Bayside Lodge, a 5 bedroomed four star Bed & Breakfast, is perfectly positioned in a quiet residential area of Plettenberg Bay just 300m/3 minute walk to Robberg 5 blue flag beach.
With its proximity to the unspoilt Robberg Nature Reserve, sporting facilities (including world class golf courses), shopping centres and restaurants, Bayside Lodge is the perfect base from which to explore the Garden Route and its myriad activities and attractions. Bayside Lodge is situated in a tranquil residential area with several excellent restaurants only a 6-30 minute walk away, and if required we can call a reliable taxi service for guests.
During 2015 Bayside Lodge was expanded to include two self catering apartments – 32 Bell Rock (two bedroom/one bathroom, 58m2, ground floor, north facing) and 2 River Club (2 bedroom/2 bathroom, 85m2, ground floor, north facing). These apartments are both near Bayside Lodge and a short walk from the beaches.
Bayside Villas guests check in at Bayside Lodge and receive the same warm welcome, maps, vouchers and information. We provide Bayside Villas self catering guests with some breakfast basics in their kitchen – tea, coffee, milk, sugar, cereals, bread, butter, jam and fruit.
Both complexes have swimming pools. River Club also has tennis and squash courts. Bell Rock and River Club do have wifi available at extra cost. Wifi hotspots are available within walking distance at Bayside Lodge.
Bayside Villas (River Club and Bell Rock) have barbecues, flat screen tvs, DSTV, music centres and washing machines. Their kitchens are fully equipped and we provide safes, heaters, fans and guest amenities. Families are welcome and River Club has a sleeper couch in the sitting room for a 5th adult or two small children. Access control at Bell Rock is via an electric gate and at River Club there is 24 hour manned security at the entrance.
Two bedroom/two bathroom self catering north facing ground floor apartment located a few minute’s walk from Central Beach and the Beacon Isle. There is a fully fitted kitchen including an automatic washing machine, a sitting room, a patio with a barbecue and a small garden. There is one car port with extra parking for visitors within a fenced complex with 24 hour manned access control. There are also tennis/squash courts and a large swimming pool. Shops and restaurants are a few minute’s walk from the complex and there is a lovely wooden walkway along the Piesang river in front of Riverclub. Wifi available at extra cost. Wifi hotspots are also available within walking distance at Bayside Lodge.
The bed configuration is four single beds or a king and two single beds. The en suite bathroom has a shower and the second bathroom has a shower over the bath. There is a 40′ flat screen television with full DSTV bouquet as well as a music centre, electronic safe, heaters, electric blankets, fans and beach towels.
Two bedroom/one bathroom self catering north facing ground floor apartment located 400m from Bayside Lodge. There is a fully fitted kitchen including an automatic washing machine, a sitting room, a patio with a barbecue and a small garden. There is one covered car port and extra parking for visitors within a walled complex with an electric gate and swimming pool. It is a 4 minute walk to Robberg beach or 4 minute’s walk to Bayside Lodge. There is a restaurant two minute’s walk from Bell Rock which offers all meals. Wifi available at extra cost. Wifi hotspots are also available within walking distance.
The bed configuration is four single beds or a king and two single beds. The bathroom has a large walk in shower. There is a 32″ flat screen television with full DSTV bouquet as well as a DVD player, music centre, electronic safe, heaters, electric blankets, fans and beach towels.
Bayside Lodge’s honeymoon suite with Jacuzzi spa bath and shower in the large en suite bathroom makes this a sought-after choice. Honeymooners receive some extra special treatment! Mini-safe, fridge, television, tea/coffee making facilities, snack basket, heater, fan, beach towels, percale linen, bath robes and guest amenities are provided.
King-size bed (convertible to twin beds)
En-suite bathroom with Jacuzzi spa bath and shower
Complimentary wifi
This lovely villa is situated on Beachy Head drive. This is a very popular location as Beachy Head drive runs parallel to Robberg Beach. The path down to the beach is close by next to the residential properties across the road.
The entrance is off the road with an entrance door that then leads up to the villa. On the entrance level which is upstairs is the open plan lounge and dining room that leads onto an outdoor patio with dining and sitting area. There are lovely sea views from this level. The kitchen is open plan to the dining area. There is a bedroom/ study on this level. There are four bedrooms downstairs. The swimming pool is at the back of the house protected from the wind. This is a spacious house with a great location.
Sleeps 10. Children Welcome
DOWNSTAIRS
Bedroom 1 – King Bed, full en-suite bathroom, satellite TV, patio, sea view
Bedroom 2 – King bed, full en-suite bathroom, back facing, pool & patio access
Bedroom 3 – 2 x Single beds, patio access, bathroom sharing with bedroom 4
Bedroom 4 – 2 x Single beds, patio access, bathroom sharing with bedroom 3
Laundry – Washing machine, tumble dryer, clothes horse, washing line
Parking – Secure lockup garage plus 3 parking bays in driveway
Outside Area -Pool with fenced garden area
Large Playroom/TV Room – table tennis table, 1 x large sofa, 2 x arm chairs, coffee table, large screen satellite TV
UPSTAIRS
Bedroom 5/Study – Double bed with balcony
Bathroom with shower
Lounge – 3 x Sofa seats and leads onto patio
Barbecue with beach & sea views with additional outdoor sofas for 11 people
Dining Room – 10-Seater table with chairs also leads onto balcony
Kitchen – Oven, microwave, coffee machine, fridge / Freezer x 2, dishwasher
OTHER
Security
Smhart alarms
Facilities and equipment
TV – DSTV in 3 locations including the master bedroom – linked between Master and Play room
WiFi
Washing machine – tumble dryer – clothes horse/line
Dishwasher – coffee machine – microwave -oven
All linen including bath towels
Umbrella & beach towels
Underfloor heating
Barbecue
This is Bayside Lodge’s largest suite – luxurious and sunny with its own private sitting room. Overlooking our tranquil gardens, the bay window adds to the spaciousness of this room. The en-suite bathroom has a roomy shower with tiled seating so you can enjoy your splash time in comfort and there is a dressing room with plenty of cupboard space. Mini-safe, fridge, television, tea/coffee making facilities, snack basket, heater, fan, beach towels, percale linen, bath robes and guest amenities are provided.
King-size bed (convertible to twin beds)
En-suite bathroom with shower and dressing room
Private sitting room with sleeper couch
Complimentary wifi
Bayside Lodge’s Sunkissed popular for families or friends travelling together, this two bedroom suite has bay windows and views of our front garden. The shared en-suite bathroom has a bath, shower and twin basins. Mini-safe, fridge, television, tea/coffee making facilities, snack basket, heater, fan, beach towels, percale linen, bath robes and guest amenities are provided.
Main bedroom: King-size bed (convertible to twin beds)
Second bedroom: Twin beds
En-suite bathroom with bath, shower and twin basins
Complimentary wifi
Activities near Bayside Lodge
Plettenberg Bay is a wild-life enthusiasts’ paradise. The wealth of natural beauty coupled with nature reserves, abundant wild-life and eco-tourism ventures all combine to make this stretch of the Garden Route the most sought after holiday destination.
Abseiling
Air Adventure
Angling
Arts and Crafts
Beaches
Birding
Bloukrans Face Adrenaline
Bowls and Tennis
Canoeing and Kayaking
Cultural Tours
Cycling
Eco-adventure Tours
Family Fun
Golf Courses and Driving Ranges
Health, Beauty and Spas
Hiking and Walking
Historical Sites
Horse Riding
Indigenous Vegetation
Polo
Scenic Routes and Drives
Scuba Diving and Snorkelling
Tours and Transfers
Whale Watching/Deep Sea Safari
Animal Experiences
Knysna Elephant Park
This was founded in 1994, the first of its kind in South Africa offers visitors an opportunity to “Be Touched By and Elephant Today”. The elephants range freely in the 60 hectare park on which there is plenty to eat, some big trees to rub up against and two large dams for bathing and drinking. Meet the herd – Sally; Harry; Thambile; Nandi; Thandi (she’s the first calf born at the Park); Shaka; Bulelo; Malaika; Jabari and Keisha – the baby
The Crags Elephant Sanctuary
Meet the six African Elephants: Maroela, Jabu, Thandi, Mopani, Thaba and Tumelo in a beautiful indigenous forest setting and choose your elephant experience from the varied programme.
Lawnwood Snake Sanctuary
Experience a 1 hour guided tour consisting of an indigenous snake pit, a boomslang exhibit, a monitor lizard enclosure, a large dome housing South African and exotic snakes, followed by a huge python room housing giant constrictors. Open Tuesday to Sundays
Monkeyland
The world’s first multi-species free-roaming primate sanctuary is renowned throughout the world for its rehabilitation work. On the 1 hour safari expect to see many species of monkeys, apes and lemurs living in the forested sanctuary.
Birds of Eden
The largest single free-flight aviary in the world, and incorporates an indigenous forest with waterfalls and elevated walkways. Previously caged birds from every corner of the globe live here in free flight.
Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre
Plett’s latest addition to a “must see” whilst visiting the Garden Route. An activity with a difference – the objective being to allow visitors to experience tame indigenous wildlife in a semi-natural environment whilst learning about their struggle for survival in the wild. Tenikwa offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience South Africa’s lesser indigenous cats, branded “The Furry Five” – Black Footed Cats, African Wild Cats, Caracal, Serval and two very cute young Cheetah cubs, Chester and Zimbali, that will steal your heart.
Game Safaris
Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve
A 2 hour game drive or horse safari experience with over 30+ different species of game, 800+ animals and 1300 hectares of indigenous beauty just 15 minutes from the town.
Buffalo Hills Game Reserve
An African Safaris on the Garden Route. Choose from half or full day visitors’ programmes.
Outdoor Experiences
Boat-based Whale and Dolphin Watching
There are three operators launching boats from Central Beach: The Explorer, Ocean Blue and Ocean Safari. Take an exhilarating trip out onto the ocean to catch close-up sightings of dolphins, Cape Fur Seals, Minke Whales, Orca (Killer Whales) and Bryde’s Whales which may be sighted throughout the year. The migratory whales, Southern Right and Humpback visit the shallow, protected bays of the region to calve and mate from June to November; October being the height of the whale watching season
Keurbooms River Ferries
Experience the majesty of the Keurbooms River Estuary as the Ferries glide over shimmering waters, through soaring gorges of the unspoilt Keurbooms Nature Reserve on a 2½ hour trip.
Storms River Adventures
Treetop Canopy Tours
“An experience you’ll never forget!” The platforms, built high up in the Outeniqua Yellowwoods, provide an unbelievable view of this enchanting new world. The tour consists of 10 platforms and 10 “fufi” slides. Tours are conducted in all weather conditions.
Woodcutters Journey
“A unique forest experience”. Journey down the old Storms River pass, and experience the indigenous forest from the comfort of a specially designed vehicle. Follow the elephant trail down to the water, passing tree ferns, stinkwoods, yellow woods and many other tree species, whilst hearing about the history of the area and the local flora and fauna.
Tsitsikamma Falls Adventure
Waterfall Zipline Tours
Take a “foefie slide” tour on 8 cable rides over the Kruis River and down a ravine over three waterfalls. Each section has its own surprises, adventure, wonders and beautiful views.
Quad Bike Tours
Enjoy an hour and more of fast paced fund, adventure and nature.
Family Fun
Adventure Land
N2 between Plettenberg Bay and Knysna. Water Slides, Quad bikes and play park – Fun for all ages
Wild Waters Fun Park
The complete venue for the whole family including waterslide, 18 hole Mini Golf, Trampolines, Kiddies Playground, Play Pool, Sand Pit and Mini Slide
Keurbooms River Adventures
Self-drive motor boats for hire – ideal for that romantic cruise, lazy picnic, fishing and bird watching
Golfing
Golf courses designed by some of the golfing greats are scattered from Tsisikamma to Mossel Bay making this region a golfer’s delight. Many of the top-quality courses boast spectacular sea, mountain and river views.
Goose Valley Golf Course
Only 2 kms from Plettenberg Bay, is situated in pristine surroundings bordering on the Keurbooms Lagoon. Golfers playing this magnificent Gary Player designed 72 par, 18 hole golf course will experience breathtaking views of the lagoon, the ocean and the Tsitsikamma Mountains.
Plettenberg Bay Golf Club
This is no little seaside golf course. It is a magnificent 18 hole layout in the most lovely of settings on a proclaimed Nature Reserve. All greens and bunkers are to USGA specifications – a golf course to be remembered!
Pezula Championship Course
This golf course in Knysna offers breathtaking views over the forest, the Knysna Lagoon and the Indian Ocean with holes such as the 14th built right on the breach of the cliffs.
Knysna Golf Club
Adjacent to the Knysna estuary has tree-lined fairways and the surrounding hills provide scenic backdrops with a great variety of trees, flowers and bird life.
Simola Golf Estate
Designed by Jack Nicklaus, has glorious views from every corner of the course – the Outeniqua Nountains, the Knysna Lagoon and the Indian Ocean. Golf at Simola is the sublime experience.?
Hiking and day walking trails
The entire region is a birders and hikers paradise – indigenous rain forest, coastal wetlands and forest trails, Fynbos mountain vegetation, river estuaries, coasting hiking, waterfalls and rock pools. There are experienced tour guides offering a variety of experiences.
The Robberg Peninsula
By far the most popular with hikers, is a nature reserve and national monument that lies to the south of Plettenberg bay. The ecology of the Robberg Peninsula is similar to that of other rocky headlands and promontories on this coastline. It presents a fine example of how plants and animals adapt to the interacting influences of land and sea. The Reserve offers a choice of three circular routes of increasing difficulty with distance: a short and comparatively easy 2.2 kms; a more difficult 5.6 kms and more challenging 9.2 kms.
The Garden of Eden Forest Walk
Alongside the N2 between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay is a very short, pleasant walk of 1 km offering a good introduction to the forests.
Kranshoek Coastal Trail
offers a choice of two circular routes, 3ms or 9 kms. Fairly rough terrain is covered, offering magnificent views of the coastline, passing through forest, pine plantation and Fynbos, along a beautiful rocky beach and climbs an escarpment overlooking the sea. The beauty of this walk likes in its variety and the magnificence of the scenery.
Nature’s Valley
A small village situated at the mouth of the Groot River at the bottom of the Groot River pass alongside the Groot River estuary forming part of the Tsitsikamma De Vasselot nature reserve offering a network of trails traversing a wide diversity of geographical features – sea, lagoons, estuaries, rivers, Fynbos, forests, valleys and mountains.
Tsitsikamma
“Place of abundant or sparkling water”, where cold and warm currents meet and mingle to create an immensely rich variety of underwater species. This enchanting area is covered in large tracts of indigenous forest, commercial plantation, Fynbos and is rich in animal and bird life. Deep river gorges cleft the plateau as they make their way down to the sea, creating spectacular waterfalls and deep kloofs. The Tskitsikamma National Park encompasses a marine reserve made up of 80km of rugged coastline and offers the visitor magnificent scenery, walks and hiking trails.
Scenic Routes and Drives
Kranshoek
12kms from Plettenberg Bay on the N2 towards Knysna, follow the signboards at the Harkerville turnoff. The road leads to Kranshoek picnic site which overlooks the sea and krans. One may picnic or take a stroll along the cliff overlooking the sea, or along the roads through the Harkerville forest.
Keurbooms
About 10km on the N2 towards Port Elizabeth take the turnoff to Keurboomsrivierstrand. Turn off again at the sign and drive parallel with the ocean. There are parking areas from where often dolphins and, in season, whales may be seen frolicking in the waves. Continue to the parking area of Enrico’s Restaurant and then, at low tide, take a walk along the beach towards the Maitjes river one can see Arch Rock and the Maitjes River Cave.
Grootrivier Pass to Nature’s Valley
Take the R102 turnoff to Nature’s Valley. This road winds down through indigenous forest to the little seaside village and De Vasselot Nature Reserve. Take a stroll along the magnificent beach.
Bloukrans Pass
Continue along the the R102, Grootriver Pass, Cross the N2 and continue down the Bloukrans Pass. This route is unique in South Africa with indigenous forests on either side of the road. Stop at the Rugbos Picnic site, refresh and take in the silence and majesty all around you. On your return via the N2 visit the Bloukrans River bridge view site on your right before the toll gate.
Tsitsikamma and Storms River
Stop at the Big Tree or the Storms River bridge. Storms River Village
A small country village (1km off the N2) has retained its rural roots with massive old trees, a few attractive shops including a showroom displaying a fascinating vintage Cadillac collection in immaculate condition, an Adventure Centre, Post Office, a character Cape Victorian style hotel and restaurants.
Prince Albert Pass
At the Bitou River bridge take the R340 Wittedrift / Uniondale road. This historic pass is a gravel road that winds up the Outeniqua mountains with stunning views. African Ramble
Offers scenic, whale watching and charter flights from Plett Airport.
“Excellent 5* B&B in Plettenberg Bay. Highly recommended with beautiful rooms and generous breakfasts. Helpful secure car parking and lovely garden with pool. Also very helpful and attentive hosts Adrienne and Bernie ( and Daisy the dog!)” –Ghforbes
“Adrienne and Bernie are very nice and friendly hosts, we had a warm welcome and a cozy atmosphere during our stay. Quiet location, all facilities available, we would definitely come back whenever in Plett again” –Ralf W
“Adrienne and Bernie are fantastic hosts and gave us good advice about what to do in the area. The beds were the most comfortable of our whole month long trip and the salt swimming pool is welcome – I don’t like chlorine pools. We were offered a room inside with a jacuzzi but we opted for the room outside and loved it, we were very happy there in the pretty little garden. We ate dinner at the Fat Fish, good. Breakfast was delicious served by Martha, such a good atmosphere here. Adrienne and Bernie have it spot on in our opinion, well done and thank you so much.” –SueRider
During 2015 Bayside Lodge was expanded to include two self catering apartments – 32 Bell Rock (two bedroom/one bathroom, 58m2, ground floor, north facing) and 2 River Club (2 bedroom/2 bathroom, 85m2, ground floor, north facing). These apartments are both near Bayside Lodge and a short walk from the beaches.
Bayside Villas guests check in at Bayside Lodge and receive the same warm welcome, maps, vouchers and information. We provide Bayside Villas self catering guests with some breakfast basics in their kitchen – tea, coffee, milk, sugar, cereals, bread, butter, jam and fruit.
Both complexes have swimming pools. River Club also has tennis and squash courts. Bell Rock and River Club do have wifi available at extra cost. Wifi hotspots are available within walking distance at Bayside Lodge.
Bayside Villas (River Club and Bell Rock) have barbecues, flat screen tvs, DSTV, music centres and washing machines. Their kitchens are fully equipped and we provide safes, heaters, fans and guest amenities. Families are welcome and River Club has a sleeper couch in the sitting room for a 5th adult or two small children. Access control at Bell Rock is via an electric gate and at River Club there is 24 hour manned security at the entrance.
Two bedroom/two bathroom self catering north facing ground floor apartment located a few minute’s walk from Central Beach and the Beacon Isle. There is a fully fitted kitchen including an automatic washing machine, a sitting room, a patio with a barbecue and a small garden. There is one car port with extra parking for visitors within a fenced complex with 24 hour manned access control. There are also tennis/squash courts and a large swimming pool. Shops and restaurants are a few minute’s walk from the complex and there is a lovely wooden walkway along the Piesang river in front of Riverclub. Wifi available at extra cost. Wifi hotspots are also available within walking distance at Bayside Lodge.
The bed configuration is four single beds or a king and two single beds. The en suite bathroom has a shower and the second bathroom has a shower over the bath. There is a 40′ flat screen television with full DSTV bouquet as well as a music centre, electronic safe, heaters, electric blankets, fans and beach towels.
Two bedroom/one bathroom self catering north facing ground floor apartment located 400m from Bayside Lodge. There is a fully fitted kitchen including an automatic washing machine, a sitting room, a patio with a barbecue and a small garden. There is one covered car port and extra parking for visitors within a walled complex with an electric gate and swimming pool. It is a 4 minute walk to Robberg beach or 4 minute’s walk to Bayside Lodge. There is a restaurant two minute’s walk from Bell Rock which offers all meals. Wifi available at extra cost. Wifi hotspots are also available within walking distance.
The bed configuration is four single beds or a king and two single beds. The bathroom has a large walk in shower. There is a 32″ flat screen television with full DSTV bouquet as well as a DVD player, music centre, electronic safe, heaters, electric blankets, fans and beach towels.
Bayside Lodge’s honeymoon suite with Jacuzzi spa bath and shower in the large en suite bathroom makes this a sought-after choice. Honeymooners receive some extra special treatment! Mini-safe, fridge, television, tea/coffee making facilities, snack basket, heater, fan, beach towels, percale linen, bath robes and guest amenities are provided.
King-size bed (convertible to twin beds)
En-suite bathroom with Jacuzzi spa bath and shower
Complimentary wifi
This lovely villa is situated on Beachy Head drive. This is a very popular location as Beachy Head drive runs parallel to Robberg Beach. The path down to the beach is close by next to the residential properties across the road.
The entrance is off the road with an entrance door that then leads up to the villa. On the entrance level which is upstairs is the open plan lounge and dining room that leads onto an outdoor patio with dining and sitting area. There are lovely sea views from this level. The kitchen is open plan to the dining area. There is a bedroom/ study on this level. There are four bedrooms downstairs. The swimming pool is at the back of the house protected from the wind. This is a spacious house with a great location.
Sleeps 10. Children Welcome
DOWNSTAIRS
Bedroom 1 – King Bed, full en-suite bathroom, satellite TV, patio, sea view
Bedroom 2 – King bed, full en-suite bathroom, back facing, pool & patio access
Bedroom 3 – 2 x Single beds, patio access, bathroom sharing with bedroom 4
Bedroom 4 – 2 x Single beds, patio access, bathroom sharing with bedroom 3
Laundry – Washing machine, tumble dryer, clothes horse, washing line
Parking – Secure lockup garage plus 3 parking bays in driveway
Outside Area -Pool with fenced garden area
Large Playroom/TV Room – table tennis table, 1 x large sofa, 2 x arm chairs, coffee table, large screen satellite TV
UPSTAIRS
Bedroom 5/Study – Double bed with balcony
Bathroom with shower
Lounge – 3 x Sofa seats and leads onto patio
Barbecue with beach & sea views with additional outdoor sofas for 11 people
Dining Room – 10-Seater table with chairs also leads onto balcony
Kitchen – Oven, microwave, coffee machine, fridge / Freezer x 2, dishwasher
OTHER
Security
Smhart alarms
Facilities and equipment
TV – DSTV in 3 locations including the master bedroom – linked between Master and Play room
WiFi
Washing machine – tumble dryer – clothes horse/line
Dishwasher – coffee machine – microwave -oven
All linen including bath towels
Umbrella & beach towels
Underfloor heating
Barbecue
This is Bayside Lodge’s largest suite – luxurious and sunny with its own private sitting room. Overlooking our tranquil gardens, the bay window adds to the spaciousness of this room. The en-suite bathroom has a roomy shower with tiled seating so you can enjoy your splash time in comfort and there is a dressing room with plenty of cupboard space. Mini-safe, fridge, television, tea/coffee making facilities, snack basket, heater, fan, beach towels, percale linen, bath robes and guest amenities are provided.
King-size bed (convertible to twin beds)
En-suite bathroom with shower and dressing room
Private sitting room with sleeper couch
Complimentary wifi
Bayside Lodge’s Sunkissed popular for families or friends travelling together, this two bedroom suite has bay windows and views of our front garden. The shared en-suite bathroom has a bath, shower and twin basins. Mini-safe, fridge, television, tea/coffee making facilities, snack basket, heater, fan, beach towels, percale linen, bath robes and guest amenities are provided.
Main bedroom: King-size bed (convertible to twin beds)
Second bedroom: Twin beds
En-suite bathroom with bath, shower and twin basins
Complimentary wifi
Plettenberg Bay is a wild-life enthusiasts’ paradise. The wealth of natural beauty coupled with nature reserves, abundant wild-life and eco-tourism ventures all combine to make this stretch of the Garden Route the most sought after holiday destination.
Abseiling
Air Adventure
Angling
Arts and Crafts
Beaches
Birding
Bloukrans Face Adrenaline
Bowls and Tennis
Canoeing and Kayaking
Cultural Tours
Cycling
Eco-adventure Tours
Family Fun
Golf Courses and Driving Ranges
Health, Beauty and Spas
Hiking and Walking
Historical Sites
Horse Riding
Indigenous Vegetation
Polo
Scenic Routes and Drives
Scuba Diving and Snorkelling
Tours and Transfers
Whale Watching/Deep Sea Safari
Animal Experiences
Knysna Elephant Park
This was founded in 1994, the first of its kind in South Africa offers visitors an opportunity to “Be Touched By and Elephant Today”. The elephants range freely in the 60 hectare park on which there is plenty to eat, some big trees to rub up against and two large dams for bathing and drinking. Meet the herd – Sally; Harry; Thambile; Nandi; Thandi (she’s the first calf born at the Park); Shaka; Bulelo; Malaika; Jabari and Keisha – the baby
The Crags Elephant Sanctuary
Meet the six African Elephants: Maroela, Jabu, Thandi, Mopani, Thaba and Tumelo in a beautiful indigenous forest setting and choose your elephant experience from the varied programme.
Lawnwood Snake Sanctuary
Experience a 1 hour guided tour consisting of an indigenous snake pit, a boomslang exhibit, a monitor lizard enclosure, a large dome housing South African and exotic snakes, followed by a huge python room housing giant constrictors. Open Tuesday to Sundays
Monkeyland
The world’s first multi-species free-roaming primate sanctuary is renowned throughout the world for its rehabilitation work. On the 1 hour safari expect to see many species of monkeys, apes and lemurs living in the forested sanctuary.
Birds of Eden
The largest single free-flight aviary in the world, and incorporates an indigenous forest with waterfalls and elevated walkways. Previously caged birds from every corner of the globe live here in free flight.
Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre
Plett’s latest addition to a “must see” whilst visiting the Garden Route. An activity with a difference – the objective being to allow visitors to experience tame indigenous wildlife in a semi-natural environment whilst learning about their struggle for survival in the wild. Tenikwa offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience South Africa’s lesser indigenous cats, branded “The Furry Five” – Black Footed Cats, African Wild Cats, Caracal, Serval and two very cute young Cheetah cubs, Chester and Zimbali, that will steal your heart.
Game Safaris
Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve
A 2 hour game drive or horse safari experience with over 30+ different species of game, 800+ animals and 1300 hectares of indigenous beauty just 15 minutes from the town.
Buffalo Hills Game Reserve
An African Safaris on the Garden Route. Choose from half or full day visitors’ programmes.
Outdoor Experiences
Boat-based Whale and Dolphin Watching
There are three operators launching boats from Central Beach: The Explorer, Ocean Blue and Ocean Safari. Take an exhilarating trip out onto the ocean to catch close-up sightings of dolphins, Cape Fur Seals, Minke Whales, Orca (Killer Whales) and Bryde’s Whales which may be sighted throughout the year. The migratory whales, Southern Right and Humpback visit the shallow, protected bays of the region to calve and mate from June to November; October being the height of the whale watching season
Keurbooms River Ferries
Experience the majesty of the Keurbooms River Estuary as the Ferries glide over shimmering waters, through soaring gorges of the unspoilt Keurbooms Nature Reserve on a 2½ hour trip.
Storms River Adventures
Treetop Canopy Tours
“An experience you’ll never forget!” The platforms, built high up in the Outeniqua Yellowwoods, provide an unbelievable view of this enchanting new world. The tour consists of 10 platforms and 10 “fufi” slides. Tours are conducted in all weather conditions.
Woodcutters Journey
“A unique forest experience”. Journey down the old Storms River pass, and experience the indigenous forest from the comfort of a specially designed vehicle. Follow the elephant trail down to the water, passing tree ferns, stinkwoods, yellow woods and many other tree species, whilst hearing about the history of the area and the local flora and fauna.
Tsitsikamma Falls Adventure
Waterfall Zipline Tours
Take a “foefie slide” tour on 8 cable rides over the Kruis River and down a ravine over three waterfalls. Each section has its own surprises, adventure, wonders and beautiful views.
Quad Bike Tours
Enjoy an hour and more of fast paced fund, adventure and nature.
Family Fun
Adventure Land
N2 between Plettenberg Bay and Knysna. Water Slides, Quad bikes and play park – Fun for all ages
Wild Waters Fun Park
The complete venue for the whole family including waterslide, 18 hole Mini Golf, Trampolines, Kiddies Playground, Play Pool, Sand Pit and Mini Slide
Keurbooms River Adventures
Self-drive motor boats for hire – ideal for that romantic cruise, lazy picnic, fishing and bird watching
Golfing
Golf courses designed by some of the golfing greats are scattered from Tsisikamma to Mossel Bay making this region a golfer’s delight. Many of the top-quality courses boast spectacular sea, mountain and river views.
Goose Valley Golf Course
Only 2 kms from Plettenberg Bay, is situated in pristine surroundings bordering on the Keurbooms Lagoon. Golfers playing this magnificent Gary Player designed 72 par, 18 hole golf course will experience breathtaking views of the lagoon, the ocean and the Tsitsikamma Mountains.
Plettenberg Bay Golf Club
This is no little seaside golf course. It is a magnificent 18 hole layout in the most lovely of settings on a proclaimed Nature Reserve. All greens and bunkers are to USGA specifications – a golf course to be remembered!
Pezula Championship Course
This golf course in Knysna offers breathtaking views over the forest, the Knysna Lagoon and the Indian Ocean with holes such as the 14th built right on the breach of the cliffs.
Knysna Golf Club
Adjacent to the Knysna estuary has tree-lined fairways and the surrounding hills provide scenic backdrops with a great variety of trees, flowers and bird life.
Simola Golf Estate
Designed by Jack Nicklaus, has glorious views from every corner of the course – the Outeniqua Nountains, the Knysna Lagoon and the Indian Ocean. Golf at Simola is the sublime experience.?
Hiking and day walking trails
The entire region is a birders and hikers paradise – indigenous rain forest, coastal wetlands and forest trails, Fynbos mountain vegetation, river estuaries, coasting hiking, waterfalls and rock pools. There are experienced tour guides offering a variety of experiences.
The Robberg Peninsula
By far the most popular with hikers, is a nature reserve and national monument that lies to the south of Plettenberg bay. The ecology of the Robberg Peninsula is similar to that of other rocky headlands and promontories on this coastline. It presents a fine example of how plants and animals adapt to the interacting influences of land and sea. The Reserve offers a choice of three circular routes of increasing difficulty with distance: a short and comparatively easy 2.2 kms; a more difficult 5.6 kms and more challenging 9.2 kms.
The Garden of Eden Forest Walk
Alongside the N2 between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay is a very short, pleasant walk of 1 km offering a good introduction to the forests.
Kranshoek Coastal Trail
offers a choice of two circular routes, 3ms or 9 kms. Fairly rough terrain is covered, offering magnificent views of the coastline, passing through forest, pine plantation and Fynbos, along a beautiful rocky beach and climbs an escarpment overlooking the sea. The beauty of this walk likes in its variety and the magnificence of the scenery.
Nature’s Valley
A small village situated at the mouth of the Groot River at the bottom of the Groot River pass alongside the Groot River estuary forming part of the Tsitsikamma De Vasselot nature reserve offering a network of trails traversing a wide diversity of geographical features – sea, lagoons, estuaries, rivers, Fynbos, forests, valleys and mountains.
Tsitsikamma
“Place of abundant or sparkling water”, where cold and warm currents meet and mingle to create an immensely rich variety of underwater species. This enchanting area is covered in large tracts of indigenous forest, commercial plantation, Fynbos and is rich in animal and bird life. Deep river gorges cleft the plateau as they make their way down to the sea, creating spectacular waterfalls and deep kloofs. The Tskitsikamma National Park encompasses a marine reserve made up of 80km of rugged coastline and offers the visitor magnificent scenery, walks and hiking trails.
Scenic Routes and Drives
Kranshoek
12kms from Plettenberg Bay on the N2 towards Knysna, follow the signboards at the Harkerville turnoff. The road leads to Kranshoek picnic site which overlooks the sea and krans. One may picnic or take a stroll along the cliff overlooking the sea, or along the roads through the Harkerville forest.
Keurbooms
About 10km on the N2 towards Port Elizabeth take the turnoff to Keurboomsrivierstrand. Turn off again at the sign and drive parallel with the ocean. There are parking areas from where often dolphins and, in season, whales may be seen frolicking in the waves. Continue to the parking area of Enrico’s Restaurant and then, at low tide, take a walk along the beach towards the Maitjes river one can see Arch Rock and the Maitjes River Cave.
Grootrivier Pass to Nature’s Valley
Take the R102 turnoff to Nature’s Valley. This road winds down through indigenous forest to the little seaside village and De Vasselot Nature Reserve. Take a stroll along the magnificent beach.
Bloukrans Pass
Continue along the the R102, Grootriver Pass, Cross the N2 and continue down the Bloukrans Pass. This route is unique in South Africa with indigenous forests on either side of the road. Stop at the Rugbos Picnic site, refresh and take in the silence and majesty all around you. On your return via the N2 visit the Bloukrans River bridge view site on your right before the toll gate.
Tsitsikamma and Storms River
Stop at the Big Tree or the Storms River bridge. Storms River Village
A small country village (1km off the N2) has retained its rural roots with massive old trees, a few attractive shops including a showroom displaying a fascinating vintage Cadillac collection in immaculate condition, an Adventure Centre, Post Office, a character Cape Victorian style hotel and restaurants.
Prince Albert Pass
At the Bitou River bridge take the R340 Wittedrift / Uniondale road. This historic pass is a gravel road that winds up the Outeniqua mountains with stunning views. African Ramble
Offers scenic, whale watching and charter flights from Plett Airport.
“Excellent 5* B&B in Plettenberg Bay. Highly recommended with beautiful rooms and generous breakfasts. Helpful secure car parking and lovely garden with pool. Also very helpful and attentive hosts Adrienne and Bernie ( and Daisy the dog!)” –Ghforbes
“Adrienne and Bernie are very nice and friendly hosts, we had a warm welcome and a cozy atmosphere during our stay. Quiet location, all facilities available, we would definitely come back whenever in Plett again” –Ralf W
“Adrienne and Bernie are fantastic hosts and gave us good advice about what to do in the area. The beds were the most comfortable of our whole month long trip and the salt swimming pool is welcome – I don’t like chlorine pools. We were offered a room inside with a jacuzzi but we opted for the room outside and loved it, we were very happy there in the pretty little garden. We ate dinner at the Fat Fish, good. Breakfast was delicious served by Martha, such a good atmosphere here. Adrienne and Bernie have it spot on in our opinion, well done and thank you so much.” –SueRider
