Garden Route
Featherbed Nature Reserve, looking down onto the Knysna Heads © Garden Route
The Garden Route extends along the coastal strip between Heidelberg and the Eastern Cape border at Storms River Mouth, and incorporates all of the towns and resorts along the N2 highway and coast. To the North the Garden Route is bordered by three mountain ranges, the Langeberg, the Outeniqua and the Tsitsikamma mountains. The whole region is one of extreme natural beauty and many very popular resorts have become established along the route. Large parts of the Garden Route are controlled by the South African National Parks thus ensuring the preservation of this pristine area well into the future. Just east of George, lies the Wilderness National Park. This region attracts hundreds of bird species to it's wetlands.
In the extreme West of the Garden Route where the Breede River flows into the Indian Ocean is St Sebastion Bay, an annual breeding place for the Southern Right Whale, which can be seen between June and September from Whitesands. In 2005 more than 130 whales were seen in the nursery including more than 50 pairs of cows and their calfs.
The town of Riversdale lies on the N2 and has become known as the Floral Paradise of the Garden Route. The town is a mecca for nature lovers of all ages and especially for fynbos enthusiasts. From here you can hike, bike or take a horse trail. To the North of the town is the famous Sleeping Beauty Peak in the Langeberg, and a mountain pass leads you to the Klein Karoo. A little to the East of Riversdale is the small town of Albertinia named after a local preacher. The town is situated in a major sheep and wheat region and is well known as being South Africa's main producer of red and yellow ochre and of kaolin. There are two factories that process gel from the aloe based here.
Mossel Bay has a history dating back to the 15th Century and derives its name from the abundance of mussels found here. The town lies on a sunny peninsular just off the N2 and is half way between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. It was at Mossel Bay that the Portuguese navigator Bartomoleu Dias landed in 1488 to replenish his water supplies. History lovers can also see several block houses built by the British in the Outeniqua mountains during the Anglo-Boer War.
The Garden Route's next town is George which is harbours a wonderful museum which is mostly dedicated to wooden artifacts. There is a reconstructed woodcutter's cottage as well as wagons and carts and even old gramaphones. Herold's Bay is George's own beach resort and is just outside the town. Here there are good vantage points for whale and dolphin watching. A mountain pass leads from George into the Klein Karoo.
The Knysna National Lake Area, known as the Jewel of the Garden Route, there is a large lagoon bounded at its entrance by two sandstone heads and with a background of the mountains of the Outeniqua Nature Reserve. The lagoon is home to the famous Knysna Seahorse and the Pansy Shell. This beautiful town offers the visitor anything from fine shops and restaurants to hiking trails, and there are even three golf courses. The Knysna Elephant Park offers a unique chance to get see these magnificent animals that once lived in these forests.
Just along the coast from Knysna lies the popular resort town of Plettenberg Bay, known affectionately by many a visitor as 'Plett'. Standing out on the beach here is Beacon Island with its hotel. In the bay itself you can witness schools of common dolphin playing, as well as Bottlenosed and Humpback dolphins.
Several species of whale can be seen here - the Southern Right, the Humpback and Bryde's whales as well as Orca, the killer whale. This is the only place on Earth where the rare Beaked whale has been filmed. Boat based whale watching tours are available here. To the south of Plettenberg Bay lies the Robberg Nature Reserve, which has many short hikes through the coastal fynbos that dominates this peninsula.
At the Eastern end of the Garden Route you will find the Tsitsikamma National Park, a pristine indigenous forest that is home to Yellowwood, Stinkwood and Ironwood and many other tree species that are protected in this forest. The coastline here is quite spectacular with its natural gorges formed over millions of years. The 5 day Otter Trail that runs along this coast. Hikers are advised to book well in advance.
Exploring the Garden Route in South Africa's Western Cape offers an array of breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences.
Here are ten must-see attractions and activities along this iconic route:
1. Tsitsikamma National Park: Discover the dramatic coastal scenery, ancient forests, and diverse fauna of Tsitsikamma National Park. Hike the famous Otter Trail, brave the Storms River Mouth suspension bridge, or enjoy scenic drives and picnics.
2. Knysna: Visit the charming town of Knysna, renowned for its scenic lagoon, indigenous forests, and the Knysna Heads. Explore the waterfront, enjoy fresh seafood, and shop for local crafts at the bustling markets.
3. Plettenberg Bay: Relax on the pristine beaches of Plettenberg Bay, known for its azure waters and outdoor activities such as dolphin and whale watching, kayaking, and hiking in the Robberg Nature Reserve.
4. Oudtshoorn: Experience the ostrich capital of the world in Oudtshoorn. Tour ostrich farms, explore the underground wonders of the Cango Caves, and interact with wildlife at the Cango Wildlife Ranch.
5. Wilderness: Embrace the tranquility of Wilderness, a coastal town bordered by rivers, lakes, and indigenous forests. Kayak through the Touw River estuary, hike the Half-Collared Kingfisher Trail, or simply unwind on the secluded beaches.
6. Garden Route National Park: Explore the diverse ecosystems of the Garden Route National Park, encompassing wilderness areas, forests, lakes, and coastline. Discover the scenic viewpoints of the Wilderness and Knysna sections of the park.
7. Nature's Valley: Visit the idyllic village of Nature's Valley, nestled between mountains and the sea within the Tsitsikamma section of the Garden Route National Park. Enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and beachcombing in this unspoiled paradise.
8. Golfing: Tee off at world-class golf courses along the Garden Route, including Fancourt, Pezula, and Simola. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy challenging fairways set against breathtaking backdrops.
9. Wine Tasting: Indulge in wine tasting experiences in the picturesque vineyards of the Garden Route. Visit boutique wineries in the Outeniqua and Langkloof valleys, known for their cool-climate wines and scenic surroundings.
10. Adventurous Activities: Thrill-seekers can satisfy their adrenaline cravings with activities like bungee jumping from the Bloukrans Bridge, zip-lining through the forests of Tsitsikamma, or paragliding over the coastal cliffs of Wilderness.
Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxation amidst stunning natural landscapes, the Garden Route offers something for every traveler to enjoy in the Western Cape of South Africa.
- Mossel Bay Area
- Knysna
- Mossel Bay
- Plettenberg Bay Area
- Plettenberg Bay
- Wilderness, George
- George
- Hartenbos, Mossel Bay
- Sedgefield
- George Area
Dwarswegstrandoord
Holiday Resort Accommodation in Bothastrand, Groot Brakrivier
Garden Route
Dwarswegstrand Resort is a holiday resort along the Garden Route Coast line between Mossel Bay and George near Great Brak River (Groot Brak Rivier). Here you can relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the coastal resort with direct access to... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Hartenbos - 6 Bulhoek Ave
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hartenbos, Mossel Bay
Garden Route
Hartenbos - 6 Bulhoek Ave provides self catering accommodation in Hartenbos in the Garden Route, Western Cape. A spacious self catering house (sleeps 8) in the town of Hartenbos, is a quiet safe little town, close to Mossel Bay. A 750m stroll to beach. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Aliwal Suidstraat, Hartenbos
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hartenbos, Mossel Bay
Garden Route
Aliwal Suidstraat, Hartenbos provides self catering accommodation in Hartenbos, in the Western Cape's Garden Route. Our self catering accommodation is on a quiet side road and comprises of 4 bedrooms (2 double and 4 single beds) and 2 bathrooms. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Sinfonie
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Tergniet
Garden Route
Sinfonie consists of two separate self catering family holiday apartments each with its own entrance and garage. This self catering accommodation is located in Tergniet, a small village between Little Brak River and Great Brak River. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Wishbone Waters
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in The Crags
Garden Route
Wishbone Waters is located in the rural farming area of The Crags, 3km from the N2. Accommodation in the Little Wish self catering cottage will sleep 4 in 2 bedrooms. Local attractions within The Crags (5-7km) include: Birds of Eden, Tenikwa, Monkeyland …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Kiewietjie Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Sedgefield
Garden Route
Kiewietjie Cottage offers a selection of self catering accommodation in Sedgefield, Garden Route. Located in the beautiful seaside town of Sedgefield and offers guests three comfortable furnished self-catering units. The 2 bedroom units have a view on th …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Elephant Rest Forest Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Rheenendal
Garden Route
Elephant Rest is a private, self catering, tranquil getaway retreat experience. Situated on the edge of the awesome Lawnwood indigenous forest. Experience the peace and beauty of nature, abundant bird life, close to mountain biking, hikes, waterfalls... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ibis Place Guesthouse
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in George
Garden Route
Ibis Place Guesthouse provides bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation in George, Garden Route. Overlooking the Outeniqua Mountains, it is situated in the middle of the Garden Route only 10 minutes from the George CBD... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Alikreukel 39
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hartenbos, Mossel Bay
Garden Route
Alikreukel 39 offers self catering apartment accommodation in Hartenbos in the Garden Route, Western Cape. This luxury self catering apartment has two bedrooms; one with a luxurious queen size bed and the other with 2 single beds. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
African Sun Guest House
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in George
Garden Route
African Sun Guest House provides bed and breakfast accommodation and self catering accommodation in George, Garden Route. African Sun offers a relaxing atmosphere and a beautiful view of the Outeniqua mountains, it is a small holding where guests can... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Outeniqua on C
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Groot Brakrivier
Garden Route
Outeniqua On C offers self catering apartment accommodation in Glentana in the Great Brak River area near George, Garden Route. Our accommodation sleeps a maximum 2 adults and 2 children (under 12); minimum 2 guests. If you want a relaxed holiday in peace …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ananti @ Sea
Self Catering Accommodation in Vleesbaai
Garden Route
Ananti @ Sea is situated in the very picturesque Vleesbaai, only 30 minutes from Mossel Bay which offers an interesting visit for shopping, casino, deep sea fishing, restaurants, golf and museum enthusiasts. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Grace Guest House
Fresh-Water Fishing Accommodation in Groot Brakrivier
Garden Route
Grace Guest House is a beautifully restored self catering 1850 family farmstead set in serenity on a working farm with 360 degree views of the Outeniqua Mountains and Mossel Bay. The first suite caters for 6 people in two bedrooms... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Dancing Dolphins
Self Catering Accommodation in Vleesbaai
Garden Route
Dancing Dolphins offers self catering apartment accommodation in Vleesbaai in the Garden Route. Vleeisbaai is a seaside town a short drive south-west from Mossel Bay. This self catering flat (sleeps 4) is fully equipped and has two rooms - one with a doub …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Lions Cottage
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hartenbos, Mossel Bay
Garden Route
Lions Cottage is a self-catering flatlet situated in Hartenbos, Western Cape. The flatlet can sleep 4 people and offers 2 rooms as well as an en-suite bathroom; the first room has a single bunk bed with the kitchen and living area combined. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The White Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hartenbos, Mossel Bay
Garden Route
The White House offers beachfront self catering accommodation in Hartenbos in the Garden Route, Western Cape. This charming self-catering cottage is all about the view... a spectacular 180° unobstructed view of the ocean. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Happy Rest @ Rendezvous
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
Garden Route
Happy Rest @ Rendezvous is a stylish newly-renovated 2-bedroomed self-catering flat in Heiderand, Mossel Bay. Enjoy a cozy indoor barbecue in the dedicated braai area, or outdoors in a spacious patio with the gas braai for an alfresco dining experience. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Vennebos Cottages
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Knysna
Garden Route
Vennebos Cottages provides a selection of self catering cottages in a forest setting near Rheenendal, just 15kms from Knysna in the Western Cape's Garden Route. It is the ideal location for those wishing to wind down and get some peace and quiet. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Elfransa Beach Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Sedgefield
Garden Route
Elfranse Beach Cottage provides self catering accommodation in Sedgefield, Garden Route. Situated on the front row of Myoli Beach, 150m from the main swimming area and whale-watching platform. This 90 square meter two-bedroom Sedgefield cottage is... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Cabannas @ Dana
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Dana Bay
Garden Route
Cabannas @ Dana is a 15-sleeper consisting of 3 self catering units and 1 semi self catering unit in Dana Bay and conveniently situated near beaches and attractions. George airport is 45 kms away while the centre of Mossel Bay is less than a 10 min drive. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
