Go for the Garden Route

If diverse natural beauty is what you’re after, a road trip along South Africa’s Garden Route is sure to tick all of the boxes.

This 300 km route extends from Mossel Bay in the west through to Storms River in the east and takes road-trippers along stretches of breathtaking coastline with plenty of other memorable sights. Expect shimmering lakes and lagoons, national parks, evergreen forests and mountain slopes.

The Garden Route is a year-round destination with many unique surprises for travellers regardless of the season. Entertainment opportunities are endless, ensuring the whole family will be kept occupied for days on end. Enjoy whale watching, scuba diving, shark cage diving and other exciting adventures such as taking an exhilarating canopy tour through Tsitsikamma Forest.

Many people embark on a trip along the Garden Route keen to explore its many charming seaside towns. Explore George, home to the impressive Outeniqua Transport (railway) museum and world-famous golf courses. Visit Knysna, which is situated in the heart of the Garden Route and celebrated for its annual oyster festival. Wilderness, best-known for its laid-back atmosphere, picturesque estuaries, and forests filled with colourful birds. And finally Plettenberg Bay, a chic, upscale resort town overlooking the impressive Robberg Nature Reserve.

Activities & Local Attractions

Tsitsikamma National Park

Nestled between the ocean and the mountains, Tsitsikamma Forest is a sprawling natural marvel. Its name comes from the Khoi word that translates to the “place of abundant or sparkling water” and it promises an array of exciting activities for the adventurous at heart. Think long hikes to get a glimpse of the infamous ‘Big Tree’ – a towering yellowwood that is well over 800 years old – mountain biking and Segway tours. However, if you’re keen to get a new perspective on the forest, there’s no better way to do so than with a canopy tour 30 metres above ground! While exploring the park take the trail down to the Storms River suspension bridge and enjoy the breathtaking views along the way.

Bungee at Bloukrans

Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush as you jump from Africa’s highest commercial bridge and plunge into the cavernous gorge below. Located near Nature’s Valley, this Bloukrans Bridge bungee offers you a jump of 216 metres above sea level making it the world’s highest bridge Bungee jump which will most definitely satisfy all thrill seekers out there.

Monkeyland and Birds of Eden

Take a drive toward Plettenberg Bay and you will come across some unique animal sanctuaries along the way. Birds of Eden bears the world’s largest two hectare dome spanning over a gorge of indigenous forest that currently hosts 3,500 birds from over 220 species. Visit Monkeyland, the world’s first free-roaming multi-species primate sanctuary where you’ll be able to see over 550 primates of various species.

A leisurely boat trip to Knysna Heads

The natural wonder of the Knysna Heads is one of the most notable attractions in Knysna. The best way to set your sights on this legendary coupling of sandstone cliffs separating the Knysna Lagoon from the ocean is via ferry or boat. Most boat tours last around an hour and include a delicious meal or snacks on-board, made all the more memorable with this magnificent spectacle as your backdrop.

Visit the Robberg Nature Reserve

The Robberg Nature Reserve in Plettenberg Bay is both a World Heritage Site and a National Monument and, of course, another hiking hotspot. It offers a choice of three circular routes varying in length and difficulty. Along with lots of fynbos and marine life, visitors can also expect to see a multitude of Stone Age artefacts and prehistoric rock formations, some of which date back over 120-million years.

Oysters R Us

You can’t visit the Garden Route without indulging in oysters! Oysters R Us is located on a farm between Wilderness and Sedgefield. Here, you can buy ocean-fresh oysters to eat at the restaurant itself, served with a variety of mouth-watering accompaniments, or to take away and enjoy later. The restaurant is home to a lovely little deli where guests can choose from an assortment of ingredients to complete their meal, such as breads, cheeses, crackers, spreads, and preserves.

East Head Café

The perfect stop for those planning on taking a boat ride out to observe the Knysna Heads. In fact, the café is built on the rocks of the Eastern Head with a view that looks directly through the famous sandstone cliffs. It is ideal for families and boasts a lovely play area, as well as a café-style menu with light, seafood meals, such as deep-fried calamari and classic fish and chips, and many other favourites.

Bramon Wine Estate

Tucked away in a mountainous area called The Crags just a short 20km East of Plettenberg Bay lies this hidden gem. Savour views of the surrounding vineyards and the Tsitsikamma Mountains as you tuck into fresh, family-friendly tapas-styled dishes paired with the estate’s finest award-winning wines.

Where to stay

Oaklands on the Knoll

Located in walking distance from the centre of Knysna where you will be in close proximity to everything that you need while you’re in the area. Oaklands on the Knoll is a luxurious accommodation option for an overnight (or two, or three) in Knysna. The self-catering secure complex is surrounded by shady oak trees and boasts pristine gardens overlooking the glistening Knysna Lagoon. Spend your days exploring the local attractions or simply soak up the sun and sea at nearby Buffels Bay, Brenton-On-Sea or Plettenberg Bay.

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Hartenbos Lagoon Resort

About 7km up the coast from the charming harbour town of Mossel Bay lies the Hartenbos Lagoon Resort. This family orientated, resort offers fully-equipped self-catering apartments in various sizes. All apartments have spectacular views of the lagoon and sea from the balconies. Kayaks and bicycles are available at the resort for the more energetic and after a long day exploring in the sun you can head down to the communal braai area where there is a playground for the kids.

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