With sheltered courtyards where homemade iced tea is served, secluded swimming pool, while being surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, Lairds Lodge Country Estate will leave you at the height of relaxation. Indoors, the front lounge with its comfortable couches, small library, complimentary internet access, wood burning fireplace, and satellite television provides an alternative backdrop to a cup of tea and the day’s decadent cake. The brandy lounge has cosy seating arrangements ideal for enjoying an aged after dinner brandy or whisky, along with a separate large screen television area for the sports enthusiast. Specialising in seafood and game dishes, the Lodge boasts one of the finest menus in the Garden Route; sociable 4-course gourmet dinners are served in the traditional reed ceilinged dining room, or can be taken in the rustic charm of the wine room. Every meal is carefully paired with selected wines from the Cape, ensuring a memorable South African dining experience, every time. Each of the elegant, high-ceilinged and individually decorated en suite rooms speaks of welcoming tranquility and easy living with cushioned comfort, air conditioned facilities, percale linen and specialised toiletries. Not only is the Lodge a Gourmet Retreat property but it is situated in one of the most picturesque regions of South Africa – the Garden Route. Laird’s are passionate about food and believe that the majority of humankind travel on their stomachs, our staff are encouraged to reveal the hidden gems of our area. On Thesen Island in Knysna you’ll find a 6th-generation baker and the best hangouts for fresh oysters; take a boat trip across the Knysna Lagoon to the Western Head while feasting on lunch and spectacular views; exploring Leisure Isle, Bollards Bay and Brenton on Sea is a must. In Plettenberg Bay your time will be well spent in the small Artisan coffee shops and at any one of the local markets; get up close and personal with whales and dolphins by boat; enjoy the famed Robberg Nature and Marine Reserve with its pristine beach, 200 metre sand dune and 300-strong seal colony; lunch in the vineyards at award winning wine estates; or sip on sundowners in one of the restaurants perched on the rocks or right on the beach while possibly watching the antics of the dolphins frequenting the bay. With endless stretches of pristine beaches immediately at hand, lazing on the beach could be the pastime of choice; but for those who wish to do a little exploring or adventuring the area’s multitude of activity and leisure options are readily accessible.