Plett and Knysna: Festive season boost

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - As Plett's Summer Festival draws to a close, Plett Tourism is celebrating what appears to be one of the busiest tourism periods since the pandemic.

"In fact, we are still busy and are not quite finished with the season. This summer has been an undeniable success for the local economy and community," Plett Tourism said on Tuesday 7 January.

'Large crowds'

"Local hospitality businesses are reporting increased activity, and in particular events and festivals hosted over season also drew large crowds, contributing to the town's reputation as a must-visit summer destination."

'Fantastic boost'

Patty Butterworth, the CEO of Plett Tourism, said: "The positive surge in visitors this summer has been a fantastic boost for our town.

"Tourism plays a vital role in supporting our local economy - creating jobs and fostering a strong sense of community pride.

"We are thrilled to see so many guests enjoying everything Plett has to offer. We are excited and are looking forward to enhancing the quality of Plett experiences, stimulating sustainable economic development and supporting eco-friendly managed growth going forward."

'Plett's truly come alive'

Plett Tourism said "from bustling restaurants and packed beaches to vibrant nightlife and thriving adventure activities, Plettenberg Bay has truly come alive".

"The atmosphere has been electric, and we're thrilled to see such strong support for our local tourism industry."

Factors contributing to the bumper season are believed to include excellent weather conditions, the quality and variety of events, places and activities for visitors to enjoy such as Plett's six international Blue Flag beaches, the South African polo season, Get Lucky Summer concert series, Sabrina Love Summer Challenge, Robberg Nature Reserve and many others.

Knysna peak season

Occupancy rates at the approximately 60 establishments - made up of hotels, self-catering concerns and B&Bs - affiliated to the Knysna Accommodation Association exceeded 80% between 22 December and 6 January, the association estimated.

Colleen Harding, the marketing coordinator of the association, said visitors began returning home this past weekend as the peak season ended.

The SA Hobie 16 Nationals in Plett drew many spectators.

'Region's beauty enjoyed'

"All visitors without exception enjoyed the beauty of the Knysna region, taking the beach and forest into consideration. In most instances guests did one boating activity whilst here," she said.

Participating in the Sabrina Love Summer Challenge surfski race.

Foreign visitors

The percentage of bookings by foreign visitors varied across establishments. "South Africans tend to go for self-catering and AirB&B options whereas guesthouses and bed and breakfasts have a mix. For example we (her establishment) had 80% international travellers and only 20% locals."

Foreign visitors were from the UK, Germany, Austria and Switzerland, among other countries.

They, and South African visitors, particularly enjoyed spending time at Buffalo Bay Beach, Jubilee Creek, the Featherbed Nature Reserve, and going on boat trips.

Sunset at the Blue Flag Robberg 5 Beach. Photos: Plett Tourism