“My name is Bond. James Bond.” The famous line from many a 007 movie springs to mind as I take in the sleek, sophisticated setting of the 5-star Sky Villa Boutique Hotel. I can picture 007 requesting a martini, shaken not stirred, at the sexy Sky Bar. With its chic design, spectacular views and gorgeous pool, it isn’t hard to imagine bumping into Mr Bond himself in this breathtaking location.
That was just my overactive imagination thinking out loud there. But what I’m not imagining is the luxurious hilltop boutique hotel that boasts an uninterrupted 360-degree view of the sparkling Indian Ocean and magnificent mountains. It isn’t hard to see why this glamourous setting, with its own helipad nogal, could very well be the set of the next 007 movie.
Fortunately, you don’t need to be an A-list Hollywood star to stay at this exclusive flagship property in Plettenberg Bay. Driving from Montagu via scenic mountain passes in our funky Ford EcoSport Black, we received a welcome similar to what I experienced at their sister property, The Bungalow, Plett back in 2020. This warm and generous hospitality is synonymous with Raw Africa Boutique Collection, formerly the Cape Summer Villas Boutique Collection.
The Sky Villa Boutique Hotel has that WOW factor and offers a world-class luxury experience for discerning travellers. The undeniably gorgeous location at the top of Baron’s View Estate with picturesque views over Plettenberg Bay and surrounds is just one reason why you should stay at this dreamy boutique hotel. Far from the madding crowd, here are a few more reasons why Sky Villa Boutique Hotel should be at the top of your luxury travel list.
INCREDIBLE INTERIOR DESIGN
The striking interior design is aesthetically pleasing with an elegant opulence, yet maintains a warm and almost homely feel throughout. The exquisite design is a visual feast for the senses. The grand entrance hall features a dual staircase with beautiful light fittings. A harmonious blend exists between the plush interiors, soft furnishings, contemporary colours and artwork.
The intimate boutique hotel exudes a warm and tranquil ambience that makes one feel relaxed in no time. A 5-star establishment it may be, but you won’t find anything pretentious or stuffy about Sky Villa. The exceptional hospitality team make sure of that.
ROOM WITH A VIEW
Our Sea Facing Suite was tastefully decorated with a host of luxury amenities. Featuring a king-size bed with fine linen, an en-suite bathroom with heated towel rails, eco-friendly bathroom products and underfloor heating, the star attraction has to be the private terrace (all room types have their own private terrace). The spectacular ocean and mountain views make this tranquil space the perfect place to sit and relax with a glass of wine while enjoying the view.
PARADISE FOUND
One is spoilt for choice when it comes to serene spaces, both inside and out. The indigenous garden is a lush paradise with dreamy views that are never far away. Here you’ll find a herb and vegetable garden, fragrant fynbos, beautiful birds, palm trees, bronze sculptures, sparkling blue swimming pool with deck chairs and umbrellas. It’s a blissful haven where you can truly unwind amongst nature.
The sensational Sky Bar with a spacious pool deck is the ideal spot for chilling with a cool cocktail or two. Once more, you are treated to breathtaking views. I know I’m banging on about the views, but when you see them in person, you’ll know exactly why.
DELECTABLE DINING
As one of the Garden Route’s most dazzling dining venues, be prepared for a tantalising culinary journey. The dining offered at Sky Villa Boutique Hotel is relaxed and casual, with an emphasis on using fresh, local seasonal produce to create delicious, flavoursome dishes of the highest quality.
Inspired by the majestic views “that pay tribute to the Earth, Sky, Heat and Water from which they come”, the extensive menu is sure to satisfy all your foodie cravings. I was delighted to note that the menu was well-priced and certainly delivered on taste, presentation and freshness.
With ample seating areas, both inside and out, we thoroughly enjoyed our dining experience. One can expect friendly yet professional service. It’s all about good food that looks and tastes delicious. My go-to breakfast is always Salmon Eggs Benedict if it’s on the menu. It was utterly sublime with perfectly poached eggs and a creamy Hollandaise sauce. Best way to start the day if you ask me! There are plenty of enticing choices if you aren’t an Eggs Benny kinda person.
The All-Day menu offers everything from wraps, sandwiches and burgers to pizza, pasta, pork and seafood dishes. They also have a Kiddies menu for the little ones. The fully stocked underground Wine Cellar includes award-winning South African wines, with champagne, craft gins, beers, ciders, cocktails on offer. A wide range of coffee, tea, juice and moreish milkshakes are also available.
Good to know: The restaurant is open to the public, so it is best to make a reservation during busy periods.
ACTIVITIES
The world-renowned Garden Route town of Plettenberg Bay offers a multitude of activities and attractions, especially for adventurous souls.
Enjoy your time in this watersport mecca with hiking trails suitable for all fitness levels, surfing, swimming, SUPing (Stand Up Paddleboarding), kayaking, whale watching, beach walks and golf.
Ever swum with seals? Hiked the pristinely beautiful Robberg Nature Reserve? Tried SUPing on the Keurbooms River? These adventures and more await. Of course, you are welcome to relax on a deck chair with the latest holiday read or try a meditative yoga class (when available) at Sky Villa Boutique Hotel.
FORD ECOSPORT BLACK – BE ALIVE, BE YOU!
Travelling in the sassy Ford EcoSport Black is a real pleasure. Not only is the all-time bestselling SUV in its class great to look at, but it is also super fuel-efficient too. Our road trip took us from the coast (Cape Town) to the country (Montagu) and back to the coast (Plettenberg Bay) on ONE tank of fuel! We only had to refuel in Plett before returning to Cape Town.
Some features include stylish 16-inch black alloy wheels, black side decals, mirror caps and a black spare wheel cover on the rear. A range of striking colours are available – Diamond White, Moondust Silver, Smoke, Blue Lightning and Canyon Ridge. With sporty good looks, the Ford EcoSport Black is an ideal vehicle for long road trips.
2022 VALENTINE’S DAY SPECIAL
Treat your loved one to a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway that they will never forget. For a premium Valentine’s celebration- of- love, book Sky Villa’s Perfect Date Package – R5 200 per couple – includes a two-night stay, a complimentary bottle of Bramon Blanc de Blanc MCC on arrival, a R1 000 Sky Villa Food & Beverage voucher and a 60min Thai Oil Massage (courtesy of Royal Thai Plett). Valid from February to end June 2022. Subject to availability. Ts & Cs apply. Booking is essential. Contact: +27 87 550 2967, info@skyvilla.co.za, www.capesummervillas.co.za
Ideal for special occasions such as Valentine’s Day, anniversary celebrations and weddings, Sky Villa Boutique Hotel also hosts corporate events and conferences. Whatever the occasion, you can be certain that your experience at this luxury boutique hotel will be a memorable one. It’s a cut above the rest.
Disclosure: I was invited by Cape Summer Villas Boutique Collection (now Raw Africa Boutique Collection) to stay at the Sky Villa Boutique Hotel for review purposes. Views and images are my own unless stated otherwise. All Covid-19 safety and hygiene protocols were adhered to throughout our stay.
Thank you to the fabulous team at Sky Villa Boutique Hotel. Your incredible hospitality and professionalism ensured an unforgettable stay!
The Ford EcoSport Black was kindly sponsored by Ford South Africa >> www.ford.co.za
