18 of the Best Places to Stay Along the Garden Route
Nima Lodge
Nima Lodge is perched at the very top of the Wilderness Hills, overlooking the untouched old-growth Tsitsikamma forest and nature reserve.
Amongst all of the other incredible locations on this list Nima is in a class of its own, shining as the jewel in the crown of accommodation on the Garden Route. Their exquisitely appointed, private self-catering cabins are decorated to the nines with artisanal furniture pieces, local luxury linens and one-of-a-kind artworks.
Each of these natural hideaways also comes with a balcony area overlooking unbelievable views of the Outeniqua mountains and national park.
Nima’s central position along the Garden route also makes it the perfect place from which to explore the area - from canoeing, skydiving, kloofing, wildlife reserves, hiking, horse-riding, bungee-jumping and MORE, there are a myriad of activities to enjoy around Nima.
Address: Tien Myl Laan Wilderness, George, 6560
Rates: R2550 - R4200
BOOK HERE: https://booking.staging.roomraccoon.com/nima-lodge/en/
#1 - Forest Valley Cottages
Forest Valley Cottages is a tranquil spot among the trees, with views of the deep indigenous forest, valleys and mountains surrounding Knysna. If you’re looking for a honeymoon destination, a weekend of casual luxury or a romantic hideaway, these self-catering forest cottages are for you. Enjoy a few relaxing days of bubble baths with a view, delicious hot chocolate in front of the fireplace, dinner in a private lapa where you can absorb the forest night calls, and on a warm sunny day take a swim in the communal plunge pool with world-class views.
Rates: R2275/night (2PAX)
#2 - Knysna Hollow Country Estate
Just five minutes outside of Knysna, you’ll find a stylish and contemporary country retreat with lush indigenous gardens. The gardens contain two swimming pools with relaxing lounges and designer sunbeds. Enjoy authentic local foods from the Social Eatery, an ice-cold craft beer or bespoke gin and tonic at the Social bar, or even request a bottle of premium wine from the boutique cellar for a special occasion. If you’re interested in exploring the area, Knysna Hollow Country Estate is there to assist you in organising any activities you wish to experience.
Rates: R1400 - R1700/night (2PAX)
#3 - Robberg Beach Lodge
Nestled in the heart of the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay offers splendid skies and spectacular seascapes. The unspoilt beauty of the lagoons and beaches, as well as a great selection of restaurants, bars and coffee shops, make this destination great for visitors of all ages. Robberg Beach Lodge offers beautifully decorated boutique accommodation right on the shore. When you’ve had enough of the beach, this luxury villa has two outdoor pools for you to enjoy, as well as a rooftop viewing deck of the beautiful Robberg Blue Flag Beach.
Rates: R1000 - R1750/night (2PAX)
#4 - The Bungalow
The Bungalow sits a stone’s throw from the water’s edge at one of Plettenberg Bay’s favorite playgrounds, Hobie Beach. This luxury boutique accommodation has been designed for the ultimate experience in beachside living. A sea-facing viewing deck is shaded by indigenous milkwood trees. In a shared space, you’ll find a plunge pool basking in the summer sun beneath a sprawling upper deck overlooking the entire bay. Another beautiful feature is the tranquil, private area on the cliffside of the establishment that can be used for more intimate gatherings, with a cosy fire in the boma.
Rates: R1400 - R2400/night (2PAX)
#5 - Sandpiper Cottages
Sandpiper Cottages nestles within the Fransmanshoek Conservancy offering an idyllic retreat amid the peace and serenity of Boggomsbaai. There is a variety of accommodation to suit every holiday style, from old Cape cottages to eco-homes. Boggomsbaai is a bay of colourful dawns and stunning sunsets. Soak up the sun on pristine white beaches or snorkel in the clear, warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Kayak, mountain bike, or body surf at your leisure. Between July and October whales cavort off the shoreline, and dolphins play in the surf almost all year round.
Rates: R550 - R750/night (2PAX)
#6 - Fairy Knowe Backpackers
Fairy Knowe Backpackers, built under beautiful trees in Wilderness, neighbours some of the best hiking and bird-watching trails in the Garden Route. It’s a perfect base for exploring the lush, unspoilt landscapes of the Wilderness National Park. If adventuring is on your to-do list, then then this spot is the ideal springboard to explore the area and enjoy all of the activities on offer in Wilderness, including kayaking, paragliding, hiking, horseriding, canyoning and much more. Once a week there is live music at the onsite bar, giving guests the perfect opportunity to catch up with locals and other travelers.
Rates: R400 - R800/night (2PAX)
#7 - Chandelier Game Lodge
Chandelier Game Lodge is located between the lush green Garden Route and the wide-open spaces of the Klein (Little) Karoo, with the Outeniqua and Swartberg mountain ranges as grand backdrops. If you’re interested in an en suite luxury tent chalet that offers a sensational bush experience, or a homely log cabin with a private deck, Chandelier Game Lodge is the place for you. Don’t miss the chance for close-up encounters with giraffe, buffalo and ostrich, and join our Khoi-San trail.
Rates: R1300 - R2400/night (2PAX)
#8 - Afrovibe Beach Lodge
You’ll find the Afrovibe Beach Lodge in the seaside village of Sedgefield, the perfect base from which to explore the region’s myriad attractions. If you’re looking for a private, quiet, individual room or a big family room for all the kids, Afrovibe offers a variety of accommodation options. If you’re spending the weekend in this small friendly town and looking for a yummy breakfast made from locally produced foods then the Wild Oats Community Farmers' Market is the perfect Saturday morning destination.
Rates: R880/night (2PAX)
#9 - Hlangana Lodge
Hlangana Lodge is the finest small luxury hotel in Oudtshoorn. This beautiful Victorian guest house is set in a large, exotic garden, offering a relaxing atmosphere for guests who enjoy a high standard of luxury and service. Hlangana Lodge is ideally situated as a haven from which to explore Oudtshoorn, the Cango Caves, and the surrounding countryside. The lodge is known for its signature full buffet, a la carte dining, and champagne breakfast.
Rates: R1000 - R1200/night (2PAX)
#10 - Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
At the foot of the towering Warmwaterberg Mountains in the Little Karoo lies the safari destination of Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. Experience a huge diversity of indigenous flora and fauna and rare examples of San rock art, some dating back more than 3,500 years, plus a boat safari and thrilling game drives. Stay in the Dwyka tented lodge, Gondwana family lodge, Tilney manor or the explorer camp on the reserve.
Rates: R10 100 - 20 784/night (2PAX)
#11 - Wild Spirit Backpackers
Wild Spirit caters to conscious explorers and open-minded travellers who are seeking something slightly different and off the regular tourist track. Located deep in the unspoiled heart of South Africa's famous Garden Route, surrounded by the indigenous forests, pristine beaches and mountains of the Tsitsikamma National Park, you’ll find this unique and magical place. Take a forest walk to the magnificent waterfall, an adventure down to the lagoon, or sit back, relax and enjoy the mountain views.
Rates: R380 - R800/night (2PAX)
#12 - Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
With the magnificent Outeniqua mountains as a backdrop and sweeping views over the Indian Ocean below, Botlierskop Private Game Reserve offers a range of luxury accommodation in Little Brak River. Accommodation ranges from sumptuous tented lodges and stately manor suites to spectacular, self-catering villas and an entire village built with children in mind. Enjoy game drives, horseback safaris, spa therapies, children’s activities or a day at the swimming pools.
Rates: R3700 - R4000/night (2PAX)
#13 - The Fernery Lodge & Chalets
At the base of the Tsitsikamma mountains in Storms River, alongside ancient rivers connected to the Indian Ocean, lies the beautiful Forest Ferns Estate. Occupying a magnificent position that borders the Tsitsikamma National Park, it has enchanting views of the rugged coastline, river gorge and surrounding plantations. Whether you're an energetic morning jogger, bird watcher, mountain biker, or simply want to lounge around the pool, there is something for everyone at the Fernery.
Rates: R2300 - R2700/night (2PAX)
#14 - Ocean Watch Guest House
Ocean Watch Guest House is perfectly positioned against the coastal hillside of the beautiful Plettenberg Bay, an ideal spot to enjoy whale and dolphin watching. Ocean Watch Guest House is a central spot to get involved in some of the area’s amazing activities … from kayaking, hiking, boat trips, river rafting and bungee jumping to visiting monkeys, birds, and elephants. The house’s elegant and open-air feel provides a relaxing environment after your day of adventures.
Rates: R1400 - R1600/night (2PAX)
#15 - Boutique Vintage Forest Cabin
Boutique Vintage Forest Cabin in Storms River is perched above a pristine mountain stream and in a highly diverse indigenous botanical forest wetland. Enjoy some quiet time in the privacy of your cabin with a large deck and extensive views of both of the mountain peaks. Take a wander through your private area, including a secluded forest path with numerous fruit trees and a garden planted with organic fruit and vegetables for the use of guests.
Rates: R2000/night (2PAX)
#16 - Emily Moon River Lodge
Set on the banks of the Bitou River in Plettenberg Bay, Emily Moon River Lodge is an exclusive boutique hotel with a quirky attitude and a distinctly African air. The hotel comprises sixteen lodge suites set in an indigenous garden, with views of the river, wetlands and mountains. Enjoy a lovely dinner in the dining hall, or lunch and cocktails by the pool.
Rates: R3200 - R3400/night (2PAX)
#17 - Garden Route Game Lodge
Set against the backdrop of the Langeberg mountains in Albertinia, this breathtaking private game reserve has a selection of rooms, chalets and private villas to complete your African safari adventure. Experience sunset and sunrise game-viewing drives in open Land Rovers, encountering some of Africa’s incredible wildlife. In the evening, relax in Serengeti’s Restaurant and enjoy the country-inspired cuisine.
Rates: R3100 - R3700/night (2PAX)
#18 - Teniqua Treetops
You’ll find Teniqua Treetops off the beaten track and partly off the grid, twenty minutes outside Sedgefield in the undisturbed forest of the Garden Route. On a warm day, walk down to the Karatara river and rock pools to enjoy an afternoon of sunshine and swimming, or wander along the area’s exquisite forest trails. Back at the resort, browse through the art gallery or visit the animals in the petting zoo.
Rates: R1600 - R1800/night (2PAX)
