The Plettenberg

Whitewashed walls on a rocky headland above Plettenberg Bay, with views of mountain-backed sea that the hotel has sensibly decided are the main event. The 37 rooms lean into whites, sandy tones, and soft blues, keeping the styling quiet enough that the landscape wins every time. Book a sea-view room if you can. The Garden Route's dolphins, whales, and bungee jumps are close at hand when the pool finally loses its grip.