South Africa’s hospitality industry continues to earn global recognition, with several local hotels featured in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, one of the most respected benchmarks in luxury travel.
Among the Top 15 Hotels in South Africa is The Plettenberg, a seaside property on the Garden Route that has become a regular fixture on the list.
Each year, Condé Nast Traveler readers cast their votes to celebrate the hotels, resorts, and destinations that define exceptional travel experiences.
A RESPECTED GLOBAL BENCHMARK
Now in its 37th year, the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards are determined entirely by readers, celebrating the destinations, hotels, resorts, and experiences that define exceptional travel. The 2025 survey was open from April 1 to June 30, during which over 757 000 readers worldwide submitted ratings.
Hotels were judged across multiple criteria: rooms, location, service, design, food, spa & wellness, facilities and guest experience. The final scores are converted into percentages, with The Plettenberg scoring 99.4%.
THE PLETTENBERG AS A GARDEN ROUTE GEM
Perched above the ocean in Plettenberg Bay, The Plettenberg — part of the Liz McGrath Collection — has appeared on the list for seven consecutive years. The property offers the perfect base for exploring the Garden Route, whether for whale watching, or enjoying the area’s pristine beaches.
General manager Ainsley Williams said the recognition was a testament to the hotel’s team and the region’s enduring appeal.
“We pay tribute to each of our staff members who played their part in securing this accolade. This recognition not only celebrates The Plettenberg’s world-class standards but also shines a spotlight on Plettenberg Bay as a must-visit destination for discerning travellers worldwide.”
WHO ELSE MADE THE LIST?
Those featured alongside The Plettenberg were:
- Babylonstoren, Franschhoek
- Last Word Franschoek
- Spier Hotel: First In, Stellenbosch
- Last Word Long Beach, Cape Town
- Sterrekopje Farm, Franschoek
- Last Word Madikwe
- Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town
- Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa, Johannesburg
- Cape Grace, Cape Town
- Tintswalo Atlantic, Cape Town
- The Oyster Box Hotel, Umhlanga
- Ellerman House, Cape Town
- Taj Cape Town
- Last Word Constantia, Cape Town
These properties showcase the variety of South Africa’s luxury hotel hospitality, ranging from urban sophistication to bush escapes.
Have you visited any of the hotels on the list? Share your experiences with us in the comments.
