Travellers in the UK and Europe are very familiar with the country house hotel. Old family manor houses or estates which have either been sold or still managed by their original families and converted into luxury hotels. Some of these homes are very grand but yet always convey a feeling of wellbeing, permanence and intimacy. In South Africa, this type of accommodation is rare indeed. So it was with some anticipation that my daughters and I visited the Kurland Hotel just outside Plettenberg Bay on the Garden Route.
Owned for several generations by the Behr family, this old farm estate has an international reputation. Twelve large but cosy rooms flank the original farmstead in a horseshoe shape. The style is English manor house mixed with African elements interspersed with original family portraits and photographs. It is a happy mix which works well and is complemented by attentive and considerate staff.
You will not go hungry at Kurland. My eldest daughter Olivia thought it the best food she has eaten in South Africa and a sixteen-year-old, well-travelled teenager is not the easiest customer. You have a choice of two restaurants, one in the original farmhouse and a more relaxed venue, Katarina’s, in a converted barn. Both are excellent and offer well-made but unpretentious dishes.
The farmstead is at the heart of a large estate. It contains an international centre of some standing for polo with breathtaking views of the distant mountains. Over these acres, you can ride, mountain bike, quad bike, jog or do very little indeed in a most relaxed way. I would recommend staying at least three days with your lover or your family. Neither would complain.
Kurland Hotel Review
Hog Hollow Country Lodge
Rates from R3 050.00 per person
Located along the renowned Garden Route, just 18km northeast of Plettenberg Bay, Hog Hollow Country Lodge offers breathtaking views of valleys and the Tsitsikamma Mountains. This enchanting lodge, nestled in a private nature reserve, is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking tranquillity.
With its proximity to Plettenberg Bay, it serves as a perfect base for exploring the Garden Route's attractions. The lodge boasts luxurious and eco-friendly suites with African-inspired designs,ensuring comfort and relaxation.
Kanonkop House
Rates from R2 500.00 per person
Indulge in the unparalleled luxury of Kanonkop House with breathtaking views of the Knysna Lagoon. This tranquil oasis offers exclusive accommodation in 7 suites, each with its own unique charm and opulent decor.
Conveniently located just 5 minutes from Knysna, Kanonkop House combines accessibility with tranquillity. Experience warm hospitality and exceptional service as you create lasting memories in this enchanting retreat.
Elephant Hide Guest Lodge
Rates from R1 885.00 per person
Elephant Hide Guest Lodge in Knysna offers a serene and splendid experience. Perched on Welbedacht Cliff Tops, it provides stunning views of Knysna Lagoon and Outeniqua mountains.
Elephant Hide's rustic elegance, created by the fusion of stone and wood, immerses guests in a tranquil ambience. With its comfortable and earthy atmosphere, this establishment is a preferred choice for clients visiting the Garden Route and Knysna.
Parkes Manor
Rates from R1 100.00 per person
Experience the elegant charm and unparalleled luxury of Parkes Manor in Knysna. This timeless guest house combines classic allure with modern comforts, offering breathtaking views of the picturesque Knysna lagoon.
Immerse yourself in a tranquil and inviting atmosphere, where every detail has been meticulously crafted for an unforgettable stay. With easy access to the amenities and attractions of the beautiful Garden Route, indulge in a truly unparalleled experience at Parkes Manor.
Robberg Beach Lodge
Rates from R1 740.00 per person
Experience ultimate Garden Route luxury and beachside bliss at The Robberg Beach Lodge in picturesque Plettenberg Bay. With four luxurious villas and 29 rooms and suites, this lodge offers unparalleled proximity to the pristine shoreline of Robberg Beach.
Enjoy tranquil surroundings just minutes away from vibrant coffee shops, bars, restaurants, and galleries. Indulge in 5-star luxury accommodation meticulously crafted for comfort and relaxation. The Robberg Beach Lodge is the perfect beachfront retreat.
Knysna Hollow Country Estate
Rates from R1 880.00 per person
Experience unparalleled luxury at Knysna Hollow Country Estate, a serene oasis along the Garden Route. Nestled in lush gardens, all contemporary "Garden Suites" offer spacious accommodations with modern amenities.
Enjoy breathtaking views of meticulously maintained gardens and two sparkling swimming pools from your private patio. The elegant Manor House serves as a central hub with a restaurant, bar, and more.
The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa
Rates from R2 895.00 per person
The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa in Plettenberg Bay in Garden Route offers a world of relaxation and adventure. Nestled in the heart of Plettenberg Bay, this historic boutique hotel provides an intimate and luxurious experience with 18 beautifully designed suites.
Enjoy the pristine beach, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments, relax at a beautiful swimming pool and tantalize your taste buds with exquisite cuisine.
Lairds Lodge
Rates from R1 764.00 per person
Nestled in South Africa's Garden Route, between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, lies Lairds Lodge Country House. Set on a 24-acre estate, it offers stunning mountain views and a peaceful retreat.
Lairds Lodge is the perfect Plettenberg Bay getaway, with easy access to beaches, golf courses, nature reserves, and hiking trails. Immerse yourself in the surrounding beauty and experience the tranquillity of this exclusive lodge.