenberg Bay
Oudtshoorn
March 4, 2020
With miles of pristine beaches to choose from in Plettenberg Bay, it’s no wonder that lazing on the beach is so popular with visitors, but, for those that manage to pry themselves away, there are charter boat cruises, hiking, canoeing and abseiling to choose from, to name but a few.
Set along the spectacularly scenic Garden Route in South Africa, the coastal town of Plettenberg Bay is a popular holiday destination. The Portuguese explorers called it the 'Beautiful Bay', and it’s easy to see why – Plettenberg Bay is a picturesque, charming town with endless pristine beaches, tranquil lagoons, clean rivers, indigenous forests and a dramatic rocky peninsula.
Playground to the wealthy, beach mansions overlook the Indian Ocean, often dotted with luxury yachts, while leisure time is given over to polo and golf, among other things. However, all kinds of visitors will feel at peace here as simply swimming in the warm water on a safe beach is a great way to experience the beauty of Plettenberg Bay.
There is so much to do in Plettenberg Bay you most certainly need a few days here to even scratch the surface. Considered South Africa’s favourite outdoor playground, the opportunities to get adventurous here truly are endless. An adventurous soul can really get their fill here – horse riding, kayaking, golf, hiking, canopy tours – you name it. Once you’ve exhausted yourself being active, the Plett beaches are world-class, giving you the chance to be as lazy as you want while soaking up some glorious African sunshine, an ice cold something in hand. For those keen to try the local grapes, the wine tasting here is fantastic and coupled with a visit to a local tavern, you certainly won’t feel like you’re missing out on the local flavours. Or, for those who are keen for a bit of retail therapy, there are tonnes of gorgeous little boutique shops where you can spend your hard-earned cash! And remember, as part of a Tailormade Africa itinerary we help you to design the trip just as you want it – so let us know what you’re into and we’ll make it happen.
Plettenberg Bay is located on the south coast of South Africa and is one of the key spots along the gorgeous world-famous Garden Route. As part of a Tailormade Africa itinerary, we’ll help you to get here but it really is quite easy! A straight drive from Cape Town is approximately 6 hours, but as Plett is on the Garden Route it’s likely you’ll have the journey broken up when travelling east from the Mother City. Port Elizabeth is just 2.5 hours away by road, and George is even closer at around 1.5 hours when driving in a straight line. Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and George all have regular flights into their respective airports from around the country so it’s really very easy to include Plettenberg as part of a wider itinerary – but again, let us take care of the logistics for you!
The great thing about Plettenberg Bay is that there are loads of superb accommodation options in and around the area. We have a few we love because of their uniqueness, and their various locations. The Plettenberg is quite literally in the heart of the Bay with unbelievable sea views and an incredible sense of place, and is the perfect spot to feel like you’re completely ‘in it’. For those who want to be slightly removed, but close enough to get to the beaches, we love Emily Moon River Lodge (right on a beautiful river front surrounded by wetlands), Hog Hollow Country Lodge (stunning mountain views with a real country feel), and Laird’s Lodge Country Estate (a stunning Cape Dutch-style homestead). We can run through the options with you in detail to make sure the place is just right for you and your loved ones as each spot really is quite different!
As another seaside town, you’re in for a treat when it comes to the ocean foodie delights. Nguni Restaurant and The Fat Fish are two of our favourites, although the list really is endless and with our partners on the ground we are always kept in the know on the best spots to go. Some restaurants can get booked up quite quickly so if you have a particular preference it’s best to book up – although most of our clients like the opportunity to simply stroll around and see what takes their fancy! The great news is that the food is as fresh as it comes – and if you have a particular dietary need you won’t get left behind. In fact, being vegetarian or vegan is pretty easy with all the incredible fresh veg the region has to offer!
As with much of the coastal regions along the Garden Route, Plett is renowned for being a year-round sunshine hotspot. The winters are fairly mild while the summers can be quite hot, but pleasant with the cooling sea breeze. The occasional rainy day will hit the coast during the rainy season (June through to August) however quickly turning back to bright sunshine. We do recommend bringing layers no matter the time of year just in case, as early mornings and late evenings can get chilly. That said, in the summer (November through to Feb) you can expect to sit outside until your hearts content!
Goodness no, Plettenberg Bay is amazing for all types of holidays and we really do mean it. Of course the beaches are a huge highlight, and well worth making the most of, but the surrounding areas are simply stunning for getting your outdoor fix in. Not only have you got the ocean to play with ‘til your heart’s content, but you can jump on a bike and go for a hike along one of the beautiful trails in the area including Robberg Nature Reserve which is just outside Plett and actually a national monument as well as a World Heritage Site. You can also enjoy a round of golf, or take a horse ride, visit a local market, or if you’re up for a bit of wildlife there are a number of sanctuaries in the area which are super for families. Three nights really is a minimum here to get in everything, but yes you could also just enjoy it for the beaches if you wanted to!
Plettenberg BayAccommodation
Set on the banks of the Bitou River in Plettenberg Bay, Emily Moon River Lodge is an exclusive boutique hotel with a quirky attitude and a distinctly African air. Emily Moon River Lodge is owned by Mark and Christine Valentine. The hotel is filled with the treasures they have collected from their travels all over Africa, Asia and Polynesia... Learn more
“If you can spend a perfectly useless afternoon in a perfectly useless manner, you have learned how to live.” Lin Yutang (1895 –1976). Hog Hollow Country Lodge is set in the heart of the Crags, Plettenberg Bay. Built on a private nature reserve on the edge of an indigenous forest, it has the most spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and mountains... Learn more
Laze your way through languid afternoons on one of several verandahs or in any of the sheltered courtyards where homemade iced tea is served with our compliments; the secluded swimming pool too is particularly inviting while beautifully landscaped gardens offer opportunity for a leisurely stroll... Learn more
The Plettenberg – situated on a rocky headland in one of South Africa's most spectacular beach towns – is the ultimate escape. The Plettenberg is situated in the heart of Plettenberg Bay, along the adventure–rich Garden Route which is world–renowned for its excellent selection of outdoor activities... Learn more
