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The African Voyager

Garden Route, South Africa

The 5 best boutique and luxury hotels along the Garden Route

Southern Africa • Stay • The 5 best boutique and luxury hotels along the Garden Route

Luxury hideaways you’ll love along the Garden Route

The Garden Route is a ribbon of lush forests, golden beaches and quaint towns along South Africa‘s coast. While the natural scenery is a draw, the region is also home to some truly exceptional luxury hotels. In this region, the hidden gems and luxurious escapes blend seamlessly with nature’s beauty. These hotels redefine what it means to stay in style, combining architectural beauty, personalised service and an intimate connection to the landscape. In this article, we share our favourite boutique and luxury hotels along the Garden Route, perfect for your next stay on this stunning stretch of coast.

Overview: Garden Route’s best hotels

01 Tsala Treetop Lodge

02 Head over Hills

03 Emily Moon River Lodge

04 Views Boutique Hotel & Spa

05 Simbavati Fynbos on Sea

Tsala Treetop Lodge

Imagine waking up in the treetops, surrounded by birdsong and dappled sunlight. Tsala Treetop Lodge, located between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, is a dreamy blend of luxury and adventure. Each of its suites and villas is like a private sanctuary in the sky, with glass walls that invite the forest inside and private plunge pools that let you soak up nature (literally). Elevated walkways lead you through this magical property, giving the whole place an ethereal feel. The lodge’s design is a mix of African heritage and modern style, which we loved – it feels authentic but never overdone. We also love the award-winning Zinzi restaurant, where the food is as unforgettable as the views. The outdoor plunge pools are also a cool addition to this property but unfortunately, they are not heated so they are best enjoyed during the summer season!

Tsala Treetop Lodge
N2 10km west of Plettenberg
Plettenberg Bay
South Africa

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Photography courtesy of Tsala Treetop Lodge

Head over Hills

At Head over Hills, it’s all about the view – and wow, what a view. Set on the cliffs of the famous Knysna Heads, this boutique retreat gives you front-row seats to some of the most spectacular ocean and lagoon views you’ll find on the Garden Route. The property features just eight thoughtfully designed rooms, ensuring a sense of intimacy and tranquillity throughout your stay. Each room is elegantly furnished, with Swedish Hästens beds for the ultimate night’s sleep. Imagine waking up in the morning, throwing open your curtains and being greeted by an uninterrupted expanse of the Indian Ocean – it’s as magical as it sounds. We love the personal touches, from the cosy fireplaces to the private balconies perfect for watching the sunset. The wine cellar is impressive too, showcasing a curated selection of South Africa’s finest vintages.

Head over Hills
22 Glen View Rd
Knysna
South Africa

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Photography courtesy of Head over Hills

Emily Moon River Lodge

Bohemian, quirky and effortlessly cool – that’s Emily Moon River Lodge in a nutshell. Set on the peaceful Bitou River near Plettenberg Bay, this lodge feels more like stepping into an artist’s home than a traditional hotel. The lodge consists of 16 suites packed with character, featuring antique furniture and tribal-inspired art. Private decks reveal sweeping views of the river, wetlands and Outeniqua Mountains. The restaurant here deserves a shout-out – it’s one of the best we’ve tried in the area, with some seriously good wood-fired pizzas. But be prepared to wait a bit, with the laid-back boho vibe comes slightly slow service – so pack your patience! For adventurous spirits, the lodge positions you close to kayaking trails, birdwatching hideouts and stunning beaches.

Emily Moon River Lodge
1 Rietvlei Rd
Plettenberg Bay
South Africa

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Photography courtesy of Emily Moon River Lodge

Views Boutique Hotel & Spa

If oceanfront bliss is what you’re after, Views Boutique Hotel & Spa in Wilderness is the answer. The name isn’t an exaggeration – this place has uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, best enjoyed from the rooftop pool or your private balcony. Blending contemporary design with a jaw-dropping coastal setting, this boutique gem is all about relaxation with a side of exceptional views. The rooms and suites that blur the line between indoors and outdoors – the floor-to-ceiling windows ensure you never miss the natural beauty just outside. Some suites even boast balconies perfect for sipping your morning coffee as the waves roll in. The Views Spa is the cherry on top – you will leave feeling refreshed, recharged and ready to take on all the Garden Route has to offer.

Views Boutique Hotel & Spa
South St
Wilderness
South Africa

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Photography courtesy of Views Boutique Hotel & Spa

Simbavati Fynbos on Sea

Set high above Sedgefield and embraced by the pristine beauty of a 600-hectare fynbos reserve, Simbavati Fynbos on Sea feels like a world of its own. With panoramic views stretching from the Indian Ocean to the Outeniqua Mountains, this eco-paradise is all about immersing yourself in South Africa’s wild and serene landscapes. The suites are modern and airy, designed to make the most of the extraordinary surroundings. French doors open to private terraces, inviting you to soak in endless views of rolling dunes, lagoons and distant beaches. One of the highlights for us was the emphasis on nature – there are guided walks through the fynbos, birdwatching opportunities and even horseback riding along the beach.