Plettenberg Bay

Pristine stretches of unspoiled beaches with eerie rocky outcrops earned Plett its Portuguese nickname, 'beautiful bay.' More recently, it was christened 'The jewel of The Garden Route.' Those motivated by the opportunity to soak up the rays, read a few novels and take daily naps adore the region's tranquil rural settings, which are set against towering resort and boutique hotels studded with stars. It's easy to relax in Plett. The undemanding lifestyles of the locals lend the area a casual air ideal for that lazy vacation. Activities guaranteed to keep the heart rate down include star gazing from Robberg beach, strolling along Keurbooms lagoon and receiving some decadent pampering at any of the luscious hotel spas in the area.

After the late dusk, take over the dance floor at the cozy clubs on Main road and get to know the subcultures of residents, who generally exist in a sleepy stupor. You will meet the Gucci-clad Sandton vacationer, the local beach dwelling youths and the Springbok farm folk.  The only locals you are likely to find carrying tension in their shoulders are those who are on holiday in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa from Gauteng. Evade the holiday crowds by escaping to the magnificent Keurboomstrand, a resort region with spectacular beaches and cuisine. The Keurbooms River meanders through secluded natural reserve territory and is ideal for an overnight canoe trip. A rustic cabin provides shelter at sunset. Urban gastronomers are unlikely to appreciate Plett's lazy service but its cuisine industry has begun to flourish in recent years. Treat yourself to tapas at Bramon Wine Estate, or enjoy the delectable offerings of Plett's most renowned restaurant, Zinzi.

Novice cavers who are keen for a thrilling adventure take the Cago Caves Adventure tour, which weaves through startlingly lit halls, avenues and alleys. . The hanging crystal gardens are eerily shaped helictites that are lit through a crystal wall. Crawl through tunnels, climb the 200 steps of Jacob's ladder and squeeze through the narrow Devil's chimney.  After a lengthy leopard crawl, you will emerge on the other side soaked in rusty orange mud. This is the ideal opportunity for adventurous hikers who have never caved before. It offers the thrill of extreme caving without demanding skill of its travelers. Those who like to keep their Nikes clean prefer the cave's standard tour, which keeps you above water level and away from narrow spaces. This trip takes you to the Throne Room, Rainbow chamber and Fairy Queen's palace. All chambers are lit, giving the translucent formations an eerie glow.

Holidays in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa will be defined by the seasons you choose to visit in. December is the month of crowds, as the vacationers' great trek from Gauteng to The Cape brings land locked locals to the coast. Quieter summers can be enjoyed in November before the holiday season arrives. Plett is generally immune to the Cape's summer heatwaves, and temperatures are mild throughout the year.

Rain falls steadily in all seasons. Winter temperatures barely plummet, reaching a moderate low of only 10 degrees centigrade. Its position between the Tsitsikamma  and Langkloof mountain range herds extreme temperatures away from the coast. Your Plettenberg Bay, South Africa holiday will thus be comfortable in all seasons.

Cozy Shebeen Living

The occasional autumn chill is best accompanied by a cozy shebeen crowd and a stiff glass of African beer to the sounds of kwaito. Parties don't come any more vibrant than those happening at Club 702 in Khayelethu. Those in search of reggae rhythms will adore the irie vibes of Rastafarian Judah Square, where a ragtag brand keeps guests bopping throughout the night. True African cuisine and drumming sessions can be enjoyed at the taverns and restaurants in this township. Those staying at a hotel in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa will find their African vibes in the nearby Quolweni settlement, which overlooks the overpowering Tsitsikamma mountains.

Winter Whales by Air and Boat

Holidays to Plettenberg Bay, South Africa should always entail a marine safari in search of the Indian Ocean's friendliest finned mammals. Southern Rights move from their chilly Antarctic setting to the warmer waters of Plett. The depths near the shore allow for the occasional land based confrontation only meters away from land. Robberg's lofty reserve terrain is ideal for cliff based views, whilst boating safaris take you in for closer confrontations. Between May and February, whale populations climb but winter is the time for the titanic Southern Rights. Bryde's whales, humpbacks and the fluffier Cape fur seals can all be spotted from the peninsula of Robberg Reserve. Alternatively, take in an aerial view of Plett and its whales from the vantage point of a helicopter. The optimum Plettenberg Bay, South Africa hotel to book into for a whale safari is situated in the rocky headlands near the coast.

Spring Safaris

When staying at Plettenberg Bay, South Africa hotels in September and October, the region becomes animated with new life. Take to the road to view birds, primates and marine creatures in their natural habitats by doing the world famous Otter Trail. The cooler weather and spring blooms paint landscapes in Technicolor. This challenging hike is ranked as South Africa's best. It takes you over 42.5 kms of rugged shoreline trails which pass a tough series of boulders and a magnificent waterfall. Overnight accommodation comes in the form of huts, camping facilities and chalets. Thereafter, you will confront rocky coastal trails with ocean views, riverside walks and gloomy estuaries.

Summer Birding

Birds of Eden is a colossal dome that covers 3.2 hectares of forest, making it the biggest free flight aviary in the world. The habitat supports 250 feathered species, which can be viewed independently of guides on a 1.2km walkway through the dense jungle. The foliage is sufficiently sparse to allow for unfettered observation. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that visitors are able to view birds as they freely go about their daily duties of nesting, breeding and feeding. The partner dome belongs to the adjacent Monkeyland, which houses rescued primates from a number of exotic and indigenous areas. Guides help visitors to track species in this luxurious natural habitat. A stream, ponds and waterfalls act as ideal picnic grounds. Those booking into hotels in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa during the rainy summer months will be treated to the spectacular courting rituals of breeding season.