South Africa’s Garden Route is fast becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa, after Cape Town and Kruger National Park. You can’t help but be seduced by Garden Route’s numerous seaside towns, world-class vineyards and stunning beaches. And with so much things to do and to see here’s our “2016 quick guide” to your next Garden Route adventure.
Travel to the Garden Route
The easiest and most convenient way to get to the Garden Route is to fly direct to George Airport. All local airlines fly into George at least once, and some, twice a day making finding flights a breeze.
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Getting around the Garden Route
Driving the length of the Garden Route and stopping in all towns and attractions is what makes this area so special so either renting a car or choosing a shuttle or tour company is the best way to see the most of this splendid part of South Africa. All major car rental companies operate from the airport.
When to visit the Garden Route
The Garden Route enjoys a temperate climate and is mild all year round. There are a few cold snaps during winter especially in July and August, but if the sun is out the temperature rarely drops below 15 degrees Celsius.
- The most popular time to visit is during the summer months from November to April. If you plan to visit in December and January it is best to book well in advance as this is the peak season and the whole region is often fully booked. February and March are probably the best months as it is when the region experiences the best weather and it is not as busy as the peak summer season.
Things to do in the Garden Route
The Garden Route is made up of many wonderful coastal towns all the way from Stillbaai to Storms River. Each town has something unique to offer. From award winning restaurants, tourist attractions and extreme outdoor activities to incomparable views and natural beauty Garden Route is abound with activities.
The Garden Route has recently been voted as the outdoor sport and adventure capital of South Africa. Some of these activities are a must do for every visitor while others are only really for the very brave at heart. Here are some of our suggestions:
- Boat-based whale and dolphin watching tours in Knysna and Plettenberg Bay
- Paragliding in Wilderness and Sedgefield
- Zip-lining and tree top canopy tours in Storm’s River
- Swimming with seals in Plettenberg Bay
- Highest Bungy Jump in the World in Bloukrans
- Skydiving in George and Plettenberg Bay
- Black water tubing in Storm’s River
- The moonlight hike to Gericke’s Point in Sedgefield
- Golfing in George
The Garden Route is also one of the most wonderful destinations for families with many animal adventures, hiking, cycling, swimming, surfing lessons and golf being just a handful of the outdoor attractions in the area. One of the most popular being Animal Alley in The Crags where visitors can see the famous Birds of Eden, Monkeyland and Jukani sanctuaries, as well as the famous Featherbed, Robberg, Goukamma and Tsitsikamma Nature Reserves.
If too much exercise is not your thing then why not take one of many scenic drives such as the 7 passes route between George and Knysna where you traverse some of the oldest passes and roads in the area such as the famous Swartrivier, Homtini, Karatara and Touw passes all built in the late 1800’s by the famous engineer Thomas Bain. You can do the famous Rheenendal Ramble, just outside Knysna and visit the many craft shops and restaurants. In addition driving the N2 between George and Storm’s River you will pass many picturesque inland coastal lakes, sweeping ocean views and thick indigenous forest.
Where to eat and drink around the Garden Route
If you’re a foodie then the Garden Route has an abundance of different and excellent restaurants you will have more than your fill. Some of the more famous ones definitely worth a visit are Pomodoro’, Salina’s, Flava, The Fat Fish, Tapas and Oysters, Blue Olives, Enrico’s, Veg-table, Marilyn-s 60’s Diner, Zucchini and Totties.
The Garden Route, specifically around Plettenberg Bay, has developed a wine route with over 15 wine farms, 7 of them offering tastings of some award winning white wines and Method Cap Classique wines. Be sure to visit Newstead Cellars, Bramon Cellars, Packwood and Redford Road.
If all of this seems too much to take in Garden Route is also the perfect place to unwind in a peaceful beach or forest setting. Little villages like Nature’s Valley, Buffalo Bay or Keurbooms Strand will have you so relaxed within minutes of arriving you may forget to leave. With all this and more just an easy flight to George away, why wouldn’t you start planning your next Garden Route visit as soon as possible?
Feeling inspired? Then make sure to check out our blogs about George.
