Bosavern Guest House

The reception area opens onto a sea-facing timber lookout deck that runs along the front of the guesthouse, with views across the lush hillside to the horizon. At the centre of the deck is a large swimming pool and separate sun lounge, sheltered from the wind and surrounded by landscaped indigenous gardens. Indoors, stairs lead up to a bright and spacious guest lounge and glass-fronted balcony, with a breakfast bar that overlooks the property.

Six en-suite double rooms fronted with vast floor-to-ceiling glass panels make the most of the panoramic views and let the light into the white contemporary interiors. The downstairs suites have sheltered patios leading into the garden; those above have private balconies. Some units have baths in addition to showers, and all are furnished with an eye to both comfort and sophistication. There's a satellite TV and DVD player for evenings in, underfloor heating, a fridge and deeply comfortable beds.

Plett has some of the finest beaches along this stretch of the Garden Route, so the focus is naturally on the huge array of water-based activities – from topping up your tan on the sands and swimming in the warm Indian Ocean to scenic boat trips to Robberg seal colony (watch out for whales and dolphins on the way). Tsitsikamma National Park is close by, and the surrounding area is popular for its many hiking trails and lush nature reserves.