#Plett Wine Route

[thetraversingtwosome-blog]

Best Restaurants in Plettenberg Bay

Best Restaurants in Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay – An Eclectic Mix of Sugar and Sea Salt Darren and I have family down in the gorgeous town of Plettenberg Bay so we often find ourselves down there exploring what the beautiful area has to offer us. Plettenberg Bay, found along the Western Cape Coastline, has boomed over the years and with the influx of visitors, there have been many restaurants and eateries sprouting up every…

[architectnews]

Horizon Villa, Cape Town House

Horizon Villa Bantry Bay, Cape Town Luxury Residence, South African High Class Home Photos

Horizon Villa in Cape Town

20 Jun 2021

Horizon Villa Cape Town Residence

Design: SAOTA and ARRCC

Location: Bantry Bay, Cape Town, South Africa

Overlooking the Atlantic Seaboard in Bantry Bay, Horizon Villa boasts the perfect balance between luxury and comfort.

The property had an existing house, which totally under-utilized the site’s fantastic characteristics. The brief called for a dynamic response to capitalise on the site, by creating an environment where the young family could enjoy an outdoor lifestyle, protected from the prevailing winds whilst still enjoying the views of the ocean. The clients were eager to utilise every possible area of the site yet ensure that they maintained privacy in this dense part of Bantry Bay.

The design was primarily driven by the need to create a family home, which accommodated the kitchen, living room and dining room in one single space. The secondary living area was to be a dramatic entertainment space, located on the level immediately below the family level – where the clients could entertain large groups of friends. The pool terrace allows for covered and uncovered areas to relax around the pool. The entertainment lounge accommodates a generous bar situated adjacent to the outdoor braai area. A dramatic gazebo structure is perched at the Western edge of the pool deck allowing the owners to enjoy unrivalled ocean views day or night.

The two living levels are located centrally in the vertical arrangement of the house on the fourth and fifth floor. “The main double volume living level is a dynamic and sculptural composition comprising the interplay of volumes, floor levels, elements and planes,” says ARRCC Director Mark Rielly. It relates directly to the expansive sea view and is framed by the bright red rectangular chimney flue and a Nero Marquina marble clad wall. The dining space opens out onto a garden courtyard with a water feature and sculpture. A few steps lead down to the glass fronted wine cellar placed directly under the main bedroom’s study which overlooks this entire spatial volume.

A glass lift connects the building vertically, and an external service stair connects the levels externally. The main bedroom and two children’s en-suite bedrooms are located of the sixth floor of the home, boasting 180-degree views of the ocean.

The interior finishes are rich and varied, including timber cladding, and richly coloured mosaic accents. Textured stone cladding adorns the internal and external walls and is contrasted against the roughness of the off-shutter concrete soffit in the living room, dining room and kitchen. The finishes are rich and varied in numerous areas in the house, including timber cladding, and richly coloured mosaic finishes.

The interiors are not over designed, but effortlessly casual and sleek. Each furniture piece was carefully considered to create a successful fusion of 20th Century iconic design pieces with understated customized items by ARRCC.

The client’s eclectic art collection plays an integral part in the interior and adds a dynamic background to the contemporary architecture. A neutral colour palette which includes walnut timber, charcoal linen and earth tones was juxtaposed with textural elements such as vintage leathers and soft woven carpets.

“Our brief was to create a comfortable family home, uncluttered and functional, yet at the same time act as a foil to the dramatic architectural envelope,” says ARRCC director Mark Rielly.

Horizon Villa in Cape Town, South Africa – Building Information

Architects: SAOTA Location: Cape Town, South Africa Project Team: Stefan Antoni, Philip Olmesdahl Interior Design: ARRCC Project Team: Mark Rielly

Photography: Adam Letch Text: Graham Wood

Horizon Villa in Cape Town images / information received from SAOTA Architects

SAOTA Architects

Location: Bantry Bay, Cape Town, South Africa

South African Houses

South African Houses by SAOTA Architects

De Wet 34, Cape Town photo : Adam Letch De Wet 34

Beachyhead, Plettenberg Bay, Bitou Local Municipality, Western Cape Province photo : Adam Letch Luxury House in Plettenberg Bay

Head Road 1815, Cape Town photo : SAOTA Head Road 1815

Plett 6541 + 2, The Robberg, Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route House at Plettenberg Bay

Head Road 1816, Cape Town Head Road 1816

Architecture in South Africa

South Africa Architecture Design – chronological list

South African Architectural News

South African Architecture

South African Architects

Website: Architecture

African Buildings

Comments / photos for the Horizon Villa – Luxury Cape Town Residence page welcome

Website: Cape Town South Africa

The post Horizon Villa, Cape Town House appeared first on e-architect.

[simona-a-marinkova]

Knysna was lovely, quiet and posh. It was time to move onto something more hip. Here it was… few hours later we arrived at Plettenberg Bay. I soon realised it is my favourite stop on the Garden Route. Here is what I liked about it!

The Hostel

We stayed at Albergo Hostel, just few minutes walk to the town centre and the town market. Plettenberg Bay is a small town so it takes minutes to walk anywhere (bear in mind it is a bit hilly!). I loved the vibes at Albergo – cheerful staff, artsy wooden decor, music in the bar, beautiful garden with loads of cactuses and hammocks! Hammocks! A dream came true  – to chill in a sunny afternoon in the hammock with a beer. It got better with braai dinner in the garden, whilst enjoying chatting to other tourists/backpackers. It’s funny that we met the same roomies from Knysna, again in Plettenberg. World is small, Garden Route is small.

Also, you can book day tours or any other outdoors activity at the reception. It’s a cool way to meet new people and get useful tips on what to do in Plett.

The Town & The Beach

Plett is a small town, however there is plenty to do – relax on the beach, go surfing, hike or do some whales watching. It’s perfect for outdoors lovers. It’s a bit quiet so not exciting if you are after party club nights, but it’s worth visiting. I spotted many Europeans over there – perhaps having holiday homes or wine estates? I also saw my ideal house – flowers, close to the beach and cute – goal for life:

We took a walk from Albergo to the local market. Note, the locals will tell you the market is the perfect place to try local food. Sounds promising. You go at the market and you see Coffee Bar, Italian pizza place and German sausages stand (something like Herman ze German in London). Is this local? In my perception not really, but it reminded me of Europe. In many cities you visit – you encounter the same food, same mainstream stuff. In that sense, South Africa is very European. As usual, there are plenty of shops for local craft arts, jewellery and souvenirs.

After the market, we continued our walk down, towards the beach. It is easy to find your way around, as the city is hilly so downwards takes you straight to the coast. On the way, there are some beautiful houses and a church that really reminds of England.

And eventually the beach, one of the most stunning beaches I have been on. Lovely place to have a walk or just chill. The waves were pretty strong, and the further you go the louder it gets. We were lucky to spot a local bird “oyster catcher” – its entire body is black with bright red beak. Sadly, I did not realise what it is until it was too late to get a pic!

Places to eat and drink

I loved having lunch at the beach, enjoying the view! We tried The Lookout, and as expected opted for the seafood options. Hake and calamari, or pint of prawns – all goes well with a beer. I had another one of Castle Lite beer (I prefer to try local brands, as I can always get Heineken in Europe).

Another beach place to try is the Flying Fish – every day they have discount offer for dish of the day. More fish for me and Flying fish lemon beer (aka radler?).

For dinner, we did try The Table – Italian place on the High street. Here I opted for Pizza with chicken and avocado.

Breakfast was not included in the hostel, so we discovered my favourite breakfast place on the garden route – Clare’s cake. It’s also on the High street, very European/French style bakery perfect to start your day with a great coffee. For my 1st breakfast I had the panini (with crisps) and the 2nd one was French toast with banana:

Outdoors and Activities

Apart from food and drinking, there is plenty to do. I was there for just 2 days so the top  recommendation was whale watching, and we did it! We booked the boat tour at the reception, and went downtown (near the beach) to join the group. It was the coolest things I’ve done, though at some point I felt boat sick. It’s a bumpy ride, so it’s best to be at the back of the boat in such a case. I admire people doing this as a job, being all day on a boat and not getting sick?! Sounds awesome to someone with an office job in central London!

Anyhow, I saw more seals than whales. Seals were fun, so playful and social. They were coming close to the boat, swimming in synchrony. So cute! And we saw a glimpse of a whale, big one! Powerful mammal, it has my respect. I was wondering what would happen if the boat was too close to the whale? Would it just turn it around? That thought did not make me too comfortable, as I imagined cold waters and sharks.

Plett was awesome! I had a blast for 2 days, and time to move on to Port Elizabeth…

The Garden Route: 2 days in Plettenberg Bay

Knysna was lovely, quiet and posh. It was time to move onto something more hip. Here it was…

The Garden Route: 2 days in Plettenberg Bay Knysna was lovely, quiet and posh. It was time to move onto something more hip. Here it was...

[theunstoppablemrsdavies-blog]

Stop 18: South Africa (part 2: The Garden Route, 7-27 Dec) Cape Town * Great accommodation at Villa Bianca at the base of table mountain * Lovely trail run * Super dinner at the black sheep on kloof street * Amazing table mountain walk with dad * Fun evening out with Pete and Lottie * Nice stroll around the waterfront and an open bus tour with cocktails on camps bay beach * Fun lunch with Alex, Gemma and Laila Somerset West / Stellenboch * Chill time at mum and dads place * Delicious wine tasting and views at Demorganzon * Incredible meal and views at Jordan's with Nix * Cheater sanctuary - encounter with Sebastian the Meerkat who loved a snuggle Hermanus * Penguins at Betty's Baai * Crayfish mania with uncle Michael * Beach walk with Auntie Andrea Plett * Incredible strawberry farm on route to plett * Fun hotel at the grand cafe and rooms * Emily Moons dinner with a full moon * Knysner quay and heads with stunning views on route to Plett On route to Port Elizabeth stopped at monkeyland and birds of Eden Addo * Stayed at and enjoyed a Christmas concert at Homefield country house * Sunset drive in the national park spotting jackets, tortoise, zebra, buffalo and 3 herds of elephants drinking at a waterhole * Canoeing down the Sunday's river * Extreme Quad biking through citrus groves Outshorn * Karoo Cooking class * Amazing mountain drives * Baby ostriches Hermanus for Christmas with the family staying at the lovely Abalone Lodge!

[thetraversingtwosome-blog]

Plett Winelands: A Must-See South African Attraction

Plett Winelands: A Must-See South African Attraction

When one thinks of wine in South Africa, undoubtedly the first place that will come to your mind is the Western Cape, or more importantly the Cape Wine Route which is mainly found in Stellenbosch. But not many know (including Darren and I until a recent trip) that Plettenberg Bay has a lively, thriving wine culture and it is now officially included within the Cape Wine Route. So if you’re looking…

[architectnews]

Horizon Villa, Cape Town House

Horizon Villa, Cape Town Luxury Residence, South African High Class Architecture Project, Photos

Horizon Villa in Cape Town

25 May 2021

Horizon Villa

Design: SAOTA and ARRCC

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Overlooking the Atlantic Seaboard in Bantry Bay, Horizon Villa boasts the perfect balance between luxury and comfort.

The property had an existing house, which totally under-utilized the site’s fantastic characteristics. The brief called for a dynamic response to capitalise on the site, by creating an environment where the young family could enjoy an outdoor lifestyle, protected from the prevailing winds whilst still enjoying the views of the ocean. The clients were eager to utilise every possible area of the site yet ensure that they maintained privacy in this dense part of Bantry Bay.

The design was primarily driven by the need to create a family home, which accommodated the kitchen, living room and dining room in one single space. The secondary living area was to be a dramatic entertainment space, located on the level immediately below the family level – where the clients could entertain large groups of friends. The pool terrace allows for covered and uncovered areas to relax around the pool. The entertainment lounge accommodates a generous bar situated adjacent to the outdoor braai area. A dramatic gazebo structure is perched at the Western edge of the pool deck allowing the owners to enjoy unrivalled ocean views day or night.

The two living levels are located centrally in the vertical arrangement of the house on the fourth and fifth floor. “The main double volume living level is a dynamic and sculptural composition comprising the interplay of volumes, floor levels, elements and planes,” says ARRCC Director Mark Rielly. It relates directly to the expansive sea view and is framed by the bright red rectangular chimney flue and a Nero Marquina marble clad wall. The dining space opens out onto a garden courtyard with a water feature and sculpture. A few steps lead down to the glass fronted wine cellar placed directly under the main bedroom’s study which overlooks this entire spatial volume.

A glass lift connects the building vertically, and an external service stair connects the levels externally. The main bedroom and two children’s en-suite bedrooms are located of the sixth floor of the home, boasting 180-degree views of the ocean. The interior finishes are rich and varied, including timber cladding, and richly coloured mosaic accents. Textured stone cladding adorns the internal and external walls and is contrasted against the roughness of the off-shutter concrete soffit in the living room, dining room and kitchen. The finishes are rich and varied in numerous areas in the house, including timber cladding, and richly coloured mosaic finishes.

The interiors are not over designed, but effortlessly casual and sleek. Each furniture piece was carefully considered to create a successful fusion of 20th Century iconic design pieces with understated customized items by ARRCC.

The client’s eclectic art collection plays an integral part in the interior and adds a dynamic background to the contemporary architecture. A neutral colour palette which includes walnut timber, charcoal linen and earth tones was juxtaposed with textural elements such as vintage leathers and soft woven carpets.

“Our brief was to create a comfortable family home, uncluttered and functional, yet at the same time act as a foil to the dramatic architectural envelope,” says ARRCC director Mark Rielly.

Horizon Villa in Cape Town, South Africa – Building Information

Architects: SAOTA Location: Cape Town, South Africa Project Team: Stefan Antoni, Philip Olmesdahl Interior Design: ARRCC Project Team: Mark Rielly

Photography: Adam Letch Text: Graham Wood

Horizon Villa in Cape Town images / information received from SAOTA Architects

SAOTA Architects

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

South African Houses

South African Houses by SAOTA Architects

De Wet 34, Cape Town photo : Adam Letch De Wet 34

Beachyhead, Plettenberg Bay, Bitou Local Municipality, Western Cape Province photo : Adam Letch Luxury House in Plettenberg Bay

Head Road 1815, Cape Town photo : SAOTA Head Road 1815

Plett 6541 + 2, The Robberg, Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route House at Plettenberg Bay

Head Road 1816, Cape Town Head Road 1816

Architecture in South Africa

South Africa Architecture Design – chronological list

South African Architectural News

South African Architecture

South African Architects

Website: Architecture

African Buildings

Comments / photos for the Horizon Villa – Luxury Cape Town Residence page welcome

Website: Cape Town South Africa

The post Horizon Villa, Cape Town House appeared first on e-architect.

[architectnews]

Horizon Villa, Cape Town

Horizon Villa, Cape Town Luxury Residence, South African High Class Architecture Project, Photos

Horizon Villa in Cape Town

2 Feb 2021

Horizon Villa

Design: SAOTA and ARRCC

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

Overlooking the Atlantic Seaboard in Bantry Bay, Horizon Villa boasts the perfect balance between luxury and comfort.

The property had an existing house, which totally under-utilized the site’s fantastic characteristics. The brief called for a dynamic response to capitalise on the site, by creating an environment where the young family could enjoy an outdoor lifestyle, protected from the prevailing winds whilst still enjoying the views of the ocean. The clients were eager to utilise every possible area of the site yet ensure that they maintained privacy in this dense part of Bantry Bay.

The design was primarily driven by the need to create a family home, which accommodated the kitchen, living room and dining room in one single space. The secondary living area was to be a dramatic entertainment space, located on the level immediately below the family level – where the clients could entertain large groups of friends. The pool terrace allows for covered and uncovered areas to relax around the pool. The entertainment lounge accommodates a generous bar situated adjacent to the outdoor braai area. A dramatic gazebo structure is perched at the Western edge of the pool deck allowing the owners to enjoy unrivalled ocean views day or night.

The two living levels are located centrally in the vertical arrangement of the house on the fourth and fifth floor. “The main double volume living level is a dynamic and sculptural composition comprising the interplay of volumes, floor levels, elements and planes,” says ARRCC Director Mark Rielly. It relates directly to the expansive sea view and is framed by the bright red rectangular chimney flue and a Nero Marquina marble clad wall. The dining space opens out onto a garden courtyard with a water feature and sculpture. A few steps lead down to the glass fronted wine cellar placed directly under the main bedroom’s study which overlooks this entire spatial volume.

A glass lift connects the building vertically, and an external service stair connects the levels externally. The main bedroom and two children’s en-suite bedrooms are located of the sixth floor of the home, boasting 180-degree views of the ocean. The interior finishes are rich and varied, including timber cladding, and richly coloured mosaic accents. Textured stone cladding adorns the internal and external walls and is contrasted against the roughness of the off-shutter concrete soffit in the living room, dining room and kitchen. The finishes are rich and varied in numerous areas in the house, including timber cladding, and richly coloured mosaic finishes.

The interiors are not over designed, but effortlessly casual and sleek. Each furniture piece was carefully considered to create a successful fusion of 20th Century iconic design pieces with understated customized items by ARRCC.

The client’s eclectic art collection plays an integral part in the interior and adds a dynamic background to the contemporary architecture. A neutral colour palette which includes walnut timber, charcoal linen and earth tones was juxtaposed with textural elements such as vintage leathers and soft woven carpets.

“Our brief was to create a comfortable family home, uncluttered and functional, yet at the same time act as a foil to the dramatic architectural envelope,” says ARRCC director Mark Rielly.

Horizon Villa in Cape Town, South Africa – Building Information

Architects: SAOTA Location: Cape Town, South Africa Project Team: Stefan Antoni, Philip Olmesdahl Interior Design: ARRCC Project Team: Mark Rielly

Photography: Adam Letch Text: Graham Wood

Horizon Villa in Cape Town images / information received from SAOTA Architects

SAOTA Architects

Location: Cape Town, South Africa

South African Houses

South African Houses by SAOTA Architects

De Wet 34, Cape Town photo : Adam Letch De Wet 34

Beachyhead, Plettenberg Bay, Bitou Local Municipality, Western Cape Province Design: SAOTA photo : Adam Letch Luxury House in Plettenberg Bay

Head Road 1815, Cape Town photo : SAOTA Head Road 1815

Plett 6541 + 2, The Robberg, Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route House at Plettenberg Bay

Head Road 1816, Cape Town Head Road 1816

Architecture in South Africa

South Africa Architecture Design – chronological list

South African Architectural News

South African Architecture

South African Architects

Website: Architecture

African Buildings

Comments / photos for the Horizon Villa – Cape Town Residence page welcome

Website: Cape Town South Africa

The post Horizon Villa, Cape Town appeared first on e-architect.

[mariaclaragomez276]

Where the SLH Team are dreaming of spending Christmas

We’ve had to use our imaginations for most of 2020 when it comes to travel, stocking up on inspiration for when we can explore the world again. While we’re planning to stay closer to home this holiday season, the most magical time of the year has us dreaming of snowy or sunnier settings – here’s the SLH Team’s Christmas wish list.

We’re dreaming of a White Christmas…

Daniel Luddington – Vice President of Development

I would head to Swedish Lapland for a Scandinavian Christmas beneath the Northern Lights at Arctic Bath, one of our newest and coolest additions to the SLH portfolio – think floating cabins, star-gazing decks and real life reindeer with a traditional Sámi herder.

Christopher Grime – Head of Product Integration

The romantic in me likes a cold and perhaps also snowy Christmas. Carol and I spent a few days in the Cotswolds in late November last year at Dormy House and whilst there was no snow, the Christmas trees were up, the smell of open log fires pervaded the air and hot chocolate or hot toddies were the order of the day. It would be lovely to go back there.

My other choices would be El Lodge Ski and Spa as I have never skied in Spain before; Hotel Rangá in Iceland for the Northern Lights and hot tub under the stars; Storfjord Hotel in Norway for those views of the fjord by the patio fire pan…and perhaps some Storfjordbrygg – an ale produced for the hotel and served nowhere else – what’s not to like; Dorsia Hotel & Restaurant in Gothenburg – I have only been to Stockholm in Sweden and I loved that, so I would love to give Gothenburg a try; and finally Hotel Lilla Roberts in Finland – I love the Art deco style and for some reason I am strangely drawn to the concept of a traditional Finnish sauna followed by ice swimming!

Rafael Pirassinunga – Operations Manager – World of Hyatt Partnership

I’d love to spend Christmas at Terelj Hotel, just outside of Ulaanbaatar. Mongolia has always fascinated me and as a proper Grinch I’d like to spend Christmas in a non-Christmassy location, social distancing from the world. It combines all the wild beauty and serenity of the steppe with comfort and services of a luxury hotel –  what’s not to like? Plus, winter is also the season for eagle hunting which is one of the coolest things in the world I’d like to experience.

Abi Tottenham-Smith – Head of Social Media

I am a big lover of a cold, snowy Christmas. I have only ever been abroad somewhere hot over Christmas once in Vietnam, and it was pretty miserable to be honest – for me, Christmas just isn’t the same in the heat, and away from family! Therefore, I would love to spend Christmas with my family at one of the SLH ski hotels. Miramonti Boutique Hotel has been on my list for a while, purely for the photos of the swimming pool and the ‘relaxation room’ but it looks even cosier in the winter, and the perfect place to spend the holiday season!

Jemima O’Lone – Digital Content and Design Manager

My travel plans have been thin on the ground this year, like everyone else, and I have longed for a hot weather holiday! However, I just can’t tear myself away from mountains, snow and open fires in the winter! So it would have to be Storfjord Hotel in Norway or any one of our beautiful ski hotels.

Chloe Frost-Smith – Digital Image & Content Executive

Although I am almost certainly Vitamin-D deprived after this year, I would always still opt for a white Christmas on the slopes – it’s hard to beat a Christmas Day ski! Le Coucou Méribel looks incredibly stylish as well as cosy, and the French really know how to celebrate when it comes to festive food. Thinking closer to home, retreating to Inverlochy Castle in the wilderness of the Scottish Highlands for the holiday season would be top of my list, for both Christmas and Hogmanay.

Gabor Toth – Global Training and EMEA Revenue Account Manager

I would like to spend the holiday season at Le Grand Bellevue, Gstaad – you have pretty much everything you want on your doorstep. Apart from being surrounded by hundreds of kilometres of ski pistes, the location offers you everything from restaurants to shops, to events for all ages. I would also enjoy the hotel’s own spa after skiing all day and in case you’re too tired or lazy, you can dine in at the hotel, where you can choose from their Michelin-starred menu, featuring amazing sushi or traditional Swiss cuisine.

Patrick Pieters – Senior Revenue Account Manager – EMEA

It would have to be Nimb Hotel in Copenhagen for me – the Christmas lights in the Tivoli Gardens are a must see!

Floriana Cosentino – Revenue Account Manager EMEA

I would love to stay at Crossbasket Castle in Scotland. I have never been yet unfortunately, and love the idea of staying in a traditional Scottish castle. Their rooms look so spacious, warm and full of character. It has lovely grounds and a river just by it, with a little terrace where I would love to have my tea. I can imagine it all “Christmassy” with their special festive package –  this would make me feel it is Christmas at its best.

Crystal Davies – Senior Revenue Account Manager – APAC

I would like to spend Christmas in Eichardt’s Private Hotel in Queenstown, New Zealand. The hotel is located right in front of Lake Wakatipu, the longest lake in New Zealand which is 380m deep. The water temperature is about 15 degrees even in summer, it is so deep that it never gets warmed up! Christmas is rather hot in Australia where I live, so it would be the perfect place to escape the heat.

The hotel main building has mountain and lake view suites, and the Penthouse is on the top floor with the most amazing bathtub overlooking the lake. The hotel has a fine dining restaurant, a recently opened spa, and is in a superb location, with many shops, high end and casual dining options available within walking distance.

The amount of activities I would be able to do nearby the hotel is impressive. Many water sports and sky diving can be arranged, along with the longest bungy jump (134m) in New Zealand which also happens to be in Queenstown. If you are not so extreme, walking by the lake is just lovely. The hotel has a luxury yacht, Pacific Jemm, which takes you out for a day tour or sunset cruise – a nice way to spend Christmas with family and friends. You can be very active or relaxed during your stay, I highly recommend it.

Anna-Lisa Hafgren-Willis – Regional Manager – Americas & Travel Trade Relations Manager

I would love to experience a European Christmas market and doing so amidst the medieval walls of Tallinn would be a double treat. Returning to the lovely Hotel St. Petersbourg for a sauna and cocktail by a fireplace would be magical.

Lita Moreno – Sales Manager, Southeast USA

I would love to spend Christmas anywhere where there is snow – Stein Eriksen Residences in Utah, Le Grand Bellevue in Gstaad or Le Coucou Méribel. I don’t really ski but would love to do other activities, explore the towns nearby and get cosy in front of a fire place at night. I live in Florida so it’s quite hard to get into the Christmas spirit when it’s warm!

Katrin Holtkott – Barter Room Co-ordinator

Please put me down for Storfjord Hotel in Norway (happy to share it with any of my colleagues!) I love the Nordic design and décor, I will feel even closer to Santa Claus, and the idea of long hikes through the snow and forests with an open fire and cosy blankets waiting on my return, a good book and a glass of wine or hot chocolate (or both!) – what could be better for a Christmas break?

April Lee Smith – Group Accounts Assistant

I would stay at the Stein Eriksen Residences in the USA. The mountainous snow and wooded exterior give it an old school American Christmas movie feel. I can just imagine spending a few days here with the family.

Sunny Season’s Greetings…

Barbara Levedag – Vice President Business Development EMEA

Regarding Christmas wishes, I shall be joining the sun seekers amongst us – and my choice would be The Plettenberg by The Liz McGrath Collection. I’ve been lucky enough to have visited ‘The Plett’ once in June 2019 – a stay too short. My heart beats for the stellar beauty that is South Africa.

Situated along one of the country’s many incredible sights – the Garden Route – the hotel enjoys a prime position right on one of the many beautiful white sandy beaches around the small town of Plettenberg. Watch the Indian and the Atlantic Ocean meet – including whales (seasonally) and dolphins if you’re lucky from the hotel’s beautiful terrace or from one of their delightful Corner Suites.

The property’s feel good vibes coupled with a genuine friendliness of a wonderful team invite instant relaxation in a picture-perfect beachfront setting.

Oswaldo Sampaio – Head of Quality Assurance

Whilst all of our SLH hotels would make a wonderful home-from-home during the holiday season, given the opportunity there is one hotel in our portfolio where I would spend my annual leave – at Baros Maldives. Despite the isolation in the middle of the Indian Ocean they have very strong Wi-Fi so one could even stay there to WFM – ‘work from Maldives!’

The property opened in 1973 – it is a grand dame that has stood the test of time and aged truly gracefully by renovating, adding new facilities and staying on trend with the latest features in modern hospitality. Their facilities are second to none and the service, provided by their long-standing staff, is unforgettable. Our best senior inspectors left Baros Maldives in awe: awarded the 2017 Resort Hotel of the Year by SLH, I came to Baros with pretty high expectations. My experience at this hotel sets the benchmark of what an SLH experience should be – it was nothing short of amazing. Very proper, traditional hospitality in paradise, a well-oiled operation that I can’t wait to experience again one day.

Suzanne Drew – Director SLH Finance and Data Protection Officer

I would like to spend Christmas at The Sandpiper, after a year of feeling trapped inside and seeing very little sun, Barbados would provide a welcome respite from the gloomy UK winter.  The smell and sound of the Caribbean Sea, a Rum Sour from Harold’s Bar and the sunshine on my skin are what I need.

Joanna Renwick – Executive PA to CEO

I would love to spend the holiday season on Petit St. Vincent Island with my family. I grew up in the West Indies on the island of Grenada and Christmas for me was always a huge family occasion – my favourite part was always Boxing Day on the beach with all of our family and friends. You’d often see Santa whizzing past on water skis!

This year has been really hard not being able to see my family because of COVID-19 and it has me craving the beautiful white beaches, warm sunshine and the scent of spices in the air.

Maddy Morgan – Director of PR Worldwide

I have never spent Christmas somewhere hot and having missed out on all my holidays this year a tropical Christmas is definitely on the cards. I would love to go to Calala Island in NiCaribbean and completely switch off in one of the four suites at this ultra all-inclusive hideaway while my kids are entertained by pirate treasure hunts. Maybe I’d take over the whole island for the ultimate festive reunion!

Jessica Sparkes – Head Of Digital Performance

A usual Christmas for me is always a big family occasion, so it would need to be at a UK country house with beautiful grounds for walking off all the turkey and trimmings. However, as with everyone else this year, I am seriously craving some holiday sunshine. I would love to do something a bit different and escape the UK, traveling far, far away to the Cook Islands – staying at the Pacific Resort Aitutaki, swapping mulled wine for beach cocktails!

Laura Bizayi – Senior Digital Campaign Manager

Huvafen Fushi Maldives – because we have just been speaking about where we’d love to be right now! Maldives is on my hit-list anyway, but after the past year – the lockdowns, the current gloomy UK weather – I’d love to take isolation to a whole new level by lounging in my lagoon bungalow with 360 degree views of the ocean, basking in all of the sunshine I am so yearning for.

Viola Azzolini – Revenue Account Management Team Director

I would love to spend the holidays at The Norman Tel Aviv because it is pure luxury but not pretentious, small but with all the ‘essential’ services (a rooftop terrace with swimming pool, restaurant in an elegant outdoor terrace), just a stroll away from the lovely Neve Tzedek neighbourhood. Not my typical Christmas because normally it would be in the cold mountains of northern Italy but I think that we all need a change to our routine after this year.

Chloe Musumeci – Senior Revenue Account Manager – EMEA

During the Christmas time I dream of being in one of the suites at Le Barthélemy Hotel and Spa, ideally in the beautiful La Suite Plage with walk-out access to the beach. There is nowhere I’d rather be!

Isabel Urdiales – Senior Revenue Account Manager – EMEA

I would like to enjoy some winter sun at La Sultana Marrakech, and experience their one-of-a-kind festive programme, which includes a 50-minute massage and lots of other treats. They also offer bespoke experiences during the holidays like hiking or e-biking in the Atlas mountains or discovering the Agafay desert. Apparently you can also book to have a Christmas tree in your room!

Jill Liu – Sales Manager, China

I would like to stay in one of our Maldives hotels, for example Milaidhoo Island Maldives, just purely to enjoy the sunshine, blue skies, and white sandy beaches. I would also like to stay in one of our hotels with a cosy fireplace like Hotel Haven or Ariana Sustainable Luxury Lodge, with a simple blanket and a book close being warmed by the fire.

The post Where the SLH Team are dreaming of spending Christmas appeared first on Small Luxury Hotels.

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[simona-a-marinkova]

Knysna was lovely, quiet and posh. It was time to move onto something more hip. Here it was… few hours later we arrived at Plettenberg Bay. I soon realised it is my favourite stop on the Garden Route. Here is what I liked about it!

The Hostel

We stayed at Albergo Hostel, just few minutes walk to the town centre and the town market. Plettenberg Bay is a small town so it takes minutes to walk anywhere (bear in mind it is a bit hilly!). I loved the vibes at Albergo – cheerful staff, artsy wooden decor, music in the bar, beautiful garden with loads of cactuses and hammocks! Hammocks! A dream came true  – to chill in a sunny afternoon in the hammock with a beer. It got better with braai dinner in the garden, whilst enjoying chatting to other tourists/backpackers. It’s funny that we met the same roomies from Knysna, again in Plettenberg. World is small, Garden Route is small.

Also, you can book day tours or any other outdoors activity at the reception. It’s a cool way to meet new people and get useful tips on what to do in Plett.

The Town & The Beach

Plett is a small town, however there is plenty to do – relax on the beach, go surfing, hike or do some whales watching. It’s perfect for outdoors lovers. It’s a bit quiet so not exciting if you are after party club nights, but it’s worth visiting. I spotted many Europeans over there – perhaps having holiday homes or wine estates? I also saw my ideal house – flowers, close to the beach and cute – goal for life:

We took a walk from Albergo to the local market. Note, the locals will tell you the market is the perfect place to try local food. Sounds promising. You go at the market and you see Coffee Bar, Italian pizza place and German sausages stand (something like Herman ze German in London). Is this local? In my perception not really, but it reminded me of Europe. In many cities you visit – you encounter the same food, same mainstream stuff. In that sense, South Africa is very European. As usual, there are plenty of shops for local craft arts, jewellery and souvenirs.

After the market, we continued our walk down, towards the beach. It is easy to find your way around, as the city is hilly so downwards takes you straight to the coast. On the way, there are some beautiful houses and a church that really reminds of England.

And eventually the beach, one of the most stunning beaches I have been on. Lovely place to have a walk or just chill. The waves were pretty strong, and the further you go the louder it gets. We were lucky to spot a local bird “oyster catcher” – its entire body is black with bright red beak. Sadly, I did not realise what it is until it was too late to get a pic!

Places to eat and drink

I loved having lunch at the beach, enjoying the view! We tried The Lookout, and as expected opted for the seafood options. Hake and calamari, or pint of prawns – all goes well with a beer. I had another one of Castle Lite beer (I prefer to try local brands, as I can always get Heineken in Europe).

Another beach place to try is the Flying Fish – every day they have discount offer for dish of the day. More fish for me and Flying fish lemon beer (aka radler?).

For dinner, we did try The Table – Italian place on the High street. Here I opted for Pizza with chicken and avocado.

Breakfast was not included in the hostel, so we discovered my favourite breakfast place on the garden route – Clare’s cake. It’s also on the High street, very European/French style bakery perfect to start your day with a great coffee. For my 1st breakfast I had the panini (with crisps) and the 2nd one was French toast with banana:

Outdoors and Activities

Apart from food and drinking, there is plenty to do. I was there for just 2 days so the top  recommendation was whale watching, and we did it! We booked the boat tour at the reception, and went downtown (near the beach) to join the group. It was the coolest things I’ve done, though at some point I felt boat sick. It’s a bumpy ride, so it’s best to be at the back of the boat in such a case. I admire people doing this as a job, being all day on a boat and not getting sick?! Sounds awesome to someone with an office job in central London!

Anyhow, I saw more seals than whales. Seals were fun, so playful and social. They were coming close to the boat, swimming in synchrony. So cute! And we saw a glimpse of a whale, big one! Powerful mammal, it has my respect. I was wondering what would happen if the boat was too close to the whale? Would it just turn it around? That thought did not make me too comfortable, as I imagined cold waters and sharks.

Plett was awesome! I had a blast for 2 days, and time to move on to Port Elizabeth…

The Garden Route: 2 days in Plettenberg Bay Knysna was lovely, quiet and posh. It was time to move onto something more hip. Here it was...