The three rooms at this über-modern, stylish B&B in upmarket Wilderness have king-size beds and lots of thoughtful extras, such as slippers and heated towel racks. It's hard to choose from the colour-themed guestrooms: two have fireplaces, one has a glass-enclosed shower room with ocean panoramas. The White Room has the best views, with fabulous outlooks over the coast from floor-to-ceiling windows across the entire wall, and is probably the most luxurious – the massage chair will soon soothe hunched driving shoulders. Expect a great breakfast from the owner Peter, a trained chef.
Rooms from ZAR1900 ($196). See phoenixguesthouse.com
The Garden Route's natural splendours come together at Knysna, where this hotel stands on reclaimed, bridge-linked Thesen Island in the lagoon. The Turbine isn't for those seeking country casual. Housed in a former power station, the canal-side hotel remains studded with old machinery and is strictly urban-chic. Suites are all different, and their spaciousness is a big plus: expect huge beds and en suites with shower, bath and double basins. Three bar areas, two restaurants, pool and spa mean you barely have to leave its confines if you need a day off sightseeing.
Rooms from ZAR2250 ($223). See turbinehotel.co.za
If you stay three kilometres out of Knysna on the cliffs, you sacrifice beachside living for sumptuous coastal views, best appreciated while afloat in the Hide's infinity pool, where champagne and oysters are served at sunset. The rustic, stone-and-wood complex has a central lodge – good for a drink and chat with other travellers – and individual bush cabins on the model of safari accommodation. The seven cabins have spa baths, double showers and private decks and are often booked by honeymooners; only four have full coastal views. Underfloor heating is a winter bonus.
Rooms from ZAR 1560 ($161). See elephanthide.co.za
Knysna is a focal point for Garden Route accommodations, and Amanzi is another graced with coastal scenery, in this case towards Knysna Heads and the Indian Ocean beyond. The lodge's patio is the best spot to appreciate the setting, especially over breakfast as birds flit in the surrounding trees – turacos, rather disconcertingly, bark like dogs. If you want to get active in the landscape, Amanzi provides complimentary kayaks and bicycles. Guestrooms either look over lagoon or gardens, where there's a swimming pool. Children by advance arrangement only.
Rooms from ZAR2380 ($246). See amanzilodge.co.za
Robberg Peninsula near Plettenberg Bay is a playground for seals, humpbacked whales and international surfers. If you care to linger for more than a night, this self-catering apartment sleeps two and has a separate lounge and kitchenette though, given the bargain prices and quality of South African restaurants, you'll have little incentive to cook. A petite deck provides coastal views over meals. The bathroom has a separate shower and bath. An agreeable sand-and-white colour scheme, attention to detail (fine linens, fluffy towels) and luxury finishes provide very comfortable R&R.
Rooms from ZAR900 ($93). See plettenbergbayinfo.co.za
Tucked away in the countryside just outside Plettenberg Bay on the fringe of Tsitsikamma National Park, surrounded by trees and seemingly afloat in its large saltwater pool, this lodge is for those searching for that bush-retreat feel. It doesn't have an ultra-luxe edge, but it offers a laidback African-Zen atmosphere, with rooms looking out onto lily ponds and an aroma-therapist on hand to waft you away with a tension-relieving massage. The restaurant is a taste treat: try harissa-flavoured local fish or the rich saltimbocca with mash and peas.
Rooms from ZAR 1190 ($124). See lilypond.co.za
The writer travelled courtesy of South African Tourism.
