Having had a love-affair with Plettenberg Bay in December, we decided a little break back there would do wonders to curb that mid-year Groundhog Day feeling. We booked a few nights at Plett’s newest/oldest property, The Old Rectory. This national monument was built in 1777 by the Anglican Church and has very recently been restored to her former glory. The new boutique hotel offers 18 luxury suites, a restaurant, bar and glorious outdoor swimming pool and deck area. There’s also a spa for a little well-deserved R&R.
The Old Rectory is perfectly poised literally a stone’s throw from The Wedge, ideal for access to the beach and eliminating travel by car which can be a bit of a schlep in Plett’s busy season. Even if you’re not staying over, I can strongly recommend a meal at the restaurant, another nice alternative to what the town has on offer. And if you’re looking for somewhere for a lazy breakfast or a drink before dinner, The Old Rectory’s your gal.
It’s inspiring to see a project and property that has managed to retain the magic and integrity of the original dwellings without sacrificing anything. The original stone walls, ceiling beams, farm fireplace and much of the structure has been kept and restored. This site is, after all, the oldest in Plettenberg Bay, and that’s really special. You’ll see in my photographs an old stone structure which was the property’s original wood-store; there’s talk of restoring this dwelling which I think would make for a breathtaking function venue. Fingers crossed!
Plettenberg Bay’s first dwelling, the rectory dating back to 1777
Here are a couple of snaps I took during our stay:
My list of 10 things to do whilst in Plettenberg Bay:
- Grab a grapefruit & thyme gin and tonic at Dirt Therapy
- Enjoy a long lazy lunch at the Kay & Monty wine farm
- Hike Robberg
- Dinner and a night cap at The Old Rectory Hotel
- Enjoy a coffee and croissant at Le Fournil in town
- Zip-line the Tsitsikamma Forest
- Long lazy lunches at The Lookout Deck (their seafood chowder is my fav!)
- Stand up paddling
- Sundowners, pizza and live music at Emily Moon
- Sundowners and snacks at Enrico’s
Pack stretchy pants. If you’re like me your stay will revolve largely around food.
Click here to find out more about The Old Rectory and to book your stay. To make a breakfast, lunch or dinner reservation, call +27 11 327 3910 or e-mail oldrectory@rareearth.co.za.
Brandslut xoxo
