What is the Garden Route?
The Garden Route is a popular and picturesque stretch of coastal road that runs along the south-western coast of South Africa. The route stretches for over 200 miles from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape. This scenic drive is named after its lush vegetation and diverse fauna, which makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and tourists.
The History of the Garden Route
The Garden Route has a rich history dating back to the Stone Age when San hunter-gatherers roamed the area. Later, the Khoi-Khoi pastoralists settled in the region and traded with European explorers. The first European to explore the route was Bartholomeu Dias, who sailed around the Cape of Good Hope in 1488. The route became a popular transport route for timber, ostrich feathers, and precious metals during the 19th century. Today, the Garden Route is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.
What are the Top Attractions on the Garden Route?
1. Tsitsikamma National Park
Tsitsikamma National Park is a world-renowned nature reserve that covers over 50 miles of coastline. The park is home to an abundance of flora and fauna, including over 300 species of birds, dolphins, and seals. Visitors can explore the park by hiking, kayaking, or taking a canopy tour.
2. Knysna Heads
The Knysna Heads are two towering cliffs that guard the entrance to the Knysna lagoon. Visitors can take a boat tour to get a closer look at the cliffs and the surrounding marine life. The views from the top of the cliffs are breathtaking and offer a unique perspective of the coastline.
3. Cango Caves
The Cango Caves are a series of underground chambers and tunnels that stretch for over 2 miles. Visitors can take a guided tour of the caves and learn about their geology and history. The caves are home to an array of stalactites and stalagmites, some of which are over 10 feet tall.
4. Oudtshoorn
Oudtshoorn is a charming town located in the heart of the Little Karoo. The town is known for its ostrich farms and offers visitors the opportunity to ride ostriches or watch them being raced. The town also has a number of historical buildings, museums, and art galleries to explore.
What are the Best Outdoor Activities on the Garden Route?
1. Bungee Jumping
The Garden Route is home to the world’s highest commercial bungee jump, which is located at the Bloukrans Bridge. Visitors can experience the thrill of jumping off a 700-foot-high bridge into the gorge below.
2. Surfing
The Garden Route has some of the best surfing spots in South Africa, including Vic Bay, Jeffreys Bay, and Plettenberg Bay. These spots offer a mix of beginner and advanced breaks, making it suitable for surfers of all levels.
3. Hiking
The Garden Route has a number of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains. Some of the most popular trails include the Otter Trail, the Tsitsikamma Trail, and the Robberg Nature Reserve.
4. Whale Watching
The Garden Route is home to a number of whale watching spots, including Hermanus, Gansbaai, and Plettenberg Bay. Visitors can take a boat tour to get a closer look at these majestic creatures as they migrate along the coastline.
How to Get to the Garden Route
The Garden Route is easily accessible by car from Cape Town, which is located approximately 280 miles away. Visitors can take the N2 highway, which runs along the coastline, and stop off at the various towns and attractions along the way. There are also a number of domestic airports located in the towns along the Garden Route, making it easy to fly in from other parts of South Africa.
Conclusion
The Garden Route is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to South Africa. With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and range of outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a nature lover, adrenaline junkie, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, the Garden Route has it all.