Southern Cross is a gorgeous beachfront villa with magnificent views of Plettenberg Bay and the Tsitsikamma Mountains. Owner-run and managed, Southern Cross accommodates no more than ten guests in its five en-suite bedrooms, all of which offer direct access to the quieter end of Robberg Beach, one of the finest stretches of coastline in South Africa.
Owners Neill and Susie were inspired by the colonial-era Plantation houses they encountered in Mauritius when designing Southern Cross, as is apparent in their home's distinctive double balcony, which offers marvellous views onto the shimmering waters of Plettenberg Bay and the golden sands of Robberg Beach. The balcony leads from the rooms to a garden patio, where you can bask in the sun and breeze while soaking up the sound of the waves below. A private boardwalk provides direct access to the beach. As Southern Cross is positioned at the remoter end of the beach, you're likely to have it entirely to yourself much of the time.
The beach house itself is bright and airy, painted in pastel hues of white and blue, and with wide open windows to allow in the light and take advantage of the views (of the Bay on one side, the Tsitsikamma Mountains on the other). With a background in the hospitality industry, Neill and Sue are unimposing hosts and help create a relaxed mood, accentuated by Susie's keen decorative sense.
Accommodation
Southern Cross' five guest rooms are all situated on the ground floor of the villa. They share the same muted colour scheme and carefully-chosen decor, but differ slightly in size and features. All are en-suite, most with separate bathtub and shower but two with shower only. Floral prints and bright fabrics add a touch of colour to the rooms and contrast nicely with the dark wooden furnishings and brass fittings.
Unfortunately, it's not possible to see the ocean from the rooms, but all open directly onto the garden patio and viewing decks.
Dining
Wake to a hearty cooked breakfast accompanied by a light buffet of fresh-baked breads, pastries, cereals, fruit, cold meats and cheeses, served on the terrace overlooking the ocean or, when the weather's cooler, in the indoor dining room (also with sea views!)
Breakfast times are flexible at Southern Cross, allowing you to start the day at your own pace.
Lunch and dinner are not offered, but guests are free to use the kitchenette to prepare their own lunch.
For dining out, Plettenberg Bay is a short taxi ride away (walking isn't practical due to Southern Cross' position at the far end of the beach).
Facilities
Sun terrace
Breakfast room
Kitchenette (shared)
Off-street parking
Activities
Explore the Robberg Peninsula on foot or by vehicle
Hike the Otter Trail in Tsitsikamma
Seep-sea fishing
Diving
Whale watching (June to October)
Golf - several nearby courses
Horse riding
Biking tours
Child Policy
Southern Cross Beach House accepts children over the age of four.
