Reviewed by Guy Hunter-Watts – I-Escape

It comes to no surprise to learn that the creative force behind Bay Lodge is well-known South African interior designer. The faultlessly crafted guesthouse, on a bluff looking out across Plett’s lagoon to the rolling breakers of the Indian Ocean, is a real A-Z of top contemporary art and design.

The visual focus of the house is, of course, the sea and a virtually uninterrupted sweep of glass on it’s angular façade celebrates the inspirational ocean panorama. The open-plan lounge/diner was hiked up a level so as to maximise views and is an uplifting, light and colourful space with constantly changing plays of light from sunlight which angles in through its high, louvred windows. Wood, chrome, marble and natural fibres have been beautifully commingled; at one end is a sculpture mosaic-chip fireplace, a work of art in its own right. Bedrooms have just as much designer attitude, and staff are as bright and open as the building itself. If you are looking for a uniquely laid-back R&R-by-the-sea experience, this will be for you.

HIGHS
• Six beautifully crafted guest rooms with inspirational views
• Contemporary Cape design at its spectacular, electric best
• Great breakfast, with a high fruit content, out on Bay Lodge’s ocean-facing deck
• The hotel’s ethnic of ‘luxurious, barefoot living’ is both relaxed and pampering. It feels good just being here
• A drop-rim pool as well as a Jacuzzi up on the rooftop solarium

LOWS
• You’ll hear passing traffic and more so during the busy months of January,
February and March
• Only light meals are served at Bay Lodge but you’re spoiled for choice in Plett whose centre is just a ten minute drive from Bay Lodge