Right on the banks of the tranquil Bitou River, just 10 minutes outside Plett, lies the gorgeous 4-star retreat called the Bitou River Lodge. This lodge is more than just holiday accommodation in Plettenberg Bay; it provides an authentic (albeit somewhat luxurious) home away from home. One only has to read the comments in the guest book to appreciate how very loved this lodge has become over the years.
While the heated floors, fluffy white robes and irresistible linen give Bitou River Lodge an unmistakeable sense of opulence, the farm-style approach of the guesthouse as a whole keeps it warm and hospitable. Sue, the ever-available host, is wonderfully welcoming, always available to assist, and great for a chat over coffee.
The suites are spacious and tastefully decorated. Each suite overlooks the garden and the river, which sparkles in the sunlight as birds float by lazily. Each room is equipped with a king-sized bed (as well as romantic mosquito nets), a comfy sleeper couch, television, kitchen area with tea- and coffee-making facilities, fridge (stocked with some sodas, beers and wine), and a spacious bathroom with a shower and bath.
But it is the added extras that made our stay so very special at this wonderful guest house in Plettenberg Bay. We arrived home from a lovely dinner out to find hot water bottles on the bed, as well as fresh chocolates on the pillows every night. Under-floor heating and a ceiling fan ensure that guests are comfortable all year round. Having gone in the middle of winter, we were extremely grateful for the heating. It made getting out of the warm, comfortable bed that much easier.
The breakfasts alone deserve a review of their own. This buffet-style feast is set apart from the others by some very special features. In addition to fresh and stewed fruits, an array of yoghurts and cereals, there were hot items (these differed each day, but always included bacon, sausages and a host of added treats) and freshly baked country breads. In addition, Sue ensures an added treat to start the day off, such as scones or crumpets, fresh and hot from the oven, and served with your choice of jams, syrups, flavoured sauces and clotted cream.
The guest lounge is fully equipped with an inviting fireplace, plenty of books and travel magazines, puzzles, games and even a chess board for a rainy day.
There are canoes and oars available for those guests that want to explore the river and its ample birdlife, as well as barbecue facilities for every room that provide spectacular views of the water and the idyllic gardens.
Young ones will love Bitou River Lodge for its ample space (great for playing with balls and Frisbees), as well as its trampoline, swings, swimming pool and hammock. There are a number of resident pets (dogs, cats and horses) that will keep little ones occupied for hours.
If you manage to tear yourself away from the lodge, you will find that there is plenty to see and do within a short drive. This includes the fantastic Birds of Eden, Monkeyland, Jukani Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre (Amelia’s experience here) and Lawnwood Snake Sanctuary, as well as the vacation hotspot of Plettenberg Bay. Bloukrans Bridge, the world’s highest commercial jump, is nearby too.
Significantly, Bitou River Lodge has invested much time and money into ensuring that their water and power sources and usage are as eco-friendly as possible. So, despite exceeding the expectations of each discerning guest, they remain gentle on the beautiful surrounds that they occupy.
Bitou River Lodge is a romantic escape from ‘the real world’ and comes highly recommended for those that want to experience natural beauty that is laden with luxury and comfort.
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To book your stay at the wonderful Bitou River Lodge, contact Sue on Telephone: +27 (0)44 535-9577 or Mobile: +27 (0)82 978-6164, or visit Bitou River Lodge on SA-Venues.com.
John & Di (Surrey UK)
What a romantic place to stay on Valentine’s Day – actually ANY day. We’ve had a delightful time in this peaceful haven & Sue is the icing on the cake! Lovely!
