We’re thrilled to share that two of our properties have been recognised by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards 2025!
The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa was named one of the top 15 hotels in Southern & Eastern Africa. This boutique coastal hotel in Plettenberg Bay is steeped in heritage and beloved for its blend of relaxed luxury and timeless charm. With a history dating back to 1777, The Old Rectory pairs a sense of place with modern comforts: 18 exquisite luxury suites, a tranquil spa, an inviting restaurant celebrated for fresh, seasonal flavours, and a setting just steps from the beach.
The Outpost was named one of the top 15 resorts in South Africa. Perched in the northernmost reaches of Kruger National Park, within the remarkable Makuleke private concession, The Outpost and Pel’s Post offer a safari experience unlike any other. Here, guests are immersed in unfiltered wilderness, where dramatic landscapes meet clear night skies, and every stay is an invitation to slow down, reconnect, and experience one of the most special corners of Africa.
For us, these acknowledgements carry a special weight. We are a small, family-owned collection of retreats and to be celebrated on a global stage alongside some of the most iconic names in travel is both humbling and uplifting for our close-knit team.
What makes these awards even more meaningful is that they are voted for by travellers themselves. They reflect the memories made, the connections formed, and the experiences our guests take home with them. That is only possible because of the incredible teams on the ground: from the chefs to the guides, the therapists to the housekeepers, and everyone in between; members of our Rare Earth family who pour care, passion, and hospitality into each and every stay.
To our guests, past and present: thank you for taking the time to vote and for being part of our journey. And to our teams: this recognition belongs to you.
We look forward to welcoming more travellers to discover the beauty of South Africa with us, from the coastal charm of Plettenberg Bay to the wild wonder of northern Kruger.