Hosting the largest game reserve in the Southern Cape, breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and one of the most popular upmarket holiday destinations on the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay has something for everyone.
The town which nestles on the hill located on the border of the Western and Eastern Cape has a rich cultural diversity and is geared towards tourism. Regarded by many as the jewel of the Garden Route, the area offers miles of unspoilt beaches, magnificent whale-watching opportunities, as well as a number of lagoons and estuaries. There is a wealth of holiday accommodation in the area to house the increasing numbers that visit the town. It’s no wonder that the town is growing in popularity. Sporting activities such as golf, sea kayaking and diving on the magnificent coral reefs are available to those with a more adventurous streak. Lazing around on the beach or having a bite to eat at one of the numerous restaurants and bars in Plettenberg Bay has all the makings of a holiday of a lifetime.
Favourable climatic conditions coupled with thriving business opportunities connected to the tourism industry, could place “Plett” as it is affectionately known firmly on the radar screen of those considering relocating to a coastal town. Tourism is one of South Africa’s predominant industry leaders and with an estimated 860 000 arrivals per month to the country, the Garden Route has strategically placed itself at the top of the food chain.
Recognised from the very start for its beauty, early Portuguese explorers christened the region Bahia Formosa which translates into Beautiful Bay. The town has retained its good looks and according to John Fuller, the principal of Chas Everitt Plettenberg Bay, the town and surrounds remain the most beautiful and natural destination in the country.
He notes that the complete lack of industrialisation and careful town planning have preserved the look and feel of the town and this has resulted in the area retaining its exclusive holiday resort status. In addition he says that despite the political differences that have plagued so many of South African towns, the area is extremely well run. “The streets are clear of potholes, natural areas are pristine and the town’s drinking water was recently voted as the third best in SA.”
Property sales statistics released by Lightstone portray impressive figures in respect of sales concluded in the area over the last 12 months. There have been 293 successful transactions in Plettenberg Bay with the average figures coming in at R1 814m for a freehold property and R1 093m for a sectional title unit. Price indices across all price brackets point towards a good mix of demographics in the area.
Despite the slowdown in property sales in general and price decline in general terms globally, property investment in Plettenberg Bay seems to be holding its own. There were 54 sales concluded in the R1 5m to R3m price category and 23 sales greater than R3m.This perhaps indicates that despite the credit crunch the areas reputation still attracts savvy investors who don’t seem to be affected by the downturn.