Old Timber Shed
A historical timber storage structure from 1786, this beautiful ruin offers a glimpse into Plettenberg Bay's past.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Old Timber Shed
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historical timber storage structure from 1786, this beautiful ruin offers a glimpse into Plettenberg Bay's past.
"Beautiful ruin. 2nd oldest building in plett."
📸 Capture the Age
Appreciate the rustic beauty and historical feel for great photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine with Plett's hikes for stunning coastal views. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historical Significance
The second oldest building in Plett, a testament to Dutch East India Company's timber trade.

Architectural Remnant
A beautiful ruin that evokes a sense of age and the area's past maritime importance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Plett's Coastal Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Age
Appreciate the rustic beauty and historical feel for great photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine with Plett's hikes for stunning coastal views. :hiking_boot:
🧐 Understand its Past
Learn about its role in timber trade for a richer visit. :books:
⚠️ Be Prepared
Some areas might need tidying; embrace the historic charm. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Age
Appreciate the rustic beauty and historical feel for great photos. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine with Plett's hikes for stunning coastal views. :hiking_boot:
🧐 Understand its Past
Learn about its role in timber trade for a richer visit. :books:
⚠️ Be Prepared
Some areas might need tidying; embrace the historic charm. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the Old Timber Shed for its historical significance and its status as the second oldest building in Plett, offering a sense of age and beauty. However, some note that it could benefit from tidying up, with mentions of decaying materials.
"It was nice, but it could use a bit of tidying up. There were huge piles of what looked like carpet tiles that had gotten wet and were rotting."
Bee Thomas
"In August 1786 the Dutch East India Company decreed erection of the Timber Shed for storage of timber prior to shipment by sea. Declared a national monument on 11th September, 1936"
Axel Will
"A sense of age, very long and beautiful"
Yan Bing
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Timber Shed is located near Plettenberg Bay, a popular stop along South Africa's Garden Route.
Access typically involves driving, as it's part of the scenic coastal region. Many visitors explore it as part of a road trip, with Plettenberg Bay itself being a key destination.Public transport options directly to the Old Timber Shed might be limited. It's best accessed by car, especially if you're exploring the wider Garden Route. Consider car rental for flexibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information on specific ticketing for the Old Timber Shed is scarce. As a historical site and ruin, it may be accessible without a formal ticket, but it's advisable to check local Plettenberg Bay tourism resources for any entry fees or access restrictions.
As a historical ruin, the Old Timber Shed likely has open access, but specific hours are not widely published. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better viewing.
There is no widely advertised admission fee for the Old Timber Shed, suggesting it might be freely accessible. However, it's always a good idea to confirm with local Plettenberg Bay tourism information.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Old Timber Shed is primarily an attraction for its historical significance and rustic beauty. Visitors can explore the structure, appreciate its age as the second oldest building in Plett, and imagine its past role in the timber trade.
Absolutely! The Old Timber Shed offers a unique, aged aesthetic perfect for photography. Its 'beautiful ruin' status provides a sense of history and character that many photographers seek.
Facilities at the Old Timber Shed are minimal, as it's a historical site. Visitors should expect a natural setting without amenities like restrooms or cafes. Plan accordingly.
The best way to experience the Old Timber Shed is to approach it with an appreciation for its history and rustic charm. Take your time to observe the structure and its surroundings, imagining its past.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most flattering light for photographing the Old Timber Shed, highlighting its textures and historical character.
Focus on capturing the details of the timber structure, the play of light and shadow, and the overall sense of age. The surrounding natural landscape also offers complementary backdrops.
Architectural, historical, and landscape photography all work well here. The shed's rustic nature also lends itself to moody or atmospheric shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers
🚗 Road Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
While the structure is described as a 'beautiful ruin' and the 'second oldest building in Plett', it's important to manage expectations regarding its current state. Reviews mention that it 'could use a bit of tidying up,' with some areas showing signs of decay due to moisture. This rustic charm, however, is precisely what draws many visitors, offering a sense of authenticity and age that a perfectly preserved building might lack. It’s a place to appreciate the passage of time and the enduring legacy of historical structures.
Visiting the Old Timber Shed is an experience that goes beyond mere sightseeing. It's an invitation to reflect on the historical context of the Garden Route and Plettenberg Bay's role in it. For those interested in South African history, colonial architecture, or simply seeking a site with a profound sense of place, the Old Timber Shed offers a compelling, albeit unpolished, glimpse into the past.
Exploring Plettenberg Bay and the Garden Route
Popular activities in the area include hiking along the coast with its 'never ending views', exploring national parks, and enjoying the pristine beaches. TikTok creators frequently highlight the beauty of Plettenberg Bay, showcasing its appeal for both locals and tourists. The Garden Route itself is celebrated as one of the most spectacular road trips in South Africa, offering a continuous panorama of natural wonders.
When planning your visit to the Old Timber Shed, consider extending your stay to fully immerse yourself in the Garden Route experience. Whether you're drawn to the historical echoes of the shed or the vibrant natural landscapes, Plettenberg Bay provides a rich tapestry of experiences. Many travelers find that the scenic drives and outdoor activities complement the historical exploration of sites like the Old Timber Shed perfectly.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit