Plettenberg Bay, nestled snugly in the heart of the Garden Route, is known the world over for its breathtaking scenery, which includes vistas of impossibly golden beaches, dense green forests, and towering mountains. Whether you’re in Plettenberg Bay on vacation, or you’re a part of the Garden Route tour, check out these hints we’ve put together to help you find the most picturesque spots in Plettenberg Bay.
1. La Vista Lodge
If you’re looking for a place to stay as well as the most incredible views in Plettenberg Bay, then you’re in luck! La Vista Lodge is a popular hotel for tourists travelling along the Garden Route. Why? Boasting breathtaking views of the ocean, lagoon, garden, and Tsitsikamma Mountains, you won’t know where to look first. Prefer a lagoon view? You can book a room with exactly that paired with your own terrace/balcony to take in the magnificent views as you please.
Best view in Plett: Bayview from La Vista Lodge
2. Lookout Beach
Love the beach? This is a spot for you! Sunsets and sunrises are spectacular at Lookout beach. The sun shines across the bay from behind the Tsitsikamma Mountains, often turning the lagoon into a painter's palette. Take a stroll around dawn or dusk and you’ll find a colourful landscape stained with peaches, oranges and purples that are absolutely magical.
Sand Art on Lookout Beach
3. The Plettenberg Hotel
The Plettenberg is perched on a rocky outcropping with panoramic views of Formosa Bay, the Outeniqua Mountains, and miles of golden sand. Enjoy this picture-perfect view from the comfort of your suite, the infinity pool, the terrace (with a cocktail or two), or while dining at SeaFood at The Plettenberg. The possibilities, like the views, are limitless.
4. Kranshoek Trail
The Kranshoek Trail is a demanding but wonderfully delightful hike. It begins at the Kranshoek picnic area, at the top of a tall waterfall, and winds its way through the forest down into the canyon where the waterfall's stream flows. Hike to Kranshoek viewpoint for the most breathtaking views.
5. Robberg
Robberg provides spectacular views on three circular hikes ranging in length from 2km to 5km and 9km. These views extend across the bay to the Tsitsikamma Mountains, and then back across "The Island" to Knysna along the remarkable Harkerville coastline.
The Gap Beach on Robberg Peninsula
6. Whale Tail
The Whale Tail bench, perched on a small rise with views of the Lookout and Keurbooms Beaches, is crafted in the shape of a whale's tail and is a great place to enjoy the view, which often includes sightings of the incredible Plettenberg marine life.
Whaletale Bench: Popular Viewpoint above Lookout Beach
7. Salt River
Finally, the Salt River Hike is one of the most spectacular hikes in Nature's Valley. Hikers will be transported into another, more secluded world, ideal for those deserted island photographs, either from the village of Nature's Valley, along the coast and up through the forest, or downward from The Crags to the Salt River mouth.
Salts River Lookout: Garden Route Hiking Viewpoint
As you can see, there are so many stunning views in Plettenberg Bay, it’s hard to know which to highlight. All of which are perfect for a picnic, cocktails in the sun, and perfect picture opportunities. Which one will you try first?