Discover the Rich History of Old Rectory Hotel & Spa, a National Monument in Plettenberg
The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa in Plettenberg is a true gem and a place where history comes alive. This beautiful establishment, recognized as a national monument, offers guests an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the area while enjoying world-class hospitality.
Since the outbreak of Covid-19, there has been a renewed interest in local travel, and the Old Rectory Hotel has become a sought-after destination for both international and South African visitors. Many guests are so captivated by the hotel’s charm that they book their second stay, sometimes even a year in advance.
Originally built in 1777, the Old Rectory Hotel holds a significant place in the history of Plettenberg Bay. It was once a barracks, housing troops responsible for overseeing the storage and shipment of timber by the Dutch East India Company. In 2017, the dilapidated building was tastefully transformed into a five-star boutique hotel with 18 luxurious bedrooms. The chapel on the premises was converted into a stunning spa, offering guests a tranquil retreat.
The Old Rectory Hotel holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving building in Plettenberg Bay, making it a prominent landmark along the renowned Garden Route. Its historical significance can be seen in its unique architectural details and the rich archives that shed light on its origins.
A noteworthy feature of the hotel is the magnificent 850-year-old milkwood tree that graces its garden. Being one of the oldest trees in the area, it serves as a testament to the passage of time and the enduring beauty of Plettenberg Bay.
In the late 1700s, Plettenberg Bay, known as Bahia Formosa, was a place of natural beauty with vast farmlands and dense indigenous forests. The town consisted of only two shops, the Old Rectory, three houses, and six shacks. It was a simpler time, and the old black and white photos in the hotel’s lobby offer a glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to visualize the transformation of the area over the years.
The historical value of the Old Rectory Hotel lies not only in its architectural significance but also in its association with war, religion, and education. During a survey conducted by John Barrow in 1797, the hotel was praised for its commanding position on the foreshore, serving as a dwelling house, timber store, and barracks for troops.
In the early 19th century, Captain John Sinclair, a professional whaler, and his wife Julia Maria made the Old Rectory their home. After Sinclair’s passing, the property was sold to the Anglican Church, which transformed it into a rectory for clergymen and their families. The building remained largely unchanged during this period, apart from the replacement of the thatched roof with a corrugated iron one in 1887.
The Old Rectory Hotel’s restoration process meticulously preserved its historical essence. The architectural team drew inspiration from an early Cape Dutch photo of the building, ensuring that its original character was maintained throughout the renovation. The result is a harmonious blend of historical elements, such as yellowwood floors, oak beams, and stone walls, with modern and contemporary interior design.
One of the highlights of staying at the Old Rectory Hotel is dining at The Bungalow, the hotel’s intimate restaurant. The stone walls here have stood for over 250 years, and the elegant ambiance evokes a sense of refined dining from a bygone era. The chef, known as Chef Dayne, brings his expertise and passion for food to create a menu that combines tradition with innovation. Specialties such as the mushroom arancini, served with tomato jam, truffle sauce, basil oil, Parmesan cream, rocket, and pickled cucumber, are a gastronomic delight.
Beyond its historical allure, the Old Rectory Hotel is committed to sustainability. Plans are underway to introduce a solar project, ensuring that the hotel remains largely immune to power outages and reducing its impact on the environment. Guests are invited to explore the hotel’s surroundings, including the beach just a few hundred meters away, and embrace the vibrant energy of Plettenberg Bay.
The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa in Plettenberg offers an extraordinary experience where guests can connect with the rich history of the area while enjoying luxurious accommodations. With its commitment to preserving the past while embracing the present, the hotel is a true testament to the enduring allure of Plettenberg Bay and the Garden Route.
