The Garden Route -South Africa's Eden

The Garden Route is a popular enchanting stretch of the South-Eastern coast of South Africa, which extends from the Heidelberg in the Western Cape region, to the Storms River that flows across the N2 coastal highway, in the extreme western section of the neighbouring Eastern Cape region. The region derives its appellation from its bounteous vegetation and outstanding ecological diversity. Generally alluded to as South Africa’s Eden, the Garden Route expanse is an unmatched  treasure-trove of indigenous canopy forest, rivers, wetlands, dunes, stretches of unblemished beaches, serene lakes, mountainous scenery and indigenous fynbos. The blended splendour of these natural features offers the region restorative beauty. The area has one of the mildest micro-climates in the world, with temperatures neither too high not too low. On one side of the Garden Route are the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains; and on the other is the Indian Ocean. The ecosystem of the area is graced by ten nature reserves, while the marine ecological niche hosts soft coral reefs, dolphins, seals and other precious marine life. Some of the most interesting towns located on the Garden Route include Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn, Plettenberg Bay, Nature’s Valley, Knysna and George. The largest administrative region on the Garden Route is George.

The world’s highest bungee bridge, called the Bloukrans Bridge Bungee, is situated on the Garden Route; a testimony of the area’s soaring scenery.

One of the Garden Route’s most sought-after travel destinations; Knysna, is situated between luxuriant forests and the shores of a peaceful lagoon. Knysna avoids a lavish supply of outdoor opportunities; and a plethora of leisurely strolling paths, complemented by authentic dining and shopping venues. A compelling geographical feature in the town is a pair of cliffs referred to as the head, majestically situated at the mouth of a lagoon. Each of the two cliffs provides spectacular views of the adjacent colourful cliffs and the stunning lagoon, where seasonal whale watching is a highly rewarding undertaking.