The Best of South Africa’s Garden Route
The Garden Route is undoubtedly one of the gems of South Africa, and is justifiably popular both with visitors from overseas and local travelers. A little wilder in places than its name might suggest, this 300km (190 miles) long stretch of coastline in the Western and Eastern Capes really does offer something for everyone.
If you grew up in South Africa, you may well have spent school holidays on the beaches or on the water at Knysna or Plettenberg Bay, two of the most beloved of the country’s seaside destinations. If you’re discovering South Africa for the first time, then the Garden Route makes a natural – and very worthwhile – extension to time spent in Cape Town, which lies to the West. Here’s our guide to the best of the Garden Route.
Beaches
It’s hard to beat Plettenberg Bay – this resort town is home to some of South Africa’s most inviting stretches of sand. It’s a great place to simply relax, and to meet South Africans enjoying the ocean. Of course, there’s more to “Plett” than just sand – the list of ocean activities is almost endless, and the town boasts some of the best seafood restaurants to be found anywhere (just be sure to make a reservation). Just outside the town, the Robberg Nature Reserve offers excellent hiking and a welcome serenity.
If you want to get away from it all but still enjoy a perfect beach, the secluded village of Nature’s Valley offers a complete contrast to the hustle and bustle of its larger neighbor. Another hidden gem is Wilderness, near George – as well as a stunning beach, this small coastal town boasts the “Map of Africa” viewpoint with superb vistas of the ocean and mountains.
At home on the ocean waves
If you enjoy sailing or fishing, the lagoon at Knysna is a great place to start, and trips through the scenic “Heads” (the towering cliffs that form the entrance to the lagoon) offer the opportunity to encounter whales, dolphins and other marine wildlife.
Go a little wild
The Garden Route has been designated as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve thanks to its pristine ecosystems, stunning scenery and unique fynbos vegetation. Protected areas such as the Tsitsikamma National Park offer dramatic coastal landscapes, and hikes through forests and along the rocks by the shore.
Two of South Africa’s most iconic adventures can be found in this area: the legendary Otter Trail between Storms River and Nature’s Valley, and the awe-inspiring Bloukrans Bridge bungee jump, which is one of the highest in the world.
Head inland…
While many of the attractions of the Garden Route are on the coast itself, short excursions away from the waves can reveal more of the best of this region. The farming town of Oudtshoorn makes for a fascinating trip as it is South Africa’s ostrich breeding capital, while guided game drives in Addo Elephant National Park offer authentic safari moments and wonderful photographic moments.
Eat well, sleep well
From luxury safari lodges to chic boutique beach hotels, the Garden Route really delivers when it comes to stylish and comfortable places to stay. Then of course, there’s the food – wherever you choose to dine (whether it’s in a gourmet restaurant or a harborside fish and chips shack) you’ll enjoy the fresh flavors of the ocean – plus world-class wines from the Cape Winelands.
To explore the very best of South Africa’s Garden Route, reach out to Journey Beyond today.