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🗞️“The Plettenberg Hotel Plettenberg Bay”Crowned Best Hotel in South Africa — A True Gem of the Garden Route

  • Writer: Adventure Lifestyle Magazine
    Adventure Lifestyle Magazine
  • Oct 10
  • 3 min read
Sunset view of a serene ocean with a pool and striped lounge chairs on a grassy area, beside a white building. Calm and inviting atmosphere.

There are few places in South Africa that capture the soul of coastal luxury quite like The Plettenberg. Nestled on the edge of the cliffs in Plettenberg Bay, overlooking the Indian Ocean, this iconic property has once again proven why it’s the crown jewel of the Garden Route.

Coastal bay view with green hills, sandy beach, and clear blue water. A speedboat leaves a white trail, sunny and calm atmosphere.

In the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, The Plettenberg has officially been named the Best Hotel in South Africa, achieving an extraordinary 99.4% score — the highest in the country. For travellers who’ve been lucky enough to experience its magic, this comes as no surprise.


Bright room with a large bed, blue accents, floral pillows, and a sea view. Table with chairs near windows, elegant and serene atmosphere.

Part of The Liz McGrath Collection and a proud member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, The Plettenberg has consistently ranked among South Africa’s top hotels for seven consecutive years. This milestone stands as a testament to the property’s unmatched commitment to service, style, and authentic South African hospitality.


Where Ocean, Mountain, and Luxury Meet At “The Plettenberg Hotel Plettenberg Bay”


With 35 elegantly designed rooms, including 12 luxury suites and two private villas, The Plettenberg perfectly balances coastal serenity with refined sophistication. Guests wake up to sweeping views of the Tsitsikamma Mountains, the golden beaches, and the endless blue of the Indian Ocean — the kind of scenery that makes you pause and breathe a little deeper.


Whether you’re sipping champagne by the pool, indulging in fresh seafood Amelia’s, or simply watching dolphins play in the surf, every moment at The Plettenberg feels like a postcard come to life.


Sunset over ocean, lush green hills, and a coastal hotel with a pool. Calm and scenic atmosphere, inviting relaxation.

From the Heart of The Plettenberg


General Manager Ainsley Williams shared her pride in the team’s achievement:

“We pay tribute to each of our staff members who played their part in securing this accolade. This recognition not only celebrates The Plettenberg’s world-class standards but also shines a spotlight on Plettenberg Bay as a must-visit destination for discerning travellers worldwide.”

It’s that attention to detail — the personal touch, the warmth of genuine hospitality — that turns a stay at The Plettenberg into something unforgettable.


About The Liz McGrath Collection


The Liz McGrath Collection represents the essence of timeless elegance across three South African icons:


Elegant woman in a cream suit stands on a brick path in a lush garden with trees and hydrangeas, exuding a calm, serene mood.

Each hotel blends rich history, design excellence, and exceptional cuisine — celebrating the spirit of South Africa through heartfelt luxury.

For more information or to plan your next getaway:📞 +27 (0)21 794 5535📧 reservations@collectionmcgrath.com🌐 www.collectionmcgrath.com📸 Follow @thelizmcgrathcollection on Instagram & Facebook


A Celebration of Excellence — In Collaboration with Five Star PR and Adventure Lifestyle Magazine


This feature is brought to you in collaboration with Five Star PR and Adventure Lifestyle Magazine, celebrating South Africa’s finest destinations and hospitality experiences. Together, we shine a light on the brands and properties that continue to define the future of luxury travel across Africa.


Final Thoughts from Adventure Lifestyle Magazine


Man in black outfit and hat stands with a suitcase in an elegant room with a chandelier and floral decor. Tattoos visible on his arms.

As someone who’s explored some of the most breathtaking lodges and boutique stays across the continent, I can say without hesitation — The Plettenberg isn’t just a hotel. It’s an experience. The views are breathtaking, the service immaculate, and the atmosphere pure romance — the kind of place that reminds you how extraordinary travel can be when heart and soul are poured into every detail.


It’s no wonder The Plettenberg  “The Plettenberg Hotel Plettenberg Bay” to set the standard for luxury hospitality in South Africa — a well-deserved accolade that reflects both the dedication of its team and the timeless charm of Plettenberg Bay itself.


Adventure Lifestyle Magazine

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