Heading to Plettenberg Bay on holiday? Here is a roundup of the top places to stay, play, eat and shop.
WORDS Phendu Kuta PHOTOS Ryan French (Eleven), Elsa Young (Walkers Beach), Supplied
The scenic town of Plettenberg Bay, popularly known as Plett, is a prime tourist attraction in December. Situated on the Garden Route, it has the ideal mix of vibey trendiness and quiet luxury, and offers seasoned travellers a varied range of experiences, from stunning landscapes that include beaches, forests and the renowned Robberg peninsula, to the hospitality of its world-class hotels, restaurants and vineyards. The emerging art scene also attracts visitors to a medley of galleries and design spaces.
The eponymous Plettenberg, part of the Liz McGrath Collection, is situated on a headland overlooking the Wedge and Lookout Beach. The iconic venue unveiled its new-look restaurant, Amelia’s at The Plettenberg, in July. With interiors by Cape Town-based studio HotCocoa, both the hotel and its Mediterranean-inspired restaurant embody “barefoot luxury”, with service that’s focused on creating curated experiences for guests. Amelia’s new menu offers an exploration of flavours, from fresh seafood and perfectly grilled meats to dainty sweet and savoury bites during “Afternoon Tea by the Sea”. | theplettenberghotel.com
A historic gem, The Old Rectory is a perfect blend of heritage and luxury, and has been part of the region since 1777. Situated steps away from Central Beach, it features a full-service spa, a bistro-inspired restaurant and custom furnishings sourced locally. Despite its central location, guests can relax on its serene lawns, peacefully retreating from the craziness of high season. | theoldrectory.co.za
A more recent addition to the town’s attractions is Walkers Beach, a minimalist destination with direct access to the beach. The space, designed by architect Wessel van Dyk and developed by owner Howard Walker, spans three levels of contemporary luxury, primarily styled in light oak and neutral colours by Petrus Maree Design. It also showcases an impressive art collection, including works by Angela Banks
and William Kentridge. | walkersbeach.com
Eleven, a plush boutique hotel and concept space located on bustling Main Street, embodies a community ethos in the way it merges luxury with street culture. It currently serves light meals and coffee, flowing into the street with outdoor seating and furnishings along the sidewalk. The spot also offers e-bike rentals and guided bike tours. Looking ahead to the busy season, the owners plan to open a wine bar, with a street-food vibe and no formal seating, encouraging guest interaction and reinforcing the communal philosophy. | elevenplett.co.za
Telluric, a wine estate with a family-friendly restaurant, Zoox, is the latest addition to the Plett wine region. Founded by the owners of Beau Constantia and opened in November 2023, this developing wine farm’s southeastern slopes overlook the coastline, while Zoox offers sweeping views of the fields of Rhone Hill Polo Club. The name is derived from the Latin words tellus and tellur, meaning “of the earth”, and reflects the brand’s regenerative approach and philosophy of energy in harmony with nature. | telluric_wine | zooxplett
Plett’s wine route, stretching between Harkerville and The Crags, also includes wine farms such as Luka Vineyards, with a restaurant and farm shop; relative newcomers Bitou Vineyards on the banks of the Bitou River; Newstead, where you can taste, shop and picnic; and Kay & Monty Vineyards, where you can stay in a private homestead. | lukavineyards.co.za | bitouvineyards.co.za | newsteadwines.com | kayandmonty.com
For a distinctly African flair in both hospitality and dining, the ever-popular Emily Moon and Nguni are go-to destinations, offering unique experiences that embody the spirit of the region. | emilymoon.co.za | nguni-restaurant.co.za
In addition to its culinary attractions, Plett boasts a flourishing art scene. Noteworthy galleries include the family-owned Dallas Smith Gallery, showcasing the work of many Garden Route artists; Gallop Hill Gallery, featuring artists from across the Western Cape; and Selah Fine Art Gallery, which opened in August in Keurboomstrand. | dallassmith.org
For coffee fans, the town is home to some quality cafés. Le Fournil de Plett, located in the quirky courtyard of the Lookout Centre in Main Street, is a French café/bakery with fine art on the walls, while The Seakrit Spot claims to make the best brew in Plett. | lefournildeplett.co.za
For market lovers, Market Off Main in the heart of town and Old Nick Village – a shopping hub along the N2 – offer an eclectic collection of shops and stalls. Market Off Main has a more traditional food court feel, while Old Nick Village is a creative shopping destination for goods by various artisans, designers and curators. A highlight of Old Nick Village is the Mungo Mill, where the renowned textile brand produces its woven goods.
With a blend of relaxed luxury, natural beauty, a growing art scene and diverse culinary offerings, Plettenberg Bay continues to be a sought-after destination that promises unforgettable experiences.
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