The Plettenberg defines boutique luxury living on the Garden Route. This classic hotel occupies a headland with the lively town to its rear and the broad sweep of Plettenberg Bay in front. Breakfast might be taken in glorious sunshine on the deck, watching whales in the bay and maybe catching sight of the famous surfing dolphins. The décor is a mixture of very contemporary public areas, with mood lighting and combinations of aquamarines, greens and white, whilst the rooms are slightly more traditional: lightly coloured pine furnishings, white linen and gentle patterns enlivened with dashes of soft colour. With a spa, concierge travel desk, excellent restaurant and elegant bar, The Plettenberg really does offer the perfect retreat, somewhere to unwind after a day spent seeing the wealth of local sights.