A beautiful stretch of coastline, witnessing rolling breakers and dramatic skies, Wilderness is distinguishable by its long stretches of white sand, estuaries, and sheltered lagoons. The beaches, though excellent for scenic coastal strolls, have a powerful rip-tide, and swimming is not advised. But with Victoria Bay to the west and Wilderness National Park to the east, there is plenty of pristine natural habitat to be explored. Our recommendations will show you the best places to stay in Wilderness, from boutique to historic, in this rugged coastal town.

Unsurprisingly, all this has made Wilderness a favourite escape amongst Capetonian weekenders and tourists traversing The Garden Route. Fortunately, it retains a sense of quiet solitude. Holiday homes are not obtrusive in number, and there remains a delightful sense of community, with plenty of bijoux shops and cafés, where everyone seems to know each other - a testament to its thriving homely feel!

Whatever the season, our collection of the best places to stay in Wilderness showcase the finest hotels along this stretch of The Garden Route. But just remember to book well ahead, it's a popular spot!

The Best Places to stay in Wilderness

For a couples' stay

• Gorgeous interiors, private balconies all in a perfect setting; Dune Beach House is an idyllic stay for romantics.

For a boutique stay

• For a characterful stay, right on the beach, Dune Villa Wilderness provides a stylish stay, with clean and contemporary interiors, in a superb setting.
• Behind its apricot frontage, Cinnamon House combines period features with contemporary design. Throw in a delicious breakfast, included in the rate, and you've got yourself a great value boutique stay.

For a historic stay

• One of the first hotels to be built in this coastal holiday spot, Moontide Guest Lodge dates back to the 1920s and has charming period features, including an original thatched roof.

For a self-catering villa or apartment

• If a self-catering property is what you're looking for, check out the wide range with our online partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

• If you want to rent a car to explore the scenic Garden Route, visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• Alternatively, George Airport is a twenty-minute drive from Wilderness, with daily flights from Cape Town International Airport.
• April to September see the best weather in Wilderness, whilst November to February are the hottest and driest months. If you're not a fan of the rain, avoid travelling in March.

Still not sure?

• Widen the net to include our recommendations in nearby, Mossel Bay, George, Storms River, Plettenberg Bay, Knysna, and the whole of the Western Cape.
• Take a look at our top recommendations for The Garden Route.
• Or contact one of our gurus for advice.