The Plettenberg Park Hotel and Spa did not survive the Garden Route fires last week, Mantis Collections has confirmed.

The hotel was situated in a private nature reserve, on Robberg Road, Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape.

Note-worthy visitors who visited the hotel include Nelson Mandela and Richard Branson.

CEO of Mantis, Adrian Gardner said: "We are as devastated and shocked, as are all South Africans, at the loss of life and the destruction of one the most beautiful regions of our country. Our hearts are with the people of the Garden Route.”

"We are very grateful that Pezula Private Castles on Noetzie beach damage was limited only to the driveway roads and gate, and we thank the brave fire fighters and volunteers for their selfless efforts on behalf of others. We are thankful that our guests and team are safe. We will be focusing on the repairs and clean-up operation commencing immediately over the next couple of weeks."

Marketing Manager for the Mantis Collection, Sasha Ella, said that parts of the hotel had been burnt, however the damage is extensive and the hotel has closed.

Gardner added that the Group was still assessing the damage and that they will release an update as soon as further details are available.

All bookings have been taken care of accordingly.