AFRICAN ARRAY
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Date of Stay: March 2016 Room Types:
* All prices quoted were correct during our stay and may be subject to change |
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In my humble opinion, no traveller can say that they’ve seen a South African sunset until they’ve witnessed one from the lower deck at African Array Backpackers Lodge. Much like the crowd in the hostel itself, no two days are ever the same!
Overlooking the Piesang Valley, African Array Backpackers and Lodge is a nature lovers paradise, just outside the action-packed town of Plettenberg Bay. Plettenberg Bay (or just ‘Plett’ to the locals) is renowned for its crystal clear, white sand beaches, stunning coastal hikes and enough adventure sports for even the most addicted adrenalin junkies!
Overlooking the Piesang Valley, African Array Backpackers and Lodge is a nature lovers paradise, just outside the action-packed town of Plettenberg Bay. Plettenberg Bay (or just ‘Plett’ to the locals) is renowned for its crystal clear, white sand beaches, stunning coastal hikes and enough adventure sports for even the most addicted adrenalin junkies!
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African Array sits majestically atop a breathtaking four-acre property, which drops dramatically away to the river and dam below. And in case I haven’t said enough already, the views from the multiple outdoor decks and Braai areas on this property are some of the best I’ve ever seen at any hostel!
African Array consists of two buildings - the main lodge and the more rustic backpackers cottage. Both houses have a variety of rooms including dormitories, double rooms and family rooms, most with a choice of ensuite or shared bathroom. The spacious rooms are all fitted with high quality furnishings and the bathrooms have good pressure, hot showers. The second floor rooms in the main lodge have private balconies offering uninterrupted views of the stunning scenery and a nice place to relax for those wanting a bit of privacy. |
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Camping is also available and land is currently being cleared to extend the existing camping space to cater to bigger groups in the near future and trust us, nature lovers will adore the natural surroundings and tranquility of the prime land this fantastic hostel commands.
There are two fully equipped kitchens available for guests to use as well as multiple braai areas and fire pits outside. The staff are pros at lighting the fires around sunset every night, adding even more atmosphere and charm to the hostel.... right when we began to think that wasn't possible!
Now I love nothing more than cooking a good braai however owners and “Head Chefs” Matthew and Vicky have put together the best menu I've ever seen in a hostel of this size. The meals coming out of this kitchen are fresh, tasty and unique and guaranteed to tease and tantalize your taste buds every minute of your stay, making you wish there were more meals in a day! From their wholesome, nutritious breakfasts to juicy local steaks and South African dinner specialties, you’ll be dreaming of your next meal before you even finish your first.
There are two fully equipped kitchens available for guests to use as well as multiple braai areas and fire pits outside. The staff are pros at lighting the fires around sunset every night, adding even more atmosphere and charm to the hostel.... right when we began to think that wasn't possible!
Now I love nothing more than cooking a good braai however owners and “Head Chefs” Matthew and Vicky have put together the best menu I've ever seen in a hostel of this size. The meals coming out of this kitchen are fresh, tasty and unique and guaranteed to tease and tantalize your taste buds every minute of your stay, making you wish there were more meals in a day! From their wholesome, nutritious breakfasts to juicy local steaks and South African dinner specialties, you’ll be dreaming of your next meal before you even finish your first.
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At African Array, almost every meal, drink and conversation takes place in any one of the stunning outdoor areas. Whether you prefer the view from the private seat amongst the gardens or the warmth and ambiance of the comfy cushions around the fire pit, African Array takes full advantage of its beautiful location and surroundings. Inside the main lodge, guests can enjoy a game of cards or a meal at the dining table, watch a movie or sports match in the living room or just sit by the fire and relax with a glass of wine and good company. The free Wi-Fi works well throughout both the main lodge and the backpackers cottage and was both fast and reliable during our stay. The friendly volunteer staff are always about to show you around the property, organize tours or activities and by sunset, they’ll be pouring drinks from the in-house bar while you sit back and enjoy the last glow of the day on the distant hills. Speaking of the bar, a wide variety of drinks are available for very tidy prices at this social hub of the hostel. |
The hostels location just outside of town makes it perfect for self-drivers however the hostel also offers the services of the Baz Bus for independent travellers. At African Array, the stunning natural beauty of the property will be the first thing you'll notice but the friendly people you meet and the awesome memories you'll make will be what lingers with you long after your stay is over.
By the end of your visit, something deep down inside, will be begging you to extend for “just one more night”. Whether it’s the location, the friendly crowd this chilled place attracts or the awesome rooms and facilities of the hostel, African Array is sure to appeal to every guest who steps through the front door.
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