Plettenberg Bay, affectionately known as “Plett” by locals, is a stunning destination on the Southern Cape coast of South Africa.
Originally called “Bahia Formosa” (beautiful bay) by early Portuguese explorers, Plett boasts a temperate climate year-round and a breathtaking landscape that includes expansive beaches, majestic forests, and pristine estuaries. Beyond its natural beauty, Plett is quickly becoming renowned for its vibrant, small wine region.
The Plettenberg Bay Wine Route offers a delightful journey through this boutique wine-growing region. Spanning a scenic route along the coastal strip, visitors can explore nine wine farms that offer guided tastings and delicious local cuisine in settings that encourage a relaxed, homey vibe.
The first vineyard was established in 2000 marking the start of this expanding wine district. Plett has become well known for its Cap Classique style sparkling wines, which use the traditional wine making methods of the Champagne region in France.
Known as South Africa’s smallest wine-growing region, the route stretches 47 kilometres along the coast from Harkerville to the Crags. This area is noted for its cooler-climate wines such as Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Pinot Noir, which thrive in the alkaline soils that help produce wines with low sulphite levels. As the wine region matures, so different varietals have been planted with Mourvèdre, Shiraz, Merlot and Grenache among some of the exciting new plantings.
Most of the wine farms have their own boutique cellars and there are three permanent wine makers in the area: Anton Smal, Sollie Sauerman and Jaco van der Watt, with Megan van der Merwe due to join them soon.
Beyond wine, Plett caters to both thrill-seekers and those seeking relaxation with a wide selection of outdoor activities and a rich food scene. Whether exploring the scenic wine route on horseback, enjoying the local cuisine, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Plettenberg Bay provides a memorable experience.
Visitors quickly grasp the unique allure of this coastal paradise, captured in the local slogan ‘Plett, it’s a feeling.’ Additionally, the region hosts an annual Plett Ocean Festival and Plett Arts Festival often accompanied with spectacular regional wine tasting opportunities.
Plettenberg Bay is more than just a travel destination; it is a blend of scenic beauty and vineyard charm, making it a must-visit for anyone travelling to South Africa’s Cape region.