Emily Moon River Lodge: A Dreamy Destination near Plettenberg Bay

Imagine a place where the river sings and the magic of Africa dances around you.

Emily Moon River Lodge is like stepping into another world. This cozy little hotel, tucked away near Plettenberg Bay, feels disconnected from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As you wander through its wetland valley, you can’t help but get lost in the beauty of the Bitou River snaking its way through the reeds. The views from the verandah, swimming pool, and guest rooms are simply breathtaking, and it feels like nature has wrapped its arms around you. Everywhere you look, there are fascinating African art pieces and unique artifacts collected by Mark and Christine Valentine during their travels through Africa and Asia. It’s like being in a museum of exploration, with carved wood doors and pillars that tell tales of distant lands.

Take a moment to breathe in the fragrant scent of fynbos and listen to the chorus of birds serenading you. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a majestic fish eagle gliding through the morning sky, adding a touch of pure enchantment to your stay.

Welcome to a place where stories come alive and nature thrives. Take a stroll through the enchanting gardens, following the meandering paths and discovering hidden treasures along the way. As you descend the steps towards the riverside, you’ll feel a sense of wonder and excitement.

Indulge in Delicious Delights at Emily’s Restaurant

At Emily’s Restaurant, we believe in embracing the simplicity of farm-fresh ingredients. We grow our own produce in our garden and work with local organic farmers to bring you the best flavors of the region. From succulent Karoo rack of lamb to flavorful butter chicken samosas, each dish at Emily’s is carefully crafted and beautifully presented. And don’t miss our mouthwatering Bali bowl, packed with taste and texture.

Opening times Monday – Sunday, 6pm – 9pm (booking essential)

Unwind at Simon’s Bar

Upstairs, you’ll find Simon’s Bar, which offers breathtaking sunset views. The bar is adorned with a unique collection of vintage boat engines, water sports equipment, and other intriguing items. Once the evening rolls around, the wood-fired pizza oven kicks into gear, serving up a variety of mouthwatering pizzas. Locals also like to visit for refreshing sundowners, with the bartender whipping up delicious cocktails.

Opening Times

Tuesday – Saturday: 5pm – 9.30pm (12pm opening during high season, no reservations)

Accommodation

The luxurious suites are discreetly nestled into the hillside, providing breathtaking views of the enchanting river valley. With the exception of two garden suites, each boasting a remarkable private treehouse viewing deck, all suites are wonderfully spacious and feature a lounge area that opens onto a private outdoor deck. Each suite is individually decorated with a warm and inviting charm that epitomizes the lodge’s overall atmosphere.

Welcome to our luxurious lodgings!

I wanted to let you in on a little secret. We have an assortment of inviting suites that are sure to make your stay absolutely unforgettable. We offer a variety of options, including 6 deluxe luxury suites, 8 luxury suites, and 2 family suites. Each suite has its very own private deck that overlooks the picturesque Bitou River. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the stunning views and simply unwind.

Our suites are designed with your comfort in mind. They come equipped with ensuite bathrooms featuring a relaxing bath and shower. The living areas are spacious and cozy, so you can kick back and truly make yourself at home. Oh, and did I mention the fireplace? It adds that extra touch of warmth and charm.

We also understand the importance of modern amenities. That’s why each suite comes with air-conditioning to keep you cool in the summer months, a convenient minibar for all your refreshment needs, and satellite TV for your entertainment pleasure. And guess what? We even have complimentary Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected during your stay.

But wait, there’s more! When you stay with us, you’ll have access to our communal swimming pool, complete with comfortable deck chairs. It’s the perfect place to take a dip, catch some rays, and soak up that beautiful South African sunshine.

Now, you may be wondering if our lodgings are child-friendly. The answer is a resounding “Yes!” We welcome children with open arms and strive to make their stay just as enjoyable as yours. However, I do have to mention that we are unable to accommodate pets at this time. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.

So, how much will this incredible experience set you back? Our rates start from R6 776 per night for two people, including a delicious breakfast to start your day off right. Trust me, it’s worth every penny.

The only thing left to do now is make a reservation. Don’t wait too long, though, as our suites are in high demand. You don’t want to miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Now, onto the fun stuff!

When you stay at this hotel, there are plenty of fun activities for you to enjoy. You can hop on one of our canoes and leisurely float along the Bitou River, where you can spot various types of birds or try your hand at fishing. If you prefer a more relaxed afternoon, you can simply lounge by the pool, soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a hike or grab one of our mountain bikes and explore the beautiful trails that surround the area. In the winter months, you can even go whale-watching for a thrilling experience. For those who enjoy golfing, we have a fantastic course nearby where you can perfect your swing. And if you’re a wine lover, you’ll be delighted to know that there are several boutique estates in the vicinity where you can indulge in some wine-tasting.

If shopping is more your style, the Old Nick Shopping Village is just a short distance away and offers a wide variety of shops and boutiques to explore. And of course, we can’t forget about the beaches – Plett’s beaches are some of the most stunning in the entire country, offering pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters.

And the best part? If you’re up for some more adventure, you can easily drive to Knysna or Nature’s Valley in just a short time. So whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or indulge in some exciting activities, our hotel has something for everyone.

Venue

Wild African romance is what you’ll find at Emily Moon, a versatile venue that’s perfect for all kinds of events. From small, intimate weddings to art exhibitions, conferences, and even theatrical productions, Emily Moon has seen it all. Whether you want to say “I do” on the beautiful River Deck or in the cozy James Room surrounded by a peaceful garden, Emily Moon has the perfect setting for your special day. And don’t forget to book Emily’s Restaurant for your reception – it’s sure to impress your guests.

But wait, there’s more! If you’re looking for a romantic getaway without all the stress of planning a big wedding, Emily Moon also offers elopements. You can still have all the romance, just without the hassle.

Now, let’s talk about how to get in touch. For events, you can reach out to events@emilymoon.co.za. And if you’re looking to book a stay or just want more information, you can contact them at 044 501 2500 or info@emilymoon.co.za. Emily Moon is located on Rietvlei Road in Plettenberg Bay, a truly magical place where you can drift off into an enchanted sunset.