Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route, is a horseshoe shaped bay situated not far from Knysna. It was christened “Bahia Formosa” (beautiful bay) by early Portuguese explorers, named so for its resplendent natural scenery and temperate Mediterranean climate. Plettenberg Bay is a vibrant holiday resort during the balmy summer and a peaceful retreat during the cool winter, offering a wide variety of activites to keep visitors entertained throughout the seasons.

Off the golden shores and white beaches, whales and schools of dolphins frolic in the sea swell near Lookout Rocks during the months of July to October; boat cruises are available to take visitors out into the bay to experience the abundant marine life. Plettenberg Bay is also a sports mecca offering trails for hiking, canoeing, skydiving, hanggliding, mountain biking and various watersports.

Indigenous forests lying at the feet of the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma mountains are a unique mix of fynbos and temperate rain forest. Many world-renowned trails snake throughout the forest and provide hikers the opportunity to see South Africa’s last remaining forest elephants in their natural habitat. Nearly 300 different birdspecies are found in the variety of habitats ranging from fynbos to forest to wetlands.

Another popular attraction is the famous Bloukrans River Bridge bungee jump. At 216 meters high, it is the highest commercial bungee jump in the world and guarantees a powerful adrenaline rush.

For the less adventurous, the main street in Plettenberg Bay consists of cafés and shops that provide ample retail therapy for those who’ve had enough of the outdoors. Pubs, night-spots and restaurants keep the magical seaside town alive at night.