Nestled in the heart of the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay is perhaps better known among road users than aviators. Regular contributor Sebastian Schmitz travelled to South Africa’s Western Cape to learn more about the coastal town’s air transport options.
For many tourists visiting South Africa, a scenic drive along the beautiful Garden Route is all but a given. The 190-mile (306km) circuit following the country’s southeastern coast encompasses a fascinating variety of landscapes and vegetation plus some of the region’s best beaches. Plettenberg Bay is one of the larger towns on the Garden Route and is a hugely popular spot with domestic and international holidaymakers, many of whom have second properties in the area. Affectionately referred to as ‘Plett’ by the locals, this town of just over 30,000 people offers a wealth of activities ranging from wine tastings to wildlife experiences. During the peak holiday period – particularly around Christmas – the town is often booked out. Highlighting the seasonality of the destination, just a few weeks later it can feel relatively deserted.
The nearest main airport and one often used to reach Plett, is George (IATA code GRJ). This facility, approximately 5…