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10 of the best accommodation views along the Garden Route

South Africa is undeniably one of the most beautiful countries on earth, largely owing to its diverse landscapes. And there is no better place that brings together the country’s landscapes than the Garden Route. Officially stretching from Mossel Bay to Tsitsikamma, the route also features many other destinations on both of its ends, making it the perfect destination to showcase South Africa’s natural beauty. A tour of the Garden Route and its many breath-taking vistas should feature on anybody’s selfie bucket list, and what better way to experience them all than by sitting in the lap of luxury. We’ve put together a list of some of our favourite accommodation that affords the best views of this renowned coastal route. Cape Grace Hotel, Cape Town Cape Grace Hotel is located along the V&A Waterfront in South Africa’s Mother City, Cape Town. A world of retail therapy and hearty cuisine is just a stroll from the hotel lobby, but the view from your private suite may persuade you to stay in. Marvel at the city’s teeming waterfront, bustling harbour or South Africa’s very own World Wonder, Table Mountain. Throw in the stellar service and 5-star accommodation of Cape Grace, and you’ve got a view that keeps on giving. Airstream Trailer Rooftop Park, The Grand Daddy Hotel, Cape Town A caravanning trip of a different kind. The Grand Daddy Hotel swaps the Grand Canyon for the city lights of downtown Cape Town. Its roof is home to seven authentic Airstream trailers, each one individually decorated and opening up to beautiful views of the cityscape. Whether you rest your head in a trailer that calls to mind the ‘dorpies’ of the Karoo or in one that celebrates South African safari, you can be assured that each trailer is tastefully furnished, lavishly equipped and promises a well-appointed vantage point for the goings-on of Cape Town’s cultural hub. Owner’s Cottage, Grande Provence Wine Estate, Franschhoek Wherever you may choose to stay within the winelands of the Western Cape, you will be met with views of sprawling vineyards and misty mountains. One of our favourite spots is the Owner’s Cottage of Grande Provence Wine Estate. A stay in either the house’s Merlot or Chardonnay Room provides unparalleled balcony views of the Franschhoek Wine Valley. When not taking in the scenic views, guests can sit down to a sumptuous meal courtesy of the vineyard’s restaurant. Birkenhead House, Hermanus Stunning ocean views are a dime-a-dozen in South Africa. Stunning luxury ocean views are another story. The Royal Portfolio’s Birkenhead House promises exactly that. Located right on the beach atop a rocky outcrop, the individually decorated rooms overlook the Atlantic Ocean and all of the adventures it holds. When not enjoying whale-watching, horseback rides along the coast or even shark-cage diving, guests can return to the balcony of their contemporary suite to enjoy a sundowner with the ocean view as their guest. Fancourt Hotel, George Located in the forest region of George at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains, guests at Fancourt Manor House can wake to the sight of mist rolling over the Outeniqua peaks. A sprawling set of golf courses await you on the other side of the hotel, but you don’t ever have to tee-off to enjoy them. Manor House offers accommodation in either suites or luxury rooms as well as access to the estate’s many offerings. Fancourt is home to 3 gourmet restaurants and an extensive outdoors programme that promises enjoyment for every taste. Lakeside Lodge & Spa, Sedgefield A short drive from Knysna will bring you to the town of Sedgefield, a hidden gem of the Garden Route. Blink and you might miss it while driving past, but that would be a serious disservice to the small town’s scenery. Lakeside Lodge & Spa is the perfect base from which to enjoy the most that Sedgefield has to offer. A short walk across a perfectly manicured lawn will take you to the banks of the Swartvlei Lagoon, the perfect backdrop for your time at the hotel. Enjoy a range of spa treatments, sumptuous cuisine and comfortable lodgings, all while the lake’s waters idle by. Turbine Hotel & Spa, Knysna Knysna combines relaxed luxury with thrill-filled adrenaline activities, all where views of the Outeniqua Forest and the Indian Ocean meet. The Infinity Room at Turbine Hotel & Spa is the perfect spot to allow these views to sink in. Although located in the remains of an old power station, the hotel is nothing like the stark interior of its predecessor. The industry of yesteryear has made way for gourmet dining, personalised service and unmatched views of the Knysna Heads and lagoon. Tsala Treetop Lodge, Greater Plettenberg Bay Travellers often ask how long they should spend journeying along the Garden Route. The answer is always a hearty ‘as long as possible’. Tsala Treetop Lodge gives plenty of reasons why. Located between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, the lodge promises an elevated view over the Outeniqua Forest and its lush greenery. Enjoy a roaring fire in your suite after a day of adventure as the sun sets over the evergreen forest. Great Fish River Lodge, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve The Eastern Cape is renowned for being South Africa’s adventure province but it also boasts some truly stunning scenery. Rolling hills meet with idyllic beaches to give visitors a coastal destination bar none. But there are some hidden gems located further inland. Great Fish River Lodge in Kwandwe Game Reserve is one such spot. The comfort of your luxury suite and expansive views over the Great Fish River are separated only by floor-to- ceiling folding glass doors. Contemporary safari architecture merge with peaceful river views that are only ever interrupted by wildlife that come to drink at the riverside. At night you can enjoy Kwandwe’s safari cuisine after returning from a Big 5 safari through its beautiful landscape. Rovos Rail Sometimes one luxury view is not enough; sometimes you want more. A luxury train trip on board the world-renowned Rovos Rail promises the best panoramas of the country’s eclectic landscapes. From the evergreen appeal of the Cape Winelands to the rich heritage of Kimberley in the Free State, Rovos Rail flaunts the natural beauty of South Africa. Guests can extend their trip to feature even more of Southern Africa, including Zimbabwe, Namibia and Tanzania. Whichever trip you decide to embark on, you can be assured that your private cabin will be one of exceptional comfort, paired with superior service. Colin Dilland is Owner and Managing Director of East Cape Tours and Safaris. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.

Colin Dilland

Colin Dilland is Owner and Managing Director of East Cape Tours and Safaris. East Cape Tours is a South African based travel company offering bespoke tailor-made trips across Southern Africa. Colin has been involved in the tourism industry for over 20 years and is passionate about showing off the wonders of the African continent.

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5 Comments

  1. Great Fisher River Lodge has such a beautiful view. I can’t believe it is that close to the river – is there no flooding season or danger at all due to the proximity? I would love a wildlife safari where I can go home to floor to ceiling river views at night. This looks unforgettable.

  2. The view truly is incredible, Mandy! The lodge is situated in the Eastern Cape, where there is no rainy season. Occasional rainy days do occur in winter, and rivers and dams sometimes do flood, but as far as we know there has been no issue at Great Fish River. You should definitely come to SA for a safari!

  3. Climbing Table Mountain is on my bucket list!! It would take some training for me though…The Grand Daddy Hotel looks so cool, I’d absolutely love to stay there, what a unique experience, I love that you can dine right on the edge of the roof – they need to bring that to London pronto! Of course the Lakeside Lodge & Spa would be my ideal pick as its out in the rural areas AND by a lake!

    1. Well the view from Table Mountain is truly something else, Sam! It has to be seen to be believed. Grand Daddy Hotel is such a unique place. The accommodations are fantastic, but the views are definitely the highlight of the hotel.

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