Itinerary Overview
One of the top scenic self drive routes in South Africa, the Garden Route offers a little of everything for which our sun-soaked country is famous; spectacular scenery, authentic wildlife experiences and top cuisine. Stretching along the southern coast of South Africa, the Garden Route is a holiday paradise that spans from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth. Discover ancient forests, secluded beaches, hidden wine estates and unique wildlife sanctuaries. Conveniently located at the end of the Garden Route it is possible to end your memorable holiday with a world-class safari. A variety of private and public game reserves and national parks can be found between 1 and 2 hours from Port Elizabeth Airport offering accommodation options at all price points.
In the heart of Constantia is a hotel that combines rich heritage with modernity. This iconic property pays homage to the past while looking towards the future. It has evolved into a five-star boutique hotel, with luxury infused into every detail, ensuring guests enjoy a world-class experience from the moment they arrive. You will feel right at home in this timeless hotel, which boasts every modern touch imaginable.
The Marine is one of South Africa’s most spectacular seaside hotels. Located on Hermanus’ famous cliff path, overlooking the breathtaking Walker Bay in the Western Cape’s Overberg region, this Small Luxury Hotels of the World property is the ultimate location for whale watching during our whale season – most often directly from the comfort of the sea view bedrooms.
The Plettenberg, situated on a rocky headland in Plettenberg Bay, along the famous Garden Route – is the ultimate South African seaside escape. The five-star Small Luxury Hotels of the World property, with its 35 beautifully appointed rooms and two family-style villas, showcases the most breathtaking vistas in Southern Africa, with views of the ocean, mountains and endless stretches of golden sand. Guests may enjoy world-class cuisine courtesy of The Restaurant at The Plettenberg, where fresh seafood is the order of the day.
The five-star Kichaka Lodge is constructed in natural stone and thatch which blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The lodge was extensively re-built in 2020. The décor of the new Kichaka is a modern uptake of traditional safari and colonial style and the ambiance created is one of comfortable elegance. There is a sociable cocktail bar and sitting area, opening up onto a viewing deck where there are bar stools facing the waterhole and a counter on which guests can place cameras and binoculars – and of course a cocktail from the bar. There is a stately dining room as well as outdoor dining on the large main deck, and fireside dinners are held in the atmospheric boma on clear evenings. The suites have been perfectly positioned to maximise the sense of being in the bush. The architect-designed spa, set above the waterhole, boasts floor-to-ceiling, panoramic windows enabling guests to peer out at the nearby ‘hippo hollow’ in absolute privacy. Kichaka Lodge also boasts a well-equipped gym.
Relax and recharge at the Spa. Each one of these properties has a unique spa offering a variety of relaxing treatments.
Tick off some unique experiences on the whale route including boat based whale watching and shark cage diving.
The Plettenberg on the Garden Route is undoubtedly the ultimate South African seaside escape.
Useful things to know before you embark on this amazing journey
