Take advantage of some of the best weekend getaways along Garden Route. An area known for its remarkable natural beauty, it provides the ideal weekend escape from all things metropolitan.
Whether with your spouse or family, this region offers a serene retreat. Experience the stunning landscapes, from lush greenery to pristine beaches.
Alongside the captivating scenery, you’ll find a range of top-notch accommodations, ensuring a comfortable and rejuvenating stay. Indulge in the tranquillity of the Garden Route and create cherished memories during your perfect weekend getaway. Before we get started, also discover 12 fast living room decor ideas.
1. The Alexander Boutique Suites
Experience royal luxury at The Alexander Boutique Suites. Choose the Royal Suite for stunning ocean views and a lavish bathtub.
Or opt for the Penthouse Suite, offering panoramic views, fine artwork, and a private plunge pool. The Pearl Room’s silky fabrics create contentment and comfort, while the Oyster Room’s private sundeck captures the soothing sounds of the sea.
The warm decor of the Amber Suite comes complete with a walk-in bathroom and private deck. The Capitan Suite’s charm boasts porthole windows and spectacular views. Enjoy facilities like underfloor heating, Lavazza Coffee machines, and a mini-bar.
Indulge in on-site spa treatments, from facials to massages, and explore local adventures like Birds of Eden and Congo Caves.
Google rating: 4.8
Location: Pilot’s View, 30 Glen View Rd, The Heads, Knysna
Contact: 044 384 1111
2. Cottage Pie Villa
This 4-star gem, nestled near Robberg 5 Beach, promises a charming coastal retreat. The villa’s Cottage Garden Rooms offer cosy beach decor and French doors leading to various outdoor spaces.
Drift off to nature’s majestic soundtrack. Enjoy the many beautiful amenities with The Robberg Beach Lodge, including a stocked bar and panoramic patio.
Dive headfirst into local activities, including hiking Robberg trails, wildlife at Monkeyworld and Birds of Eden, or cruising for dolphins. For a mellow day, savour Plett Wine Route tastings. Unwind, roam, and enjoy Cottage Pie Villa.
Google rating: 3.8
Location: 89 Beachy Head Dr, Plettenberg Bay
Contact: 044 533 0369
3. Tamodi Lodge
Escape to the tranquil Tamodi Lodge in Plettenberg Bay, where luxury meets nature’s beauty.
Family-owned, this lodge offers 7 suites for the ultimate holiday getaway.
The main lodge building boasts cosy standard rooms with a private deck and stone bath.
The Master Suite exudes that holiday feel, featuring fireplaces, indoor/outdoor showers, and Wi-Fi.
The separate honeymoon suites promise privacy, with charming fireplaces and stunning views. Enjoy breakfast daily and explore nearby restaurants.
Activities range from mountain biking to bird watching, showcasing some of Africa’s rarest bird species. Indulge in the peaceful setting, a blend of luxury and nature, and a relaxed stay.
Google rating: 4.8
Location: Pinehaven rd, The Crags, Plettenberg Bay
Contact: 082 470 2892
4. Villa Castollini
Villa Castollini offers a range of 8 accommodation suites, each uniquely designed.
The Deluxe Suite, situated on the pool deck level, features a king-sized bed, lounging area, and en-suite bathroom with bathtub and shower. The suite opens to a spacious verandah with outdoor dining and lounging options. The Superior Suite boasts an extra king-sized bed, dressing room, and en-suite with bathtub and shower.
Both suites provide amenities like Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and more. The Standard, Junior Deluxe, and Family Unit rooms on the pool deck or first-floor offer comfort and beauty.
Amenities include bathrobes, mini bar fridges, and individually controlled air conditioning. The Family Unit Room, ideal for families, features two en-suite king-sized bedrooms, open-plan living, and a balcony with panoramic views.
Google rating: 4.7
Location: Brenton-on-Sea Road, Brenton on Sea, Knysna
Contact: 044 381 8200
5. Dolphin Dunes Guest House
Discover Dolphin Guest House, nestled along the serene Garden Route. Unwind in luxurious rooms facing the beautifully manicured garden.
Enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast alongside hot and continental options. Bask in the coastal charm on the sea-facing sundeck, where playful dolphins dance in the waves.
Take in all of Wilderness’s natural wonders. Stroll along unspoiled beaches, venture into the enchanting forest, or paddle across the tranquil lagoon.
Explore the Garden Route’s treasures – Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Oudtshoorn, and more.
Delight in fishing, horse-riding, cycling, and golf at nearby world-class courses. Dolphin Guest House offers a gateway to relaxation and adventure.
Google rating: 4.7
Location: 1970/71 Buxton Cl, Wilderness
Contact: 044 877 0204
6. The Milkwood Collection
Located on South Africa’s stunning Garden Route, Knysna is a popular holiday spot. The Milkwood Collection in Knysna offers diverse self-catering accommodations with waterfront villas like Milkwood Bay and Number Eleven, featuring private pools.
More affordable options include the villa Paquita and Under Milkwood’s cosy timber chalets. These holiday accommodations are situated along the Knysna Lagoon and grant guests direct beach access.
Ideal for a family getaway, you’ll enjoy splendid views, safe swimming, and water sports opportunities.
Choose between kayaking or beach strolls during low tide. Enjoy the moderate climate and tranquil lagoon. Nearby, explore golf, cycling, hiking, bird watching, and annual events like the Knysna Oyster Festival.
These chalets offer fully-equipped kitchens, sundecks, and accessible braai areas.
Google rating: 4.7
Location: 13 George Rex Dr, The Heads, Knysna
Contact: 044 384 0745
7. The Lofts (Knysna)
Indulge in the tranquillity of The Lofts with three distinct room options.
Lagoon View Rooms offer a serene escape for couples, boasting stunning lagoon views, spacious living areas, and luxurious amenities.
Balcony Rooms cater to single people, couples, and corporate travellers, featuring playful decor, king-size beds, and sunny balconies with partial lagoon views.
Apartments provide a unique experience for extended stays with split-level layouts, accommodating four guests.
Revel in the charm of Thesen Harbour Town from your private balcony, or relish the cosy loft bedroom. All accommodations include satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and fully-equipped bathrooms.
Whether seeking romantic seclusion or a comfortable working environment, The Lofts ensures a memorable stay immersed in natural beauty.
Google rating: 4.7
Location: Long St, Thesen Island, Knysna
Contact: 044 302 5710
8. Knysna Houseboat Myrtle
Unique perfectly encapsulates the Knysna Houseboat Myrtle, a self-contained water cottage.
Anchored in Knysna Lagoon, it’s just 2 km from Knysna Waterfront. It’s an original Knysna houseboat with charming wood finishes boasting two decks for relaxing lagoon days.
Enjoy stunning views of the lagoon, quays, and Knysna Heads. Sunrises and sunsets from the deck offer a picturesque horizon.
The houseboat accommodates 4 people on 2 double beds, with a private main bedroom deck. It features a kitchen nook, stove, fridge, hot shower, and toilet.
Nearby Waterfront restaurants are easily accessible. For cosy evenings, gather around the indoor fireplace. Experience accommodation that blends tranquillity and easy access to Knysna’s vibrant waterfront.
Google rating: 4.6
Location: 2 Waterfront Dr, Knysna Central, Knysna
Contact: 076 861 4742
9. Mooiplaas Country Guesthouse
Escape to the tranquil Mooiplaas Country Guesthouse for an other-worldly retreat. It is secluded amidst the stunning Swartberg mountains and offers luxurious rooms and family suites.
The house boasts a cosy lounge with a fireplace, a fully-equipped kitchen, and private bathrooms with luxury toiletries. Kitchenette facilities include a fridge, microwave, and utensils.
The primary guest house provides privacy, a delicious breakfast, and braai facilities. Family suites accommodate 4 people with splendid gardens and mountain views.
Enjoy amenities like air conditioning, satellite TV, and Wi-Fi. Superior suites feature separate lounges, patios, and exquisite bathrooms. Indulge in spa treatments and explore Oudtshoorn’s rich history and attractions.
Google rating: 4.6
Location: Volmoed, Oudtshoorn
Contact: 044 279 4019
10. Emily Moon River Lodge
Emily Moon River Lodge is where luxury and nature blend to form a beautiful partnership.
Choose from six superior luxury suites, eight luxury suites, and two family suites. Unearth rare African artefacts and enjoy private living spaces, spacious bathrooms, and wooden viewing decks. Take full advantage of fireplaces, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, minibars, and satellite TVs.
Dine exquisitely at Emily’s Restaurant, steeped in African ambience. Enjoy lunch by the pool or relish candlelit dinners with unforgettable views.
Savour homegrown and local ingredients in dishes like Karoo Lamb Rack and Butter Chicken Samosas. Sip cocktails or local wines while admiring riverside vistas and sunsets by the fire.
Simon’s Bar, above the restaurant, is furnished with boat engines and a wood-fired pizza oven.
Explore Plettenberg Bay’s wine scene, enjoy Robberg Nature Reserve walks, and watch whales. Emily Moon offers a haven where luxury meets natural wonder.
Google rating: 4.6
Location: 1 Rietvlei Rd, Plettenberg Bay
Contact: 044 501 2500
Also read:
