Best hotels in Garden Route

Knysna Hollow Country Estate is set on a secluded 3-hectare country retreat just 5 minutes from the centre of Knysna, a quaint seaside town widely regarded as the jewel of the Garden Route. Knysna Hollow re-opened in October 2018 as a brand-new contemporary country estate offering stylish accommodation with warm personal service and authentic dining in our casual restaurant, Social Eatery. A standout amongst Knysna hotels, the 44 contemporary Garden Suites are situated in lush gardens and offer all modern amenities in a spacious and serene environment. The modern Cape Country Manor House is the focal point of the estate and houses a restaurant, bar, reception, sun deck and internet library - overlooking the gardens with two sparkling swimming pools.

Perched on the tip of Leisure Isle - a connected peninsula that feels decidedly more island than mainland - this boutique hideaway gazes directly at those famous Heads standing sentry over Knysna Lagoon. It's the sort of spot where you can paddle a kayak to breakfast, then cycle home for sundowners, all whilst feeling rather smug about your location choice. The property occupies prime waterfront real estate where the Indian Ocean mingles with the lagoon, creating a rather dreamy backdrop for doing absolutely nothing at all. With just 15 rooms, it manages that clever trick of feeling intimate without being claustrophobic, and the multi-award-winning status (Africa's top luxury guesthouse, no less) suggests they're doing something right beyond just the postcard views.

Walkers Beach offers an unrivalled experience in the heart of Plettenberg Bay, South Africa. With its luxurious accommodations, stunning uninterrupted beach and sea views, and close proximity to world-renowned attractions, it is the perfect destination for those seeking a unique and unforgettable getaway.

Walkers Beach offers unparalleled vistas of the beach and the sparkling sea. Guests can indulge in the beauty of the natural surroundings from the comfort of the suites and common areas. Step into one of the meticulously designed and furnished suites to be whisked away to an oasis of luxury and comfort. Choose the signature suite for the ultimate retreat, where attention to detail is second to none.

Plett Quarter’s central location allows guests easy access to all the main attractions that this charming town has to offer. Stroll out of our front door to the many cafes, restaurants and shops that surround the hotel. If you feel like walking off your breakfast and enjoying a beach stroll, Plett’s popular swimming beach, Central Beach, is only a one kilometre walk away - but be warned, it is down a very steep hill!

Nestled inside is a gorgeous restaurant open to the public that embraces street facing café culture, with brilliant coffee and smoothies, fresh breakfasts, seasonal lunches, popular dinners and an extensive beverage list. However, the hotels’ most popular destination remains exclusive for guests. The expansive rooftop deck and pool bar on the top floor enjoys panoramic views of the Indian Ocean stretching out over Formosa (‘beautiful’) Bay, where whales are often spotted and watersports abound.

Family friendly, the hotel & apartments welcomes children of all ages.

For decades the owners of Babylonstoren and The Newt in Somerset have been holidaying at Keurboomstrand on the Western Cape coastline. One of the most charming little beaches in the world, famed for its rugged coastline and unspoilt beaches. Over recent years, we’ve restored or upgraded a few beach cottages on a sea-facing strip of land.

BLOU has only eight self-catering cottages. They are dotted around a central courtyard with a swimming pool, sauna and steam room. It’s the epitome of barefoot luxury on the edge of the Indian Ocean.

Tucked into the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains, Buffelsdrift is a convenient safari pitstop on the Garden Route that delivers proper bushveld atmosphere without the malaria tablets. The lodge hugs a five-hectare waterhole where hippos grunt and terrapins paddle, while giraffe, zebra and buffalo graze the opposite banks. It's more accessible glamping than remote wilderness – just ten minutes from Oudtshoorn and the famous Cango Caves – but that proximity to civilisation is part of its charm. Dawn meerkat safaris, night drives in search of the elusive 'shy five', and encounters with rescued elephants add genuine wildlife credentials, whilst the restaurant dishes up hearty Karoo fare alongside award-winning Route 62 wines. A solid choice for families or anyone wanting to dip their toes into safari life.