The Garden Route Holidays

The Garden Route, which starts from Mossel Bay and ends at Port Elizabeth, is sure to seduce you. The region boasts one of the wildest and most staggeringly beautiful stretches of coastline you will ever see, while inland there are picturesque lagoons and lakes, rolling hills and soaring mountains.

A drive along the Garden Route, which stretches just over 180 miles, should ideally be spread out over four or five days stopping at the places we recommend. If you're looking to quickly drive through the region, the N2 Highway covers the length of the route, or for a more leisurely alternative, there are a network of scenic back roads. Most people drop their car in Port Elizabeth at the end of the route and then take a flight to their next port of call.

Mossel Bay: This beautiful holiday town, surrounded by the Indian Ocean, is where the first European, Bartholmeu Diaz, set anchor in 1488. Along with the many museums to visit it's also a sport enthusiast's paradise and starting point for boat trips - don't miss a visit to Seal Islands to see the Cape fur seals.

George: The Garden Route's biggest town lies centrally between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth at the base of the Outeniqua mountains. The historic town centre boasts some magnificent buildings and landmarks, including the Slave Tree and the railway station which houses a fascinating railway museum.

Oudtshoorn: The biggest town in the Little Karoo, an inland region. It's most famous for its ostrich farming with, with around 400 surrounding farms, some of which offer guided tours.

Knysna: Knysna is built around a huge natural lagoon, which is connected to the ocean by a narrow gap between two cliffs, called The Heads. The town's pretty main street is lined with shops and restaurants and is also known for the annual Oyster Festival held in July.

Plettenberg Bay: Upmarket "Plett" has golden beaches stretching for miles along the Indian Ocean, with sailing, fishing and scuba diving available. Whilst popular in the summer months, it can be surprisingly quiet, out of season.

Cape St Francis: This beautiful town's attractions include the white sandy beaches and historic Seal Point lighthouse. It's all about the great outdoors here, with an abundance of nature reserves along with fabulous watersport options.

Port Elizabeth: The fifth largest city in the country and the biggest on the coast between Cape Town and Durban. This important harbour town and industrial centre has an attractive atmosphere, wide beaches, some beautiful parks, landscaped gardens and an impressive promenade. From Port Elizabeth, it's only a short hop to some of the private game reserves of the Eastern Cape.

Why visit The Garden Route?

Glorious natural scenery
Coastal walks & forest trails
Whale watching
Golden beaches
Charming seaside towns