At Amakaya Backpackers, we’re naturally of the opinion that Plettenberg Bay is simply one of the best places on earth and for good reason: we have 4 Blue Flag beaches, winelands, adrenalin activities and all sorts of animal encounters on top of our forest, Fynbos and mountains. We’re a top birding destination and the iconic Robberg Peninsula forms a permanent feature in almost every photo.
Plett in summer is the envy of every other seaside town as visitors flock in from all over the country, and the world to enjoy our natural beauty, polo season and much more, but what if you’re looking for something new to discover in Plett? Something a bit out-of-the-way to make your trip to Plettenberg Bay extra special? Here’s our list of 5 of Plett’s best kept secrets:
Robberg Rock Pools
While Robberg Peninsula is magnificent from afar; it is even more interesting close up. With 3 circular walks, the Gap, Witsand and Point walks, hikers, birders and trail runners name Robberg one of their favourite Plett stops. But if you stray a bit from the Gap, you’ll find some awesome little rock pools for a quick swim, rock pool gazing or an epic holiday shot like this one.
Le Fournil de Plett
A little bit of France in Plett. Le Fournil de Plett is set off Plett’s Main Street in a delightfully cool courtyard surrounded by boutiques, galleries and book stores. Le Fournil brings a French flair to Plett with delicious coffee, absolutely delicious Croque Monsieur and a to-die-for salted caramel cheesecake. Their menu is quite intriguing, using fresh ingredients, and is the ideal place to stop and stay a while.
Salt River
Salt River is not what comes to mind when one thinks of Plett – it looks, and feels, more like a deserted island somewhere off the South American coastline; but it’s actually just a few kilometres outside of Plett. Accessed either via a hike downward from The Crags or along the coast and through the forest from Nature’s Valley. It’s a bit of a trek, but sitting on this undisturbed beach is well worth the effort.
Sea Lounge at Beacon Isle
After a day of exploring, a little luxury may be in order. The Sea Lounge of the landmark Beacon Island Hotel was constructed to literally suspend over the rocks and the ocean. With uninterrupted 180° views, you can sip a cocktail and watch the dolphins swim past just metres from the glass windows. An utterly perfect end to any day in Plett.
Harkerville Coastal Hike
One of the most astounding things about Plett’s natural environment is the transition between beach, Fynbos and indigenous forest. An excellent example of this can be found in Harkerville. The coastal walk takes visitors from forest to Fynbos with dramatic coastal cliffs and breathaking views to the pristine beaches below in an unforgettable hike.
Do you have a favourite Plett secret spot? We’d love to hear about it. Stay at Amakaya?