South Africa’s Garden Route: The 5 Best Luxury Lodges
The Garden Route in South Africa is a scenic drive stretching 124 miles through the Western Cape, from Mossel Bay to Storms River. This route is perfect for road-trippers, filled with pit stops and detours that highlight the region’s culture, natural beauty, and hospitality.
You can explore the Garden Route over a few days or take a couple of weeks to truly immerse yourself in the area. Starting in Mossel Bay, which is just under 250 miles from Cape Town via the N2 highway, you’ll find easy driving conditions with minimal traffic. Mossel Bay offers attractions like the St Blaize Trail, a nine-mile coastal walk leading to Dana Bay from a cave below Cape St Blaize Lighthouse.
Further along the coast, about 30 minutes from Mossel Bay, is George. This historic town features the Garden Route Botanical Garden, which introduces visitors to the fynbos vegetation of the Cape Floral Region, known for its remarkable biodiversity. As you continue driving past George, the Outeniqua Mountains provide a stunning backdrop as you head towards Wilderness and then Knysna.
Knysna is famous for its 10-day Oyster Festival held annually in late June. The town overlooks a lagoon where sailing boats dot the water, and the ocean lies just beyond two headlands that offer the perfect sunset views.
An hour farther east brings you to Plettenberg Bay, a beloved spot known for its beautiful beaches, sandy coves, and cliffs teeming with dolphins and whales year-round. The Garden Route culminates at Storms River village, 50 minutes east of Plettenberg Bay. Inland, the Tsitsikamma Forest offers adventure activities like kayaking and the world’s highest bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge. Meanwhile, the Tsitsikamma National Park provides wonderful hiking trails, including the five-day Otter Trail.
Along this route, several luxury lodges offer fantastic accommodations:
The Manor House at Fancourt – George
Located on the Fancourt Estate in George, this luxury boutique hotel combines historic charm with modern elegance. Built in 1859 by Henry Fancourt White, it features Cape Dutch-style architecture with whitewashed walls, gabled roofs, and lovely verandas offering views of the gardens and Outeniqua mountains. The Manor House is especially appealing to golf enthusiasts with its three superb courses, including The Links, designed by Gary Player. Guests can also enjoy the estate’s wellness spa, gourmet dining options, and recreational activities like tennis and hiking.
Simbavati Fynbos on Sea – Sedgefield
Situated between George and Knysna in Sedgefield, this luxurious lodge occupies a hilltop location, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and surrounding fynbos landscape. The lodge features elegant rooms designed with natural materials and large windows or private terraces for enjoying the scenery. Guests can partake in guided nature walks, bird watching, and explore unique flora and fauna. Additional activities include kayaking on nearby lagoons, visiting fossil dunes, and in summer, snorkelling in rock pools. The dining experience focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients in both communal and private settings.
Kanonkop House – Knysna
This boutique luxury property is perched above Knysna, providing stunning views of the Knysna Lagoon. Guests are personally welcomed by a concierge who guides them to individually decorated rooms blending contemporary and traditional African styles. Amenities include air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and luxurious en-suite bathrooms. Common areas feature an extensive bar where all drinks are included, a charming terrace for breakfast, and a beautiful outdoor pool. The concierge can arrange activities such as lagoon cruises, hiking, and visits to local wildlife reserves.
Tsala Treetop Lodge – Plettenberg Bay
Nestled in the heart of the Garden Route, this luxurious lodge offers a serene escape with elegant suites and villas elevated above the forest floor. Each accommodation features a private deck, plunge pool, and spacious living areas. Guests can enjoy stunning views of the forest canopy, hearty meals in the main dining area, and a range of facilities including an infinity pool and a library. Adventure activities like forest walks and bird watching are available, and the lodge is committed to eco-friendly practices.
Walkers Beach Hotel – Plettenberg Bay
One of Plettenberg’s newest boutique hotels, Walkers Beach Hotel, offers incredible views of the Indian Ocean and direct beach access. The airy whitewashed rooms and spacious balconies provide a feel of a Mediterranean villa. Guests can relax in two outdoor swimming pools or enjoy fine dining at the hotel’s restaurant and bar. The hotel also assists with booking water sports, whale watching, and other local excursions, ensuring a comprehensive experience of Plettenberg Bay.
These luxury lodges enhance the Garden Route experience with their unique offerings and impeccable service, making any stay along this scenic stretch memorable.