South Africa's Garden Route

South Africa's Garden Route is an awe-inspiring paradise destination. The majesty of the Garden Route is obvious, thanks to its stunning wide coastline with stretches of golden beach, glorious mountains, twisting rivers, indigenous forests, outstanding accommodation, tempting restaurants, and the inspiring Mediterranean climate that makes it the peaceful holiday destination it is. To entirely benefit from the pleasure of the Garden Route, we recommend staying at Tsala Treetop Lodge.

There are many opportunities waiting to be experienced along the Garden Route, making it more than a sheer beach holiday destination. Extra fun adventures to be found along the Garden Route include, riding on ostriches, bungee jumping, and hiking through the forests and rocky mountains. Nature fans will enjoy spotting the great variety of bird and plant species in the number of national parks and nature reserves where wildlife is abundunt.

There are lots of water activities waiting to be discovered for any water buff. The temperatures of the Indian Ocean lends itself to surfing, whale and dolphin watching, sea kayaking, great diving, sailing, and even shark diving.

If it is a peaceful vacation you are looking for, you will find it in any of the ample selection of best rated hotels and guest houses extending along the Garden Route. Also on offer is an adrenalin rush of a lifetime.
Here is a list of only some of the Garden Route’s gems, each with its own interesting factors.

Montagu

This small town was built in the 19th century, and offers its visitors a chance of exploring activities such as mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, visits to the art galleries and museums, bird watching, and strolls in the Wildflower nature garden. The Montagu region is also known for the warm kindness given to its guests by the residents. There is also wide selection accommodation available.

Mossel Bay

Situated midway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay is blessed with an easygoing climate all year round, making it a busy holiday destination throughout the year. There are many opportunities for various adventure watersports such as snorkeling, shark cage diving, power boating, and ship wreck diving that will leave water fans feeling spoilt for choice. Land activities comprise of bungee and bridge jumping, golf, indoor/outdoor swimming pools and horse riding. In addition, the town has a well established road and rail network and various types of accommodation for diverse tastes.

Swellendam

Swellendam is located at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains, and offers its guests a wide selection of indoor and outdoor activities like gliding, horse-riding, historical sites, mountain trails, canoeing and further more water sports. A widevariety of accommodation is available to suit every taste in Swellendam.

Hermanus

This acclaimed whale watching town is located along the coast of Walker Bay with magnificent mountains in the backdrop while overlooking the ocean. The town of Hermanus boasts cheerful air, extended golden beaches, mild climate, and is not too far from the Cape Town International airport. Hermanus offers a chance to discover adventure activities such as kayaking, sand boarding, scuba diving, sailing, paragliding, shark cage diving, and horseback riding. The town is packed with accommodation and restaurants for diverse tastes and pockets.

Oudtshoorn

Just 55 km from George, lies the sleepy town of Oudtshoorn which boasts a wide selection of accommodation, from five star hotels to affordable Bed and Breakfasts. Oudtshoorn has more than 400 ostrich farms, some of which offer entertaining shows. Many farms offer ostrich rides; ostriches are the biggest of the bird species. Located just 3 km of Oudtshoorn is the famous Cango Wildlife Ranch. The ranch offers visitors a close interaction with snakes, crocodiles, hippos, cheetahs, and other wildlife animals.

George

At the heart of the Garden Route is George, one of the country’s oldest towns. The grand Outeniqua Mountain and the Indian Ocean both surround the city, and with every turn you make the mountain and mcean provide incredible views. George offers a wide range of sporting interests including mountain biking and hiking, whale watching, paragliding, surfing, and scuba diving. George is also growing as a top golf town and is home to Fancourt Golf Estate.

Knysna

Seeing is believing. Knysna is the perfect base for any tourist who wishes to discover the Garden Route while experiencing holiday like no other. Whether it is adventure or relaxation they are after, visitors have plenty of opportunities for activities such as scenic drives, walks in indigenous forests, and beach experiences in quaint settings. Knysna is home to the one time Knysna Elephants herds.

Storms River/Tsitsikama

This small settlement is situated just outside famous Tsitsikama National Park, and is within safe distance of one of South Africa’s best conserved forests. The park has several trails, one of which feature a shaky suspension bridge. Storms River, which offers breathtaking views of the gorge, is a must-see sight. And of course the Tsitsikama National Park for its several trails, one of which feature a shaky suspension bridge.

Plettenberg Bay

Also heedlessly branded “Plett”, this trendy town is one of the most well-liked along the Garden Route and is a stone's throw from Knysna. The town is characterized by stretches of amazing golden beach with warm waters, surrounded mostly by upper-class holiday houses. The weather is tame and there is plenty to do including skydiving, gliding, whale watching, hiking, championship golf courses, polo fields, and so many other elements making Plett a popular holiday destination for locals and tourists alike. At night, Plettenberg Bay is lively with pubs, night-spots and admirable restaurants. There is a wide range of accommodation available along the Garden Route and we highly recommend staying at Tsala Treetop Lodge for a luxury Garden Route destination.