Spectacular coastal scenery, beautiful beaches and some of South Africa's most memorable road trip experiences have made the Garden Route one of the country's most iconic journeys.
The Garden Route is one of South Africa's most celebrated regions, a beautiful stretch of coastline where forests, beaches, lagoons and dramatic ocean views combine to create some of the country's most spectacular scenery. Stretching along the southern coast, it has become synonymous with relaxed exploration, outdoor adventure and unforgettable journeys.
Along the route, destinations such as Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Wilderness and Tsitsikamma each bring their own character, from sheltered lagoons and pristine beaches to ancient forests and rugged coastal landscapes. Scenic drives reveal ever-changing views, while walking trails, boat trips and wildlife encounters provide countless opportunities to experience the region's natural beauty.
The Garden Route rewards travellers who prefer to slow down and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Boutique guesthouses, luxury lodges and elegant coastal retreats make ideal bases for exploring a region that combines breathtaking scenery with a laid-back atmosphere and some of South Africa's most rewarding experiences.
Moments of discovery often become the most memorable part of any journey, whether found through an exceptional hotel, a remarkable landscape or an experience that reveals a destination in a new light. The places that stay with us longest are those that create a genuine sense of connection.
Across islands, coastlines, mountains and vibrant cities, every destination offers its own character and rhythm. Some invite adventure, others encourage slower exploration, but the most rewarding journeys are often those that combine comfort, authenticity and a sense of place.
From luxury hotels and boutique retreats to safari experiences, rail journeys and small-ship voyages, our collection celebrates travel that feels considered, inspiring and memorable long after returning home.
Walkersons Hotel & Spa, a luxurious five-star retreat in Dullstroom, offers serene elegance amidst the Mpumalanga Highlands' breathtaking landscapes. Set on an 800-hectare private estate, it provides captivating mountain views and warm hospitality. The beautifully appointed guest rooms, each with a comfortable seating area, flat-screen satellite television, electric kettle, and private bathroom with a shower, exude refined comfort, with some featuring fully equipped kitchens with ovens and fridges. The hotel's Scottish manor-inspired design blends contemporary sophistication with the tranquil allure of the surrounding trout-rich dams and rolling hills. The Flying Scotsman restaurant serves exquisite fine-country cuisine, showcasing local produce, while The Terrace offers relaxed all-day dining with garden vistas, complemented by a stylish bar. Guests can unwind at the serene spa with curated treatments, relax by the outdoor pool, or maintain their routine in the well-equipped fitness centre, all enveloped by meticulously landscaped gardens and terraces. Popular for hiking, fishing, and bike hire, the area offers abundant outdoor pursuits, with the Dullstroom Bird of Prey & Rehabilitation Centre 17 km away and Verloren Vallei Nature Reserve 18 km away. Located 16 km from Dullstroom Railway Station and 158 km from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, with complimentary private parking and room service, Walkersons Hotel & Spa delivers a seamless blend of luxurious indulgence and the natural splendour of Mpumalanga.
From £250 per night
Mosselberg on Grotto Beach, a luxurious five-star boutique villa in Hermanus's Voelklip suburb, offers breathtaking views of the Mosselberg mountains and Blue Flag Grotto Beach. From June to November, Southern Right whales grace the seascape, visible from the comfort of your bedroom lounge. Designed by an award-winning architect, the villa's elegantly appointed rooms feature private entrances, sea-facing balconies, and the choice of king-size or twin beds, complemented by minibars, coffee kitchenettes, safes, flat-screen televisions, heating, fans, and full en-suite bathrooms with twin basins and heated towel rails. The sophisticated interiors, adorned in natural hues, blend modern luxury with the serene beauty of the coastal landscape, ensuring a refined and tranquil retreat. A superb à la carte breakfast is served on the expansive seaside deck or the veranda encircling the heated pool, offering a perfect start to the day with panoramic ocean views. The villa's huge deck and courtyard provide serene spaces for relaxation, while nearby outdoor adventures include mountain biking, scenic hikes along the beach, cliff paths, or in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, alongside golfing, horse riding, and watersports for an active escape. Located just a five-minute walk from Grotto Beach, 4.5 km from Hermanus Golf Course, 6 km from Village Square, and 14.5 km from Hamilton Russel Vineyards, with Cape Town International Airport 109 km away, Mosselberg on Grotto Beach seamlessly blends sophisticated elegance with the captivating allure of Hermanus's coastal and natural wonders.
From £175 per night
The Last Word Long Beach, a romantic five-star hideaway in the charming lobster-fishing village of Kommetjie, offers an exquisite coastal retreat. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, it provides a serene alternative to Cape Town's bustle. The six ultra-luxurious suites, each with stylishly comfortable interiors, feature plush beds, flat-screen televisions, spacious seating areas, and floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto private patios with breathtaking ocean and garden views. Every suite is spectacularly appointed, ensuring refined elegance and a deep connection to the sea's ever-changing beauty. Guests can relax by the inviting outdoor swimming pool or on the sun deck, perfect for seasonal whale watching, while the tranquil ambiance enhances the romantic escape. The hotel's attentive staff can arrange horse riding trips or windsurfing sessions, capitalising on Kommetjie's status as one of South Africa's premier surfing hotspots, offering adventure amidst the coastal splendour. With complimentary parking and a prime location just 31 km from Cape Town International Airport, The Last Word Long Beach seamlessly blends sophisticated luxury with the tranquil allure of Kommetjie's seaside village, creating an unforgettable haven for discerning travellers seeking romance and serenity.
From £230 per night
Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve, a luxurious retreat in Port Alfred, embodies the vision of owner Rip Miller, offering a sanctuary for rejuvenation amidst exotic natural beauty. Overlooking the Indian Ocean and vibrant bush, it blends coastal serenity with wildlife allure. Each elegantly appointed accommodation, adorned with African-themed decor, features a private deck with captivating ocean and bush views, a spacious lounge, and a private bathroom with a spa bath, ensuring refined comfort. The reserve's intimate setting invites guests to immerse themselves in the tranquil expanse of its pristine surroundings, fostering a deep connection to the landscape. The central bar, warmed by a fireplace, serves expertly crafted cocktails with scenic vistas, while the restaurant offers diverse dining options in a sophisticated setting. Guests can relax in the inviting lounge with plush sofas, browse the library's collection of books and DVDs, or explore the curio shop's array of jewellery, souvenirs, and books. The Africa-shaped swimming pool and large deck provide serene spaces to unwind. Activities abound, from beach walks and surfing to game drives, fishing, and billiards, with the private beach area enhancing coastal exploration. A shuttle service to Port Alfred Airport, just 10 minutes away, ensures seamless access, making Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve a perfect fusion of luxurious pampering and South Africa's breathtaking natural wonders.
From £335 per night
The Oyster Box, a celebrated five-star hotel on KwaZulu-Natal's Umhlanga beachfront, epitomises understated luxury and gracious hospitality. Overlooking the iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse and Indian Ocean, it offers breathtaking coastal vistas. The individually decorated rooms, suites, and villas, part of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, feature handcrafted furnishings, air-conditioning, and thoughtful amenities, with select units boasting private patios or plunge pools. Each space exudes timeless elegance, blending modern comforts with the serene beauty of the oceanfront setting, perfect for romantic escapes or group retreats. Dining is a highlight, with The Ocean Terrace famed for its curry and seafood buffets, The Grill Room offering sophisticated fine dining, and three distinctive bars: the Oyster Bar, vintage-style Chukka Bar, and rooftop Lighthouse Bar with panoramic ocean views. The award-winning spa, nestled in tropical gardens, complements two shimmering pools, a private cinema, and a well-equipped gym for ultimate relaxation. Steps from Umhlanga Village and the beach, with free private parking and just a 15-minute drive from King Shaka International Airport, The Oyster Box seamlessly blends luxurious sophistication with the vibrant allure of KwaZulu-Natal's coastal charm, ideal for honeymoons, group getaways, and memorable occasions.
From £270 per night
The Sands @ St Francis, a luxurious African beach house in the picturesque seaside village of St. Francis Bay, offers an exquisite coastal escape. Just steps from the beach, it boasts uninterrupted views of the majestic Indian Ocean. The five spacious en-suite bedrooms, each air-conditioned and adorned with elegant exposed beams and wooden floors, feature marble bathrooms with spa baths, seating areas with satellite televisions, and private decks or balconies showcasing the pristine coastline and infinity pool. The honeymoon suite elevates romance with an outdoor shower and Jacuzzi hot tub, perfect for savouring spectacular sunsets. The glass-fronted Octagon Restaurant, with its thatched roof, central fireplace, and surrounding timber deck, offers a breathtaking 270-degree panorama of the bay, serving sumptuous buffet breakfasts, light lunches, and à la carte dinners. Guests can unwind with fine South African wines by the living room's open fire on cooler days or enjoy the steam room, available upon request, for added relaxation. World-class watersports and activities abound, with the vibrant village centre nearby, while the Eastern Cape's malaria-free game reserves offer thrilling excursions. Located 34 km from Jeffreys Bay and 134 km from Port Elizabeth Airport, with complimentary parking, The Sands delivers a seamless blend of sophisticated luxury and the captivating allure of St. Francis Bay's coastal splendour.
From £90 per night
Abalone Hotel & Villas in Paternoster offers a luxurious five-star eco-friendly retreat with elegantly appointed rooms in natural tones. Recently renovated, it blends sustainable solar energy with refined air-conditioned comfort. Each of the 18 rooms features a separate seating area, en-suite bathroom, Nespresso coffee machine, and Netflix for a sophisticated stay. The two spacious hotel apartments include self-catering kitchens and outdoor braai facilities, while the Abalone Pool Villas on Gaatjies Beach provide fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, private pools, and braai areas for an intimate escape. The distinguished restaurant, with stunning sea views, serves authentic West Coast cuisine and Nikkei sushi, crafted from fresh seasonal ingredients, ensuring an elegant dining experience. Guests can relax in two heated swimming pools, a tranquil sauna, or the Wellness Suite with hydro beds and curated spa treatments, while the Oyster Villa Suites offer exclusive access to a private wellness area and pool. The 24-hour reception arranges enriching activities, including leisurely beach walks, invigorating swims, thrilling kite surfing, scenic e-biking, or serene horse riding. Situated 160 km from Cape Town International Airport, Abalone Hotel & Villas delivers a seamless blend of eco-conscious luxury and coastal elegance.
From £95 per night
Sala Beach House, a serene five-star retreat on KwaZulu-Natal's verdant North Coast, offers an intimate coastal escape amidst swaying palm trees. Located in Ballito's Shakas Rock district, it radiates the warmth of a friend's home. The main house features four elegantly appointed guestrooms and three suites, while a self-contained three-bedroom villa with its own pool, living area, and kitchen provides secluded luxury. Each air-conditioned room includes a desk, coffee machine, minibar, safety deposit box, flat-screen television, private bathroom with shower, and a terrace, with some offering fully equipped kitchens, ensuring refined comfort with tranquil ocean or garden views. The restaurant serves exquisite à la carte, continental, or full English/Irish breakfasts, complemented by a stylish bar, while the serene spa offers thoughtfully crafted treatments that awaken the senses and foster a deep connection to nature. Guests can relax by the sparkling outdoor pool, enjoy private access to a protected tidal pool and swimming beach, or explore unspoilt rocky coves, with the Dolphin Coast's natural symphony enhancing the peaceful ambiance. Activities such as deep sea fishing, golf, surfing, and microlighting abound, with the 24-hour front desk arranging seamless adventures. Just steps from Thompson's Bay Beach, 33 km from Umhlanga Lighthouse, 48 km from Kings Park Stadium, and 17 km from King Shaka International Airport with shuttle services available, Sala Beach House blends luxurious tranquillity with the vibrant allure of the North Coast.
From £295 per night
Jan Harmsgat Country House, a historic 17th-century farmhouse in the Cape Winelands, radiates timeless charm. Encircled by the Langeberg Mountains and Breede River, it offers an authentic retreat steeped in Overberg heritage. The ten elegantly appointed rooms, spread across three distinct buildings, blend classical Victorian furnishings with modern comforts, featuring air-conditioning, heating, flat-screen televisions with selected DSTV channels, and luxurious private bathrooms, some with freestanding bathtubs. Each room exudes its own unique style and history, with original meter-thick walls and yellowwood details creating an atmosphere of understated elegance and serene comfort. The fine dining restaurant celebrates the region's bounty, serving fresh, homemade cuisine crafted from fruits and nuts grown in the surrounding vineyards and orchards, paired with exquisite local wines from the cellar. Guests can savour meals throughout the day in the restaurant or relax by the inviting outdoor swimming pool and bar, set against the backdrop of lush gardens and scenic mountain vistas. Recognised with the Fair Trade in Tourism S.A. Trademark, Jan Harmsgat ensures a meaningful and sustainable experience. Located just 20 km from the Robertson Wine Region and a 20-minute drive from Bonnievale and Swellendam, this charming country house offers discerning travellers a perfect blend of historic allure and modern indulgence in the heart of South Africa's Winelands.
From £110 per night
Schoone Oordt Country House, a charming family-run retreat in Swellendam, exudes heartfelt elegance amidst rolling fields and the majestic Langeberg Mountains. This Victorian landmark offers a romantic sanctuary of warmth and refined luxury. The meticulously designed suites, blending seamlessly with the main house's historic character, feature special antique furnishings, air-conditioning, and plush comforts, ensuring a serene and sophisticated stay. Set on over 5,000 square metres of lush grounds, guests can wander through woodland glades, relax by a stunning swimming pool, or stroll in the fragrant rose garden, enveloped by an atmosphere of care and tranquillity. The Conservatory Restaurant serves extensive, delectable breakfasts in a sunlight-filled setting, with dinners available by prior reservation, showcasing fresh, local cuisine paired with fine wines. Complimentary afternoon tea adds a delightful touch, enhancing the sense of being welcomed by cherished friends in this eco-conscious haven. Located in Swellendam, a short drive from the region's renowned wine estates and scenic trails, Schoone Oordt Country House delivers an intimate escape, where thoughtful service and timeless elegance create a truly memorable experience in the heart of the Cape's picturesque countryside.
From £155 per night
Sala Beach House, a serene five-star retreat on KwaZulu-Natal's verdant North Coast, offers an intimate coastal escape amidst swaying palm trees. Located in Ballito's Shakas Rock district, it radiates the warmth of a friend's home. The main house features four elegantly appointed guestrooms and three suites, while a self-contained three-bedroom villa with its own pool, living area, and kitchen provides secluded luxury. Each air-conditioned room includes a desk, coffee machine, minibar, safety deposit box, flat-screen television, private bathroom with shower, and a terrace, with some offering fully equipped kitchens, ensuring refined comfort with tranquil ocean or garden views. The restaurant serves exquisite à la carte, continental, or full English/Irish breakfasts, complemented by a stylish bar, while the serene spa offers thoughtfully crafted treatments that awaken the senses and foster a deep connection to nature. Guests can relax by the sparkling outdoor pool, enjoy private access to a protected tidal pool and swimming beach, or explore unspoilt rocky coves, with the Dolphin Coast's natural symphony enhancing the peaceful ambiance. Activities such as deep sea fishing, golf, surfing, and microlighting abound, with the 24-hour front desk arranging seamless adventures. Just steps from Thompson's Bay Beach, 33 km from Umhlanga Lighthouse, 48 km from Kings Park Stadium, and 17 km from King Shaka International Airport with shuttle services available, Sala Beach House blends luxurious tranquillity with the vibrant allure of the North Coast.
From £295 per night
Schoone Oordt Country House, a charming family-run retreat in Swellendam, exudes heartfelt elegance amidst rolling fields and the majestic Langeberg Mountains. This Victorian landmark offers a romantic sanctuary of warmth and refined luxury. The meticulously designed suites, blending seamlessly with the main house's historic character, feature special antique furnishings, air-conditioning, and plush comforts, ensuring a serene and sophisticated stay. Set on over 5,000 square metres of lush grounds, guests can wander through woodland glades, relax by a stunning swimming pool, or stroll in the fragrant rose garden, enveloped by an atmosphere of care and tranquillity. The Conservatory Restaurant serves extensive, delectable breakfasts in a sunlight-filled setting, with dinners available by prior reservation, showcasing fresh, local cuisine paired with fine wines. Complimentary afternoon tea adds a delightful touch, enhancing the sense of being welcomed by cherished friends in this eco-conscious haven. Located in Swellendam, a short drive from the region's renowned wine estates and scenic trails, Schoone Oordt Country House delivers an intimate escape, where thoughtful service and timeless elegance create a truly memorable experience in the heart of the Cape's picturesque countryside.
From £155 per night
Abalone Hotel & Villas in Paternoster offers a luxurious five-star eco-friendly retreat with elegantly appointed rooms in natural tones. Recently renovated, it blends sustainable solar energy with refined air-conditioned comfort. Each of the 18 rooms features a separate seating area, en-suite bathroom, Nespresso coffee machine, and Netflix for a sophisticated stay. The two spacious hotel apartments include self-catering kitchens and outdoor braai facilities, while the Abalone Pool Villas on Gaatjies Beach provide fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, private pools, and braai areas for an intimate escape. The distinguished restaurant, with stunning sea views, serves authentic West Coast cuisine and Nikkei sushi, crafted from fresh seasonal ingredients, ensuring an elegant dining experience. Guests can relax in two heated swimming pools, a tranquil sauna, or the Wellness Suite with hydro beds and curated spa treatments, while the Oyster Villa Suites offer exclusive access to a private wellness area and pool. The 24-hour reception arranges enriching activities, including leisurely beach walks, invigorating swims, thrilling kite surfing, scenic e-biking, or serene horse riding. Situated 160 km from Cape Town International Airport, Abalone Hotel & Villas delivers a seamless blend of eco-conscious luxury and coastal elegance.
From £95 per night
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, a multi-award-winning eco-lodge in the fynbos-clad hills above Walker Bay, offers an exquisite five-star retreat. Its two luxurious lodges showcase the Cape's renowned flora and marine biodiversity. The air-conditioned suites, bathed in light through floor-to-ceiling windows, feature spacious lounges with cosy fireplaces, satellite televisions, DVD players, and private wooden decks overlooking ancient forests and the whale-watching haven of Walker Bay. Each suite exudes refined elegance, blending modern comforts with the serene beauty of the 740 plant species thriving across the reserve, creating a nature lover's sanctuary. Two exceptional restaurants serve African and European gourmet cuisine, crafted from fresh, locally grown produce, with full English breakfasts, light lunches, and six-course dinners included in the rate, paired with fine Cape wines. Guests can unwind with warm hospitality, explore the reserve's biodiversity through flower safaris, horse riding, birding tours, shark cage diving in Gansbaai, or whale-watching adventures, each expertly guided to reveal the region's natural wonders. The reserve's commitment to eco-luxury ensures a harmonious balance of indulgence and environmental stewardship, with every detail designed to enchant. Located just 30 minutes from Hermanus and a scenic two-hour drive from Cape Town's centre, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve delivers an unparalleled blend of sophisticated comfort and immersive natural beauty, perfect for discerning travellers seeking a soulful escape.
From £1105 per night
Jan Harmsgat Country House, a historic 17th-century farmhouse in the Cape Winelands, radiates timeless charm. Encircled by the Langeberg Mountains and Breede River, it offers an authentic retreat steeped in Overberg heritage. The ten elegantly appointed rooms, spread across three distinct buildings, blend classical Victorian furnishings with modern comforts, featuring air-conditioning, heating, flat-screen televisions with selected DSTV channels, and luxurious private bathrooms, some with freestanding bathtubs. Each room exudes its own unique style and history, with original meter-thick walls and yellowwood details creating an atmosphere of understated elegance and serene comfort. The fine dining restaurant celebrates the region's bounty, serving fresh, homemade cuisine crafted from fruits and nuts grown in the surrounding vineyards and orchards, paired with exquisite local wines from the cellar. Guests can savour meals throughout the day in the restaurant or relax by the inviting outdoor swimming pool and bar, set against the backdrop of lush gardens and scenic mountain vistas. Recognised with the Fair Trade in Tourism S.A. Trademark, Jan Harmsgat ensures a meaningful and sustainable experience. Located just 20 km from the Robertson Wine Region and a 20-minute drive from Bonnievale and Swellendam, this charming country house offers discerning travellers a perfect blend of historic allure and modern indulgence in the heart of South Africa's Winelands.
From £110 per night
The Sands @ St Francis, a luxurious African beach house in the picturesque seaside village of St. Francis Bay, offers an exquisite coastal escape. Just steps from the beach, it boasts uninterrupted views of the majestic Indian Ocean. The five spacious en-suite bedrooms, each air-conditioned and adorned with elegant exposed beams and wooden floors, feature marble bathrooms with spa baths, seating areas with satellite televisions, and private decks or balconies showcasing the pristine coastline and infinity pool. The honeymoon suite elevates romance with an outdoor shower and Jacuzzi hot tub, perfect for savouring spectacular sunsets. The glass-fronted Octagon Restaurant, with its thatched roof, central fireplace, and surrounding timber deck, offers a breathtaking 270-degree panorama of the bay, serving sumptuous buffet breakfasts, light lunches, and à la carte dinners. Guests can unwind with fine South African wines by the living room's open fire on cooler days or enjoy the steam room, available upon request, for added relaxation. World-class watersports and activities abound, with the vibrant village centre nearby, while the Eastern Cape's malaria-free game reserves offer thrilling excursions. Located 34 km from Jeffreys Bay and 134 km from Port Elizabeth Airport, with complimentary parking, The Sands delivers a seamless blend of sophisticated luxury and the captivating allure of St. Francis Bay's coastal splendour.
From £90 per night
