The most beautiful region of South Africa (we think now): Plettenberg. 5 addresses not to be missed
Route 62 may not mean anything to you yet, and certainly not the village of Montagu, but if you are planning to drive the famous Garden Route, or part of it, you will undoubtedly come into contact with Route 62, part of the Garden. Route. That route also takes you to a piece of paradise on earth, namely Plettenberg Bay. Beautiful nature and - surprise - genuinely nice catering establishments too. A South African win-win. These are the five addresses that we think you really don't want to miss
''Oh Emily, I have found paradise! As I stand here overlooking the beautiful wetlands and winding waters of the Bitou river I see you in every bird that flies and every tree that bends in the breeze. Come Emily, paradise is all yours' This is what the British Harry Malard wrote in 1870 to his beloved Emily, whom he had left behind at home in England, and who was not allowed to follow him until he had found paradise. At least, that is the romantic history of Emily Moon, a hotel with restaurant against the hills of Plettenberg Bay. In 2005, the couple Simon and Diane Valentine bought the site then known as the dilapidated Harry Malard River Lodge.
Son Mark, one of the country's largest art dealers in Johannesburg, redesigned the place with great taste: a bit of luxury that smells of old money, a bit of a bygone era in Little House on the Prairie style and a dash of hip Bali. Since then, the ten little mini paradises, ranging from lodges for two people to family suites, have been rented out almost constantly. And rightly so. If you were unable to book a guest bed, have dinner at Emily's by Emily Moon restaurant. Unforgettable.
Another mega topper! Walk through the center of Plettenberg (we may say Plett) and in the epicenter you will find a small shopping mall (don't be shocked by this name, it's just cute and small). The folding chairs are already ready in the courtyard (all diminutives indeed). bakery Le Fournil. Sit outside but please also walk inside to the balcony, because from 8 in the morning (yes, because hey: kids) you can sit in the sun. What to order? Delicious French toast, ditto almond croissant and a normal but successful yoghurt granola combination. In addition, the coffee is delicious! Extra fun? There is a play corner with coloring pages and pencils and there is a special kids menu with e.g. American pancakes. Everyone happy.
Old Town Italy, located in a hotel, recently had a new owner and a major makeover (first it was called The Old Rectory, a 5 star hotel. Now it is called Grand Africa Rooms & Rendez Vous) but that is not very interesting because it's all about the hotel cafe here! Old Town Italy – coffee & breakfast café in Plettenberg is located outside as a kind of balcony on the main street of Plettenberg. Why so nice? Firstly, because there is a cute coffee hatch where all the warm and delicious food comes from. Coffee, croissants, toast and whatever else you just felt like.
A real discovery The Barn on 62 — you could just call it a hidden gem. The barn is run by the cheerful Welancha who gives new shine to the concept of hospitality. Her smile is contagious and a warmer welcome than that of Welancha is almost impossible. Then of course you have already won half the match. Although it doesn't stop there: the setting of The Barn (that's what it is: a beautifully decorated barn, oh so charming) is beautiful and both inside and outside it is nice to relax with an iced or Mocha coffee (the coffee menu is gigantic) and a homemade brownie. If you stop for lunch, you won't be disappointed. Please note: The Barn on 62 is closed on Mondays. The rest of the week Welancha will receive you from half past eight in the morning to four in the afternoon.
Have you already reserved Emily Moon for dinner in Plettenberg Bay? Right? If you don't already sleep there, of course. That's what we would do if we were to take a road trip along South Africa's famous Garden Route. Up to you, but don't say we didn't tell you. However, a day in South Africa is not complete without an extensive lunch. Enter Bramon Wine Estate. Highly recommended. Again? Yes. Again. At this wine farm you can literally sit among the grapes if you want. Read more
