Plett Tourism welcomes Film Industry directors, producers and scouts in Plett as Part of a Garden Route tour
Wesgro and the Garden Route District Municipality coordinated a Garden Route Tour with Locations Africa and film industry representatives from the US cities of Atlanta (Georgia), New York (New York), Boston (Massachusetts) as well as Raus House, Moonlighting and SA Film Chronicles in South Africa. Plett Tourism conducted location inspections and facilitated meet and greet locations while on tour in the area.
What a super day spent showing the Film FAM Trip group the wonderful locations Plett has to offer for film. After a sumptuous breakfast at the Bayview Hotel the group was whisked off to get their adrenalin going at Bloukrans Bungy.
They braved the Skywalk with incredible views of the gorge below and had a blast on the bridge which always has the best atmosphere. One of the staff took a running leap off the bridge with music pumping in the background. The group were vibed up and ready for the next location. The scenic drive from the bridge to Kurland is so scenic and really showcases our beautiful area.
Kurland Homestead and Villa was the next stop. The sun was out, and the location looked grander than ever. Peter from Kurland had a casual chat about the history of the property as we explored the vast estate which they found fascinating. It was difficult to get them moving to the next location as they were snapping away continuously at all the perfect areas this property offers for film.
A trip off track down to the magnificent historical Forest Hall proved an adventure as a snake peacefully meandered across the road in front of our vehicle. The charm of Forest Hall inspired the group and apart from the beautiful Manor House they just loved the energy and beauty of the natural forest surrounding Forest Hall especially the swamp pond created hundreds of years ago by elephants roaming the area. The group were very impressed by the complete privacy and huge amount of land space at both Kurland and Forest Hall, ideal for film locations.
It was time to have a glass of delicious wine at Kay and Monty Vineyards. What a feast of organic salads, local cheese, beetroot humas and other delights greeted our palates. For the first time that day cameras were ignored whilst the group tucked in so grateful for the tasty meal presented. We had a chance to relax briefly and sing happy birthday to Azaniai from Locations Africa who was hosting the group. One of the group was super excited to see a troop of baboons with babies which she had never seen other than in a zoo. We could have sat there all afternoon and chilled with the beautiful views of the vineyards and mountains however time was running away from us.
As we headed for the Robberg Beach area I pointed some of our naturally beautiful spots and other locations including Keurbooms Beach, Keurbooms River, Stanley Island and other special spots. Red Box Villa was our next stop. The villas is so unique, a special design of concrete and comfort which the group loved, especially the open spaces and Vlei views.
Beachy Head Bliss which is right on Robberg Beach was our last location late in the afternoon and the views and absolute luxury of the villa with its courtyard area, cinema, Jacuzzi on the front deck, Joga roof deck to name just a few features captured the groups imagination for amazing film moments. Again, nature blessed us with the dolphins slowly swimming past which was super special.
We took a drive to Robberg beach where the group got to get onto the beach and take some lovely pics and last stop was the Whale Tail Lookout Viewpoint with its magnificent views of the bay.
The evening at Barrington’s which is always sublime for dinner was the perfect end to the day, especially cake and cones to celebrate Azania’s birthday in style.
The group was amazing, very knowledgeable in their field of expertise, passionate about the industry and in awe of everything they saw and experienced. I was so grateful for their enthusiasm, wonder and excitement which gave me a renewed appreciation of Plett which I call home and motivation to keep working with the film community as Plett really is the ideal film destination.
The Plett Tourism Association engages with national and international film stakeholders to assist with a seamless film application process, working with the established teams at the Bitou Municipality, the Garden Route Film Commission and other key organisations. For more information about film permits and filming issues in Plett, please contact Cindy Wilson-Trollip on +27 (0)44 533 4065.
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