How often have you stayed somewhere with National Monument status? Aren’t such things meant to be protected by glass cases or surrounded by rope fences and security guards?

Not this one. Here, you can live and relax in luxurious style amid the history and grandeur of The Old Rectory, the oldest surviving building in the area – built way back in 1777, as the plush sign that greets you on arrival says. That’s the year after the US gained independence by the way, to give you an idea of how old the The Old Rectory is.

Over the years, it’s been used as a timber storage facility, troop barracks and bishop’s residence in Plettenberg Bay which, back in the 18th Century, was known as Bahia Formosa – or Beautiful Bay. You’ll soon see why.

Much has changed in the local area since then, and not just the name of the bay. The Old Rectory has been lovingly restored and modernised from top to bottom, front to back, still retaining the best of its original features of course, such as the thatched roof, wood beam ceilings and stone walls (you can’t just do what you like with national monuments, after all).  What was once a schoolhouse and chapel is now a luxurious spa in which you can practise the art of relaxation. And the grounds have seen the welcome addition of a swimming pool, while The Old Rectory now boasts a bistro restaurant – 1777.

What hasn’t changed much is the structure of the building which bears testament to the quality of the Dutch East India Company’s construction work of 250 years ago.

Something else that will never change is The Old Rectory’s location on the Garden Route, and its proximity to the bay’s white sandy beaches (check your online maps to see just how close to the coast you’ll be). But there’s more to see than the sea in Plettenberg Bay with Keurbooms Lagoon and the Robberg Nature Reserve both nearby and likely to be on your ‘Must Visit’ list.

Your Space

The Old Rectory itself comprises 18 suites giving you a choice of garden or pool views. Each room features unique works of contemporary South African art bringing colour and originality to your private space.

The beds are king-size, and the bathrooms open plan with deep ceramic tubs, double wash basins and walk-in rain showers. You also get access to private outside space for relaxing times in and out of the sun. Room facilities are what you’d expect from an upmarket hotel and include a flatscreen TV, Nespresso coffee maker and minibar (with free bottled water).

Yours To Share

You’re sure to be drawn to the brilliant blue of the hotel’s swimming pool – a great place to cool off after your journey to get here and following a busy day’s adventuring during your stay. Dry off on one of loungers on the decked area around the pool, before heading to the 1777 restaurant for an alfresco meal – there’s plenty of international variety on the menu, including locally-caught fresh fish. And in case you need to lap up even more luxury, don’t forget the on-site spa we’ve already mentioned, after which you might want to visit the Nibbles Bar for a beer, craft gin, single malt or glass of wine from the hotel’s winery The Crag before calling it a day.

Well Worth Knowing

The Old Rectory is family friendly, as some suites connect via internal doors, expanding your space. Cots are available for free to give the youngest guests somewhere comfy to sleep, and the hotel team also offer a babysitting service – after all, it’s your holiday too.