Reflections on our first December at Howberry Hills Guest Lodge

Opening a guest lodge in a beautiful place like Plettenberg Bay is a dream for many. Our first December running the lodge was a month full of lessons, emotions and unforgettable moments. It tested our limits, brought joy, and showed us the true potential of this special place for our family and guests alike.

December is a busy month for hospitality, especially in a popular destination like Plettenberg Bay. We quickly realised that running a guest lodge requires more than just a welcoming smile. From managing bookings to ensuring every room was perfect, each day brought new challenges.

• Guest expectations: many visitors arrive with high hopes for a relaxing holiday, so we paid attention to the small details — fresh linen, local recommendations and timely service.
• Staff coordination: our team had to adapt to the holiday rush, and scheduling shifts while keeping morale high was crucial.
• Unexpected situations: power outages, last-minute cancellations and special requests tested our problem solving.

These experiences taught us to stay flexible and proactive. We learned to anticipate needs before they arose, which made the difference between a good stay and a great one.

Moments that touched our hearts

Running the lodge is not just about logistics — it is about people, and Daniella does this incredibly well. Her casual, reassuring approach and warm smile are invaluable to the start of every guest's stay, whether she is helping people settle in, recommending restaurants and activities, or booking cabs.

We met guests from all over the world, each with their own stories and reasons for visiting Plettenberg Bay. Some came to celebrate milestones, others to find peace by the sea. Almost all of them commented on how peaceful it is here, and how welcome that moment of quiet is during a busy travel schedule. Families with children often mention how the farm and open space helped them slow down and reconnect with nature and each other.

At times the pressure was near overwhelming, and there were a few tears fuelled mostly by exhaustion. But those feelings were balanced by the joy of seeing happy guests enjoying our place and the beauty that surrounds it.

The potential of our place

December showed us the true potential of the lodge. We saw how much guests appreciated the blend of comfort and natural beauty, and it took us back to our own family holidays here and why we fell in love with Howberry and Plett in the first place.

Our family feels deeply connected to this place. It is more than a business; it is a shared dream. We plan to build on what we learned:

• Adding guided tours to local attractions
• Hosting small events and workshops
• Enhancing the dining experience with local cuisine

Looking ahead

Our first December was a month to remember. It tested our bodies and hearts but also filled us with hope and excitement. For anyone thinking about starting a similar journey, remember that challenges are part of the process. Embrace the learning, connect with your guests, and never lose sight of why you began.

We look forward to many more Decembers in Plettenberg Bay — growing, improving and welcoming guests to share in the magic of this place.