Historic Garden Route landmark tastefully transformed

SILVER LINING. Winter clouds gather above the Touw River lagoon, where changing weather adds drama to an already spectacular landscape. Pictures: Supplied/iStock Few hotels on the Garden Route occupy as important a place in South African tourism history as the former Wilderness Hotel.

For generations it has welcomed holidaymakers drawn to the meeting point of the Touw River and the Indian Ocean. Now, under the stewardship of ANEW Hotels & Resorts, the landmark property has undergone its most significant transformation in years, emerging as ANEW Resort Wilderness Garden Route without losing the character that made it an institution. Having visited the property regularly over many years, albeit never as an overnight guest, I was curious to see whether the refurbishment would honour its heritage or simply modernise it.

The answer became apparent within minutes of arrival. The exterior has been freshly painted, but the more meaningful changes begin inside. The once-dark and rather dated reception foyer has been transformed with lighter finishes, cleaner lines and a far more contemporary feel.

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Recently graded as a four-star property, the welcome nevertheless feels notably more generous, with chilled towels, sparkling wine and attentive staff setting an immediate tone of relaxed hospitality. The most impressive changes are found on the first floor, where the hotel’s principal public spaces were thoughtfully reimagined. A striking contemporary light installation now draws the eye above the staircase, while the spacious lounge successfully balances old and new. Deep leather sofas and high-backed armchairs from the previous incarnation have wisely been retained, preserving the warmth and familiarity long associated with the property.

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