The Garden Route

The beautiful drive along South Africa’s Garden Route is actually a 160 mile stretch of road along the southern coastline of the Eastern and Western Cape Provinces. However, the most popular self-drive extends the route to begin in Cape Town and end in Port Elizabeth using the scenic Route 62, which extends the drive to around 450 miles in total.

South Africa is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in the world and there are a string of sandy coves and rocky outcrops along the route. Some of the best are at Mossel Bay, a small village at the start of the Garden Route that highlights the charm of the area.

When stopping in Oudtshoorn, be sure to venture up in to the mountains via the Swartberg Pass. Although often shrouded in cloud the views are well worth the detour away from the sea. The town has now become famous as the center of the South African Ostrich industry and there are several farms that will introduce you to the natives who produce amazingly large eggs and beautiful feathers for the fashion industry.

The relaxed town of Knysna is situated on the banks of a large estuary surrounded by thick forest that spreads from the Wilderness National Park. The rugged coastline gives way to a mix of fast flowing rivers, calm lakes and protected wetland habitats that are well worth exploring.

To extend your holiday spend a few nights in Cape Town and explore the winelands, or wait until the Eastern Cape to take in a traditional safari. Take your time and enjoy the views.