The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa is more than just a place to stay – it is a living chapter of South African history, reborn as a space of beauty, comfort, and connection. Whether you come for the heritage, the tranquillity, or the coastal charm, you leave with the sense that you’ve touched something timeless.

Nestled just a few sandy steps from the beach in Plettenberg Bay, The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa is a boutique sanctuary where time slows, and luxury is defined by ease, heritage and thoughtful detail. A National Monument that has been lovingly restored, this 18-suite retreat offers guests a rare combination: intimate, coastal calm infused with centuries of history and elevated by contemporary South African design.

Plettenberg Bay is one of South Africa’s most beloved holiday destinations – famed for its pristine beaches, marine wildlife, and lush forests – and The Old Rectory sits quietly in its heart, a graceful contrast to the bustling seaside town beyond its walls. Originally built in 1777 by the Dutch East India Company, the building is the oldest surviving structure in the region. Over nearly 250 years, it has evolved from military barracks to a missionary rectory, whaler’s home, church property, and now, a sophisticated hotel that honours its storied past while embracing a laidback, modern elegance.

Today, The Old Rectory invites travellers to experience a different pace – one defined by warm hospitality, historical resonance, and the gentle rhythm of the sea.

A Story Woven into the Garden Route

Built in 1777, The Old Rectory is the oldest surviving structure in Plettenberg Bay, originally serving as a military barracks before becoming a whaler’s residence and later, a rectory for the Anglican Church. Today, this National Monument blends heritage and hospitality with effortless grace – its original yellowwood floors, thick stone walls, and casement windows now paired with vibrant South African art and contemporary interiors. Even the former church barn has found new life as a serene in-house spa, honouring the property’s legacy of care and quiet retreat.

Laidback Luxury at Its Finest

Though its roots are historic, The Old Rectory is firmly grounded in the present when it comes to hospitality. The hotel comprises just 18 generously proportioned suites, each with its own private terrace or garden space, creating an atmosphere of exclusivity and calm. Interiors are refined but unpretentious – blending rich natural materials with plush textiles, understated art, and carefully selected furnishings that feel both fresh and timeless.

A central courtyard shaded by milkwood trees leads to a sparkling swimming pool and deck – a favourite lounging spot for guests after mornings on the beach or afternoons exploring the Garden Route. The enclosed garden setting ensures seclusion and serenity, even with the town just a short walk away.

The Spa at The Old Rectory, housed in the former barn, offers a curated menu of restorative treatments. Guests can indulge in massages, body rituals, and facials using locally inspired oils and botanicals – all designed to soothe the senses and reconnect body and mind.

For dining, the hotel’s bistro-style restaurant – named 1777 in honour of the building’s year of origin – is a destination in itself. Set within the original reception building of the barracks, it blends exposed beams and stonework with warm lighting and modern flair. The menu changes seasonally and is inspired by fresh, local ingredients. Whether enjoying a leisurely breakfast in the sunshine, a candlelit dinner, or a cocktail at the bar, the food and service speak to the same philosophy that defines the entire hotel: understated luxury with soul.

A Destination of Discovery

The Old Rectory’s central location in Plettenberg Bay makes it the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding beauty of South Africa’s Garden Route. Days can begin with beach walks along golden sands or a kayak on the nearby Keurbooms Lagoon. A short drive leads to the Robberg Nature Reserve – a dramatic peninsula of rugged cliffs, seal colonies, and panoramic hiking trails.

Marine safaris offer the chance to spot dolphins, seals, and migratory whales in their natural environment, while the region’s indigenous forests invite deeper exploration. For culture and shopping, the town itself offers art galleries, boutique stores, and a relaxed yet stylish seaside atmosphere.

Despite its access to so much natural wonder and local life, The Old Rectory feels like a world apart – a peaceful refuge where one can retreat after a day of adventure or simply stay put and surrender to stillness.

Timeless Hospitality

What sets The Old Rectory apart is not just its beautiful design or historical intrigue, but its commitment to offering guests a sense of belonging. The team delivers warm, intuitive service that feels tailored yet unobtrusive.

This is a hotel for those who appreciate luxury that whispers rather than shouts – for travellers who value authenticity, and who seek beauty in the details.

W: The Old Rectory
T: +27 (0)44 533 1201
E: Reservations

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Part of the Rare Earth Retreats Collection

The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa is proudly part of the Rare Earth Retreats portfolio – a privately owned collection of exclusive South African escapes. Each Rare Earth property is thoughtfully chosen for its unique setting, immersive guest experience and deep connection to the land and community. From bush to beach, Rare Earth blends heartfelt hospitality with a commitment to preserving the stories and natural beauty of its surroundings.

W: Rare Earth