The Garden Route is a unique stretch that runs along the south-eastern stretch of South Africa’s coastline. Banked by the warm Indian Ocean to the one side and sheltering mountains to the other, it is a lush area comprises of many ravines and rivers, bays and beaches. Its location creates a very mild climate that encourages verdant forests hence the name, ‘the Garden Route’.
Its most famous towns are Knysna (on beautiful estuary) and Plettenberg Bay (on a series of picture-perfect beaches). The forests surrounding Knysna were home to shy elephants and rumours of sightings of their modern-day ancestors persist. Another famous inhabitant is the lime-green Knysna loerie or turaco, which has deep red and dark blue wings. Much of the area is comprised of farmland or reserves, which preserve the peace and tranquillity. The route ends at the Storms River mouth, which is famous for both an iconic swing bridge and the Tsitsikamma National Park. Hikers, birders, surfers, foodies, kids and road trippers will all enjoy meandering along the Garden Route. If you venture a little further afield, you can reach the splendid Cango Caves (which have impressive stalactites and stalagmites) as well as Africa’s highest bungee jump and bridge swing at Bloukrans.
This area is very popular with self-drivers from Cape Town and many travellers combine with a safari as a way of seeing a different side of South Africa. Roads are generally well maintained and signposted, and there is a wide variety of accommodation, attractions and eateries to choose from.
