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The Enchantment of the Garden Route:

A Scenic Adventure from Mossel Bay to Storms River

Embark on an unparalleled adventure along the Garden Route, a mesmerizing blend of pristine beaches, shimmering lagoons, and lush indigenous forests interspersed with charming towns. This picturesque journey unfolds along a scenic coastal highway, offering a quintessential four-wheeled odyssey for both seasoned road warriors and novice travelers alike.

Spanning 124 miles along the Western Cape, from Mossel Bay to Storms River, the Garden Route beckons with its myriad of attractions and endless possibilities for exploration. Whether you opt for a leisurely four-day jaunt or an extended fortnight expedition, each stretch of the route unveils a treasure trove of natural wonders, cultural delights, and warm hospitality.

  1. Mossel Bay: Serving as the gateway to the Garden Route, Mossel Bay enchants travelers with its breathtaking coastal vistas and delectable local cuisine. Before the official commencement of the Garden Route, drivers are treated to scenic wonders like Betty’s Bay and quaint roadside cafes offering farm-fresh delights known as padkos. Stretch your legs on the St Blaize Trail, a rugged coastal hike boasting panoramic views from Cape St Blaize Lighthouse to Dana Bay.

  2. George: Just a short drive down the coast lies the historic timber town of George. Take a moment to explore the Garden Route Botanical Garden, where the captivating fynbos of the Cape Floral Region awaits. Venture further inland to discover the Seven Passes route, winding through the majestic Outeniqua Mountains towards the charming town of Knysna.

  3. Knysna: Renowned for its culinary scene and picturesque lagoon, Knysna is a highlight of the Garden Route. Indulge in gourmet delights, soak in panoramic views from the eastern head viewpoint, and immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the Xhosa community. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Robberg Peninsula, home to secluded beaches and breathtaking hiking trails.

  4. Wilderness National Park: Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the wilderness of the national park, where camping, hiking, and kayaking opportunities abound. Traverse scenic trails, spot exotic bird species, and bask in the natural beauty of the area's wetlands and forests.

  5. Plettenberg Bay: A paradise for beach lovers, Plettenberg Bay boasts stunning coastal scenery and abundant marine life. Explore sandy coves, encounter migrating whales and dolphins, and visit attractions like Robberg Nature Reserve and Birds of Eden.

  6. Storms River: Journey's end lies in Storms River village, surrounded by rugged landscapes and thrilling outdoor adventures. Explore the Tsitsikamma Forest, embark on kayaking expeditions, and marvel at the world's highest bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge. Conclude your Garden Route odyssey with a hike along the legendary Otter Trail, offering a fitting finale to your epic journey.

Duration: 4-14 days

Starting Point: Cape Town International Airport

Destination: Storms River

Route Highlights: Mossel Bay to Storms River along the N2 highway, with scenic stops including George, Wilderness, Knysna, and Plettenberg Bay. Optional detours to Swellendam or Hermanus for additional sights and experiences.

Best Time to Go: Spring and summer months (September to April) for optimal weather and blooming fynbos.

Driving Tips: The Garden Route is popular and safe, making it ideal for solo travelers, women, and families alike.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Garden Route

We've taken the liberty to answer everything you may need to know about visiting Garden Route

Where does the Garden Route start and end?
The official Garden Route starts in Mossel Bay in the west, and ends at Storms River in the east. Knysna, in the middle, is a great place to base yourself on the Garden Route as all the attractions are within very easy reach and accommodation is good here.
What is so special about the Garden Route?
The Garden Route provides a coastline of some 300 km between Mossel Bay and Plettenberg Bay – one of South Africa's most popular holiday destinations for its effortless combination of ancient forests, rivers, wetlands, pristine stretches of beach, lakes, mountains and fynbos.
How long is the Garden Route Drive?
The Garden Route is a glorious 300-kilometre / 190-mile stretch of coastline in South Africa. It runs from the small town of Mossel Bay (Mussel Bay) to the mouth of the Storms River and takes in places of outstanding natural beauty along the way, like George, Knysna (pronounced 'Nighs-nah') and Plettenberg Bay.
Is it safe to self drive the Garden Route?
It's no surprise that self-drives have become a popular choice among travelers - offering flexibility and a true sense of freedom and adventure. But is it safe to drive the garden route in South Africa? It most definitely is, and so many of our clients who have traveled the garden route would agree!
What is the best way to travel the Garden Route?
We highly recommend using your own private transport or renting a car. Not only will this be the easiest and most affordable option, but you'll also be travelling around quite a bit once you've reached this wild wonderland. The drive will take four to five hours.
Is the Garden Route worth it in South Africa?
A serendipitous combination of world-class beaches, iridescent lagoons and indigenous forests interspersed with welcoming towns, and a simple, scenic, ocean-hugging highway guarantees the Garden Route inclusion in every roundup of ultimate four-wheeled adventures.

Get To Know Cape Winelands

The Cape Winelands District Municipality, formerly the Boland District Municipality, is a district municipality located in the Boland region of the Western Cape province of South Africa. As of 2011, it had a population of 787,490. The largest towns in the municipality are Paarl, Worcester, Stellenbosch and Wellington

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