Tsala Treetop Lodge is a unique lodge along South Africa’s Garden Route near Plettenberg Bay, offering a harmonious blend of luxury and tranquillity within a lush indigenous forest. Nestled high in the forest canopy, the lodge’s private villas provide guests with seclusion, wonderful views, and distinctive architectural design that complements the natural surroundings. With attentive service and great cuisine, Tsala Treetop Lodge promises an unforgettable experience amidst the wild beauty of South Africa’s landscapes.

Location & Lodge

Tsala Treetop Lodge is located along the renowned Garden Route, surrounded by dense forests. Just 10 kilometres from Plettenberg Bay, the lodge offers a secluded retreat while remaining close enough to enjoy the town’s beaches and vibrant culture. The Garden Route, celebrated for its breathtaking coastlines, rolling hills, and rich biodiversity, invites guests to explore South Africa’s stunning landscapes. Tsala’s location offers the ideal blend of seclusion and accessibility, allowing guests to retreat into nature while keeping Plettenberg Bay’s attractions within easy reach.

As part of the prestigious Hunter Hotels collection, this five-star sanctuary combines African aesthetics with modern comforts. The lodge is deeply embedded in the forest, surrounded by its mystical scents, sounds, and the beauty of native plants, trees, and herbs. Dark, sturdy wood and natural stone contrast with the green forest surroundings, while ambient lighting creates a magical atmosphere at night.

The lodge is located within the beautiful, sprawling Hunter Estate, which also hosts Zinzi Restaurant and Hunter’s Country House. A walk through the premises, with its gardens, lakes, and forests, is a delightful way to begin your stay.

The architecture of Tsala Treetop Lodge draws inspiration from the natural beauty of its surroundings and African heritage. Elevated walkways connect the villas, allowing guests to feel fully immersed in the indigenous forest canopy. Earth-toned decor, rich woodwork, and intricate stone mosaics create a rustic yet elegant atmosphere that harmonizes perfectly with the lush landscape.

Suites/Villas

Tsala Treetop Lodge offers two exclusive types of accommodation, each designed for privacy and relaxation:

• Treetop Suites: Each of the ten 85 m² Treetop Suites (they are called suites but are actually standalone villas) is suspended among the trees, offering breath-taking views and complete privacy. These suites include a spacious bedroom with a fireplace, a cosy living room, and a private deck with an infinity pool overlooking the forest.
  

  

  

  African-inspired design elements, such as textured fabrics and hand-carved details, add warmth and character, creating an inviting sanctuary high in the treetops. Each suite also features a flat-screen satellite TV, a minibar, and a luxurious bathroom with an oval bathtub, shower, and complimentary toiletries.

  

  

  

  
• Treetop Villas: Ideal for families or groups, each of the six spacious 120 m² two-bedroom villas offers luxurious amenities and plenty of space. These villas include a fully equipped kitchen, a dining area, and a large terrace with a private plunge pool—perfect for enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding forest. Elevated above the treetops, the villas feature a cosy dining and living area with a fireplace, a flat-screen satellite TV, and a minibar. The expansive bathroom includes both indoor and outdoor showers, an oval bathtub, and complimentary toiletries.

Both accommodation types showcase a rustic, African inspired design featuring natural wood, solid stone, and a warm colour palette of dark browns and beiges, complemented by soft cotton fabrics. This combination creates an inviting atmosphere that harmonizes with the surrounding nature and embodies the essence of South African style.

Gastronomy

Dining at Tsala Treetop Lodge is a journey through fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and sophisticated African flavours. The lodge offers four unique dining options, each with its own character and catering to a variety of tastes.

• Zinzi: Zinzi restaurant offers an elegant setting for an African-inspired culinary experience. Set within lush natural surroundings on the Hunter estate, this atmospheric restaurant combines intimacy with a touch of luxury, appealing to guests interested in authentic African flavours. The design draws on African and Asian influences, with natural materials and architecture blending into the environment. Global tribal decor, including detailed carvings and metalwork from India alongside colourful Suzani tribal textiles, adds character to the setting and creates a warm ambiance. The chefs at Zinzi bring varied culinary backgrounds, each contributing their own creativity to the menu. Using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, they present South African flavours in new interpretations. Highlights include the Sichuan pork belly, braised and glazed, served with roasted pumpkin, five-spice toasted pumpkin seeds, and a kumquat-pumpkin mochi filled with red beans. For dessert, “An Inspired Canvas” combines coconut and cardamom semifreddo, lime cake, lavender compote, rose geranium gel, and mango-jasmine coulis, offering a balanced end to the meal.
  

  

  

  

  

• Tsala Restaurant: Tsala Restaurant is the main restaurant of Tsala Treetop Lodge and offers a cosy, intimate setting for both breakfast and dinner.
  

  

  

  Mornings begin with a hearty selection of fresh options to energise guests for the day, while the evening atmosphere takes on a romantic feel, blending South African flavours with subtle international influences. With forest views, warm rustic decor, an open fireplace, and natural materials, Tsala Restaurant reflects the lodge’s enchanting ambiance. Dishes include the Rooibos Smoked Duck Breast starter, infused with Rooibos and accompanied by sun-dried tomatoes, marinated shallots, beetroot, and an almond dressing. For a main course, the Walnut-Crusted Double Rack of Lamb is served with bordelaise potato, baby marrow, cauliflower purée, and a mint demi-glace. For dessert, the Amarula Crème Brûlée is a popular choice. Both the wine lists at Tsala and Zinzi feature a diverse selection of South African wines, presenting opportunities for intriguing discoveries. From the cooler coastal Sauvignon Blancs to the rich Shiraz grown on the slopes of Stellenbosch, there is something for everyone. Be sure to explore the wine cellar to gain insights into South Africa’s remarkable wine regions.

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

  

• Sage Restaurant at Hunter’s: Located nearby at Hunter’s Country House, Sage Restaurant provides a classic dining experience in a charming, country-style setting. Guests can enjoy dinner in an elegant, candle-lit dining room with an à la carte menu featuring South African-inspired classics made from fine local ingredients. The extensive wine list highlights some of the best Cape wines, with a focus on selections from small, private producers. 

• The Conservatory Restaurant at Hunter’s: Also at Hunter’s Country House, The Conservatory offers a bright, glass-enclosed setting for a generous breakfast buffet and freshly cooked breakfast options. Lunch is served here, too, on outdoor patios, beneath the trees, or by the pool, with a casual menu that includes a variety of light, seasonal dishes. Guests can also enjoy Hunter’s well-loved picnics anywhere on the beautiful estate grounds.

Hotel assets

Tsala Treetop Lodge offers a range of experiences that enhance its appeal as a retreat for both relaxation and adventure.

• Infinity Pools and Decks: Each suite and villa at Tsala features a private infinity pool and deck seamlessly integrated into the forest canopy. These pools are perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, and immersing yourself in the surrounding wooded landscape.
  
• Forest Trails: walking trails guide guests through the lodge’s wooded surroundings, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife and learn about the area’s rich biodiversity. These trails, some elevated or on wooden decks, are ideal for leisurely morning or evening strolls, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the tranquillity of Tsala’s natural environment.
• Spa & Wellness Treatments: The lodge offers in-room spa services, including massages and wellness treatments focused on relaxation and rejuvenation. Experienced therapists use natural, locally sourced ingredients to ensure that each treatment is both restorative and environmentally conscious. Guests can also take advantage of the Hunter’s Yoga and Pilates Studio, Hunter’s Gym and a big swimming pool at nearby Hunter’s Country House.
• Local Excursions: Tsala’s proximity to Plettenberg Bay provides guests with a variety of outdoor activities and excursions. You can explore pristine beaches, embark on whale-watching tours, visit Birds of Eden or Monkeyland, swim with seals, and enjoy hiking and zip-lining in Tsitsikamma National Park. The lodge’s concierge service can also arrange personalised experiences, such as sailing trips and horse riding safaris.
• Chapel in the Forest: For weddings and special celebrations, the intimate “Chapel in the Forest” offers a unique setting. You can exchange your vows surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a valley of native woodland. The chapel can accommodate up to 50 guests.

These amenities and experiences at Tsala Treetop Lodge provide guests with a balanced mix of relaxation, immersion in nature, and adventure, ensuring an enriching stay along South Africa’s Garden Route. The lodge also offers numerous options for events and business trips.

Why go?

Tsala Treetop Lodge offers a unique experience in the heart of South Africa’s Garden Route. With luxurious treetop accommodation and great cuisine, this lodge combines serenity, adventure, and sophistication. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a romantic retreat, or simply wanting an escape into nature, Tsala Treetop Lodge is a solid choice along South Africa’s Garden Route.

Rates start at € 1.000 per night for a double room in high season, and € 850 per night in low season.