Picture walking into a historic building dating back to 1777 that has been fully refurbished with a timeless decor, original fireplace and stone walls.
A stone’s throw away from world famous serene beaches that are home to the pretty pansy shell welcome to The Old Rectory, the latest addition to the exquisite Rare Earth collection.
The property is situated in the picturesque town of Plettenberg Bay. A six-hour drive from Cape Town out on the N2 highway along the famous garden route. It's a gorgeous drive that show cases South African country side at its best. Passing towns that have some of the most breathtaking views and neat little restaurants and shops, it’s definitely a pilgrimage that you need to do at least once. I recommend tackling the 6-hour drive over two days with an overnight in Swellendam so you are able to soak up as much of the trip as possible.
Each coastal town offers something unique and is worth exploring.
The hotel's heritage building dates back to 1777 and was used as a rectory by the Anglican church until the current rectory was built in 1939. It has been restored to its former glory paying homage to the old with sections of the original stone walls exposed beneath glass panels, and a breath of fresh air in the modern interior design. The hotel still uses the original fireplace where you can sit and enjoy a glass of red wine while the fire crackles away.
For the more festively inclined, there is a gorgeous bar area where you can enjoy cocktail hour on the perfectly appointed chesterfield couches.
The patio has a wrap around deck and a pristine swimming pool that looked very inviting, albeit it winter.
The main affair happens to be the dining hall. This is the property’s heritage building and there is a strong sense of times gone by in the air.
The rooms are well thought out with great attention to detail. Each room has a mini bar, coffee and tea station, tv and a king size bed. The bathroom is a gorgeous design feature that has under floor heating and a huge open shower accentuated by bright blue walls and cement floors. The interior is sleek with a neutral palette and perfect pops of colour.
Dining at The Old Rectory is a classy affair. The food is simple and well-executed. The menu has something for everyone and is vegetarian-friendly. If you find yourself eating there - do try the gnocchi, it was my favourite paired with a glass of crisp white wine!
Breakfast was delicious and some of the best-scrambled eggs that I have ever had! The offerings included stewed fruits and a preserve selection that was utterly delicious along with freshly baked home made bread (which no sane human could resist)
The area is full of activities on offer, whether wine tasting is your thing (if so stop at Kay and Monty) or your preference is hiking and whale watching. Plettenberg Bay has several animal sanctuaries that are wonderful to visit. They have rescued many animals from circuses and zoos and have given them a home that is much more humane and a lot wilder than what the animals have experienced before. It is also home to one of the biggest bird aviaries in the southern hemisphere.
If exploring isn't your thing and you would rather stay in then don't be shy, there is a Spa on site that will take care of all your relaxation needs.
The question isn't should I visit The Old Rectory, the question is simply, how long for?
-Melissa
p.s press play below to view my first youtube video. A huge thank you to Lauren-Leigh Livesey for your collaboration!
*This blog post is sponsored by Rare Earth Properties. All opinions are my own.