'Momcation' in Plettenberg Bay. Image: Theresa Gibbon
Contrary to what many might believe, a ‘momcation’ (vacation for mom) is something that has proven to be very valuable to many mothers globally. Spending time relaxing, regrouping and resting while enjoying some well-deserved me-time has been a trend taking moms by storm and it seems that it’s a trend that’s here to stay. And, Plettenberg Bay might just be the place for that perfect ‘momcation’.
The benefits of a momcation are evident. It helps to prevent parental burnout; it guides you on the path of returning to being a patient parent and it reminds you of the things you should be thankful for. It also offers dad the opportunity to spend some quality time with the kids – something that many families have found to be a game changer.
Located on South Africa’s famous Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay is probably one of the most undervalued seaside towns for the perfect momcation. Not only does it boast some of the most magnificent sea views, it also comes with an array of exciting and healthy activities. Yes, momcations are for relaxing and resting, but including one adventurous activity into your daily itinerary might just add to an already exhilarating experience.
Who knew that there are 12 registered wine estates in the Plettenberg Bay area? Bramon Wine Estate is undoubtedly a highlight for any momcation – whether you’re travelling solo or with other mom friends.
The wine estate boasts lovely al fresco dining opportunities among their vineyards, with bubbly tastings and delicious tapas that include freshly baked bread, cold meat, crisp salads and more.
If you are a keen hiker, the Robberg Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area offers you the opportunity to safely enjoy time in nature while also taking in its breathtaking vistas. The reserve is a SANParks nature reserve, which means you can even use your Wild Card membership to get in.
There is a very well maintained 8km hike, as well as a shorter 4km hike. You can decide whether you’re up for the lengthier distance, which proves to be a little more challenging, but worth it. On the hike, you’ll have ample opportunities to pause, reflect and take pictures while exploring Robberg from one side to the other.
Keep your eyes peeled for grasshoppers, birds, indigenous flowers and even some of the 10,000 barking seals that inhabit the waters below.
If watching the seals from above is not enough, you can always opt for swimming with seals through Offshore Adventures. The adventure kicks off at Hobie Beach, where your group of excited swimmers are taken to the seals with a rubber duck.
Once the seals’ playground is reached, Offshore Adventures’ team assists you to jump in among literally hundreds of seals – an experience of a lifetime. Seals swim around you, underneath you and sometimes even splash in front of you while you snorkel in awe.
The guides are very professional and hands-on, and all Covid-19 protocols are taken very seriously. They also take pictures of your seal encounter, which you can download afterwards.
This time of year, you might be lucky to spot some whales in the distance too, and the odd penguin.
What is a sea holiday without sushi by the beach? The Bungalow, Plett, a laid-back five-star stay at Hobie Beach, offers some of the best sushi in Plett. You can choose a variety of options here, with their handrolls taking the cake! Be sure to check in with them regarding their sushi availability, though as they often only serve sushi over weekends.
Their pizzas are also out of this world and come with a gluten-free option at an additional cost.
If you’re not keen on sushi, Nineteen89 Restaurant is said to have the best burgers in town. Even moms need to let go every once in a while, and burgers and daiquiris seem like the perfect pairing to help you paint Plett red.
The restaurant’s menu is rather extensive and, in addition to their burgers, they also offer a range of fresh fish options, as well as some lovely poke bowls.
For moms who want to feel like they’ve conquered the world, Knysna Ziplines’ four ziplines (soon to be six) will give you the thrill you’re after, if not more.
Gliding across the valley, with waterfalls to the one side and the sea to the other, is an exhilarating experience that every mom should have at least once. (You need to test it out before you can allow your kids to do it, after all).
As part of the experience, you even get to take a short hike, with Proteas and fynbos adding to the spectacular scenery.
If me-time is your motto for your momcation, a stay at Cape Summer Villas’ Sky Villa Boutique Hotel (or even their Villa One, if you plan to travel with other moms) should be in order. A mere three-minute drive from the beach, it is located in a tranquil estate that overlooks Plettenberg Bay, with lovely sea views too.
Sky Villa is a five-star hotel that comes with an underground cellar, a restaurant with a view, a sky bar to die for and tastefully decorated lounge areas and rooms.
Villa One, which is a self-catering unit separate from the hotel, can sleep up to twelve guests and adjacent to that is The Cottage, which can also sleep two. Villa One comes with its own private pool, a lovely braai area and a spacious kitchen and provides a little more privacy than what you would have at the main hotel. Still, you have the option of dining at the hotel’s restaurant and spending time at the public swimming pool, enjoying some much-needed, uninterrupted (unless it’s for a cocktail order) poolside lounging.
Whether you are just in need of some quiet time and a change of scenery, or whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Plett is perfect for a momcation of any kind.
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