Unique Places to Stay Along the Garden Route

Last updated: Feb 12, 2015

There is no doubt that South Africa is a magical place filled with wonder and beauty. The Garden Route in particular is a really special and unique destination full of natural beauty, a great variety of attractions and a huge variety of accommodation options.

Here are just a few of the many unique establishments found along the exciting Garden Route:

Tsala Treetop Lodge (Plettenberg Bay) is a magical hideaway nestled privately amongst the lush trees. Here you can unwind and enjoy world-class service as well as experience absolutely breath-taking views in this serene and incredibly peaceful area. Guests can enjoy the crystal infinity pool, Zinzi Restaurant and Wine Cellar, champagne on their own private decks, a cosy fireplace and unforgettable scenery. The luxury treetop suites are suitable for 2 guests whereas the Tsala Villa is able to accommodate up to 4 guests.

Abalone Lodges (Knysna) offer a variety of self-catering log cabins boasting glorious views of the stunning Knysna lagoon as well as the estuary and Knysna Heads. Nestled between the beautiful Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, the lodges are only 4km from the Leisure Isle Beach. These wooden units are fully-equipped, feature a lovely balcony, braai facilities as well as selected DStv channels. There is also a communal pool for guests to enjoy. The lodge provides a scrumptious breakfast on request and promises a memorable stay. There are 2, 4 and 8 sleeper units to choose from.

Santos Express Train (Mossel Bay) is situated at Santos Beach which boasts blue flag status. The train is literally 30m from the beautiful Indian Ocean. This is a unique and romantic experience with spectacular views and amazing seafood. There are a variety of coaches which can accommodate between 1 to 4 guests, with each cabin being sea-facing. Double and single rates includes a light breakfast. The harbour and town centre is a mere 5 minute walk away. There are lots of activities and attractions nearby such as shark cage diving, whale watching, sky diving, game drives, quad biking, deep sea fishing, pleasure boats trips and lots more.

Knysna House Boats offer a luxurious experience with a difference. These self-drive boats are suitable for up to 5 guests and are fully equipped, including all necessary bedding and safety equipment. The boats have an open lounge deck, braai facilities and a roof top sundeck. They offer a wide variety of added extra services and rentals to ensure your stay is memorable and comfortable. The boats are located in the stylish and sophisticated Thesen Islands Harbour Town which is a multi-award winning marina development - a truly picturesque area. Guests can relax and unwind and enjoy some of the activities this area has to offer such as fishing, diving and bird watching. There are also pristine beaches and golf courses nearby to enjoy.

Nectar Cottage (Nature's Valley) is a truly peaceful paradise situated in a unique hideaway along the Garden Route. This self-catering house is in the only village located inside a South African National Park - surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty and within walking distance of the untouched beachfront. It has 4 large bedrooms and boasts a large private garden and sociable braai area. The house can accommodate 8 to 10 people and is fully equipped with bedding and linen is provided. Guests can also take advantage of the free Wi-Fi. Activities and attractions in the area include swimming, canoeing, hiking, whale watching, shark cage diving and more.

Phantom River View (Knysna) offers a variety of self-catering cabins within a fairy-tale forest setting on a private estate. Each cabin sleeps 6 to 8 guests and some feature private swimming pools and a Jacuzzi. The cabins are fully equipped and have braai facilities. Here you can enjoy picturesque panoramic views as well as a range of activities such as paintball, quad biking and hiking. Parks, restaurants and beaches are all nearby.

The Garden Route with its long and beautiful stretch of pristine forests, untouched beaches and magnificent natural beauty is truly a nature lover's paradise. It's the ideal all-year round destination, with something to offer everyone throughout the year. Make sure you book your next holiday with RoomsForAfrica.

For more information on the Garden Route go to our Garden Route Travel Guide.