in the heart of Plettenberg Bay
Individually decorated rooms in fresh tones and villas with one of the most exclusive addresses in the area.
Location
Set on a dramatic headland above Plettenberg Bay, The Plettenberg offers some of the most impressive vistas along the famous Garden Route - the sparkling ocean, majestic mountains, and miles of pristine golden sand.
Rooms
With only 35 rooms and suites, a Beach House and a Lookout Villa, The Plettenberg feels wonderfully intimate and relaxed. Each space is designed with coastal elegance in mind — think light, airy interiors that mirror the sea just outside your window.
For those after a little more privacy and space, The Plettenberg’s Beach House and Lookout Villa are ideal. The Beach House sits just metres from the sea and features two spacious en-suite bedrooms, a private pool, and uninterrupted ocean views — perfect for families or couples travelling together. The Lookout Villa offers even more room to relax, with three en-suite bedrooms, open-plan living spaces, and its own pool deck overlooking the bay.
Amenities
There’s a lovely balance here between laid-back luxury and thoughtful comfort. The infinity pool is a real highlight — it almost seems to spill into the ocean beyond. If you want to unwind, the Fresh Wellness Spa offers a range of soothing treatments that will leave you feeling refreshed. Fitness fans can enjoy the well-equipped gym, and when it comes to dining, Amelia’s restaurant delivers seasonal dishes with a focus on local ingredients, paired with an excellent wine selection.
Activities
Plettenberg Bay is packed with ways to explore and relax. We love the guided walks through Robberg Nature Reserve’s fynbos trails — a perfect way to connect with the unique landscape. You can also hop on a boat for marine wildlife spotting, visit nearby vineyards for tastings, or enjoy kayaking and birdwatching. Whether you’re after adventure or a peaceful day by the sea, there’s something here for you.
Sustainability
The Plettenberg is deeply committed to protecting its beautiful surroundings. From sourcing food locally to supporting conservation projects, your stay helps safeguard this remarkable corner of the world.
Let me help you create your perfect bespoke holiday
Best places to stay in Garden Route
Garden Route Trip Inspiration
When to go to South Africa
Find out the best time to visit South Africa with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is the perfect time to visit the Cape — hot, dry and buzzing. Lounge on beaches or explore the Winelands and Garden Route in peak summer sun. Inland, it’s the wet season in Kruger, with bursts of heavy rain and vivid green landscapes. It's also the end of the birthing season, attracting predators and creating dramatic wildlife scenes.
February
The hottest month in Cape Town, February is ideal for alfresco lunches in the Winelands or scenic drives along the Garden Route. There are fewer tourists, perfect weather and excellent vineyard experiences. Safari regions remain hot, humid and wet, so it’s better to stick to the coast and cultural highlights at this time of year.
March
March brings settled, sunny days to Cape Town, the Winelands and Garden Route — ideal for laid-back trips and less crowded experiences. In Kruger, the lush landscape and newborn wildlife create brilliant photographic opportunities, with clear skies and dramatic colours. Rainfall eases across the country, making it a great time to combine regions.
April
April’s mild weather and lower visitor numbers make it one of the best months to explore. Cape Town is perfect for hiking Table Mountain or visiting Kirstenbosch Gardens. The Garden Route and Drakensberg are quiet and cool. In Kruger, rutting season begins — male antelope at their most impressive, sparking fierce, fascinating fights.
May
With summer crowds gone and crisp, dry days setting in, May is a peaceful time to travel. Safari viewing improves as vegetation thins in Kruger, and game becomes easier to spot. The Cape has a mix of sunny and rainy days, and the Winelands feel calm and welcoming after the peak season rush.
June
The start of winter brings cool, dry safari conditions — ideal for spotting wildlife clustered around shrinking water sources. Cape Town gets wetter, though days can still be bright. Whale watching begins along the Western Cape, while the Drakensberg is a dream for hikers enjoying fresh air and peaceful trails. Comrades Marathon adds sporting buzz to KwaZulu Natal.
July
July is peak whale watching around Hermanus and Plettenberg Bay, with whales close to shore to calve. It’s also the best time for safaris — cool, dry and clear. Kruger’s wildlife gathers at waterholes, and sightings are exceptional. Cape Town remains cool and drizzly, but it’s a quiet, rewarding time for active or cultural trips.
August
Spring starts to show as wildflowers carpet the West Coast and Namaqualand in vibrant colour — a true spectacle. Game viewing is still strong in Kruger, and whales continue to visit the Cape’s coastline. Temperatures begin rising after winter’s chill, and clear skies return, making this a great time to combine coast, culture and safari.
September
September is superb for combining experiences — wildlife viewing is excellent in Kruger and Madikwe, while whales are frequently seen along the southern coast. Spring flowers are still blooming, and warmer temperatures make outdoor exploration more inviting. In the Drakensberg, snow-capped peaks linger as trails begin to warm up for hiking.
October
October is one of the best all-round months to visit. Cape Town and the Winelands are warming up, with long sunny days and few crowds. Safari conditions remain strong in Kruger and KwaZulu Natal, and the beaches are heating up. Whether you want wildlife, wine or coastline, it’s hard to go wrong this month.
November
Cape Town soaks up the early summer sun, with calm days ideal for exploring. It’s the last chance to see southern right whales before they head off. Inland, the rains return to Kruger and KwaZulu Natal, but afternoon storms are spectacular and short-lived. Visitor numbers increase as the festive season nears — book early.
December
December buzzes with summer energy. The first two weeks are a sweet spot — great weather and fewer crowds. Later in the month, it’s peak holiday season across the country. In Kruger, landscapes burst into colour with flame lilies and baby animals. Book early for Christmas trips — this is one of the most popular times to visit.
Speak to a South Africa expert today
and start planning your tailor-made vacation
Alistair
Tamara
Plan with an expert
Have a look at our original experiences and then contact us with your travel ideas, or call (888) 445-2912
A tailor-made itinerary just for you
Our experts will send you a detailed itinerary specified to your desires. It's our service promise to you.
Value guarantee
Tailor-made doesn't mean expensive! Ask about our price promise and book with financial security.