Garden Route
The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa

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Steeped in centuries of history yet imbued with modern comforts, this boutique hideaway in the postcard‑perfect town of Plettenberg Bay is housed in a former rectory dating from 1777. A stroll from sandy beaches and the lively beachfront village, the hotel combines a tranquil garden setting with easy access to both nature and town life.

Tucked among milkwood trees, the hotel greets you with whitewashed walls, verdant landscaped gardens and an inviting pool at its core. The main building’s heritage features, including original stonework, purveys a warmth and authenticity that feels simultaneously historic and cosy.

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Facilities & Activities

Intimate lounge corners and a bar with original beams and vintage‑inspired seating, provide ideal spots to unwind after a day exploring the local trails.

However, the heart of The Old Rectory is its tranquil garden and saltwater pool, where loungers and parasols offer a peaceful spot for sun‑soaked afternoons. Adjacent to this is a well‑curated spa housed within a thatched, heritage structure, offering a selection of treatments — from deep‑tissue to restorative facials and massages — in soothing, candlelit settings.

Beyond the pool and spa, guests are perfectly positioned to wander to Plettenberg Bay’s wide beaches, explore the indigenous forests and Nature Reserves, or stroll through town for boutique shopping and seaside dining.

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Abi

Founder & Director

Emily

Worldwide Travel Consultant

Amy

Africa Travel Manager

Dining

The hotel’s restaurant, often simply referred to by its historic name of 1777, draws inspiration from the rich culinary traditions of the Western Cape, blending African, Dutch, French and British influences into a menu that champions fresh, seasonal produce and South African seafood — think line‑caught fish and richly flavoured mussels with vibrant local accompaniments. Breakfasts are plentiful with cook‑to‑order options, pastries and fruit, while dinner bridges classic flavours with contemporary flair. Complementing the restaurant is a cosy bar where guests can relax with South African wines, crafted cocktails and a selection of spirits in a space layered with original beams and exposed stonework that speaks to the property’s heritage.

Rooms

Accommodation here is concentrated in 18 individually styled suites that unfold around the gardens, each brilliantly light and air‑filled with whitewashed walls and bright accents that reflect the coastal setting. Pool‑Facing Suites open onto leafy garden paths and include generous baths and rain showers, while Garden Suites offer the extra privacy of a secluded terrace or mini courtyard.

Across all suites, amenities include king‑sized beds, air conditioning, Wi‑Fi, minibar, satellite TV and a private terrace where the sounds of birds and rustling milkwood trees accompany morning coffee.

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Family

Families are welcomed with warmth at The Old Rectory, where guests of all ages are embraced in the inviting atmosphere. While the hotel doesn’t operate a formal Kids Club, it ensures children feel at ease with children’s meals available on request at the restaurant, and flexible dining options like in‑room service that make meals relaxed for families.

For accommodation, interconnecting suites are available on request, providing convenience and privacy for families travelling together, and cots can be added to suites for younger children when needed. Children under 2 years stay free of charge when sharing a room with full‑paying adults, and babysitting services can be arranged with advance notice for added flexibility.

The saltwater pool and easy access to safe, sandy beaches make the location especially family‑friendly, with plenty of space for young ones to splash and explore.

Sustainability

While The Old Rectory doesn’t foreground formal sustainability programs, its heritage restoration, engagement with local producers in its restaurant and commitment to preserving the character of its location reflect a quietly responsible stewardship of place and culture. In addition they actively supports Plett Shark Spotters and the Van Plettenberg Historical Society. From an environmental perspective, the hotel also draws approximately 30% of its electricity from a supplementary solar power system.

Location

Set within easy walking distance of Plettenberg Bay’s beaches and the town’s lively centre, The Old Rectory serves as a serene base for exploring the Garden Route. Whether heading out for coastal walks, marine encounters — including whale and dolphin sightings in season — or venturing to nearby vineyards and nature reserves, guests enjoy both the calm of the hotel’s gardens and the vibrancy of this beloved seaside destination.

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