Visiting the Garden Route in Summer
If you are looking for a relaxing vacation, the Garden Route is the place to be. This scenic region offers many outdoor activities and beautiful scenery. In this post, I will show you some of my favourite activities in the Garden Route South Africa that are suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Nature’s Valley
Nature’s Valley is a town in the Western Cape province of South Africa, located in the Tsitsikamma region. It is situated on the Garden Route between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. The town came into being as a result of its proximity to the Stutterheim Mountain Pass, which was used by travellers heading from George to Port Elizabeth via Grahamstown. The pass also marked part of an important route for transporting timber from Knysna to Cape Town during colonial times. The Nature’s Valley Trust offers some great walks and tours, and all they ask in return is a donation to their fun. These walks are offered by very knowledgeable staff.
The Dolphin Trail is one of the most renowned hiking trails in the Garden Route. It’s located just outside Plettenberg Bay and offers beautiful views of the sea and surrounding mountains.
The trail can be accessed from two different points: either from Plettenberg Bay or Knysna. Hikers will find that they are rewarded with a spectacular view at every turn, and it is easy to see why this trail is so popular with tourists. As you hike along, there are plenty of spots where you can stop for a break and enjoy the view before continuing on your journey onward up to Montagu Pass (1,852 metres above sea level). The easy part of your hike ends at Montagu Pass – from here on out it gets much more difficult! From this point onwards hikers must climb an extremely steep slope that takes around two hours to ascend; however, there are plenty of rewards waiting for you once you reach the top – namely stunning views over forested mountainsides covered in rich green trees that go down all around you as far as your eyes can see! When hiking during summer months take extra care when climbing up these slopes as they become extremely hot during this time of year – if possible stay out early morning or late afternoon only when temperatures cool down slightly after sunset or before sunrise respectively.”
Robberg Peninsula hike
Robberg Peninsula is a part of the Garden Route and it is a beautiful area with a lot of wildlife. It’s also a great place to hike and swim and go for a picnic.
Robberg Peninsula has some spectacular beaches that are perfect for swimming in all year round. The best time to visit Robberg Peninsula is during summer when you can enjoy the beautiful weather while swimming in one of its many stunning rivers or creeks.
Knysna Lagoon boat cruise
The lagoon is the perfect place to see a variety of birds, including flamingos and pelicans. The cruise departs from the Knysna Waterfront, which is an ideal spot for those who want to explore more of the town after their cruise.
There are many different cruises available, including one-hour sunset cruises and three-hour dinner cruises. These cruises can be booked online or in person at any local tour company office in Knysna.
The lagoon boat cruise is good for families as it provides a safe environment for children to play on the deck while adults enjoy an adult beverage and take photos of this beautiful part of South Africa’s Garden Route!
The beaches of Plettenberg Bay / Plett
The beaches in Plettenberg Bay are also some of the best in South Africa. Even though they are not as white and pristine as those along the Garden Route, they are still absolutely breathtaking and perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Plettenberg Bay is a great place to visit during summer when it’s not too hot yet to enjoy outdoor activities on the beach or hiking through one of the many parks surrounding this town.
Besides its wonderful beaches, Plettenberg Bay is also known for its surfing and hiking opportunities which make it an ideal tourist destination during the summer months.
Tsitsikamma National Park activities
- Hiking: The Tsitsikamma is the perfect place to hike. With over 400km of trails, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
- Cycling: Cycle through the stunning scenery on one of the many cycling trails in this area. Don’t forget your camera!
- Canoeing: The Tsitsikamma has a number of canoe routes that will get you close to nature and help you relax as you drift downriver and explore some beautiful landscapes.
- Canopy walks: Experience a thrilling adventure high up in the forest canopy as you walk along wooden pathways between platforms at various heights while enjoying spectacular views over the lush forest floor below.
Waterfall hikes: There are many waterfall hikes available which take an average of three hours to complete – these include Sunday’s River and Birding Trail, Storms River Mouth via Oribi Gorge trail, Slangkop Nature Reserve, Slanghoek Hiking Trail and Kalkoenkrans Hiking Trail (all within 30km from Plettenberg Bay).
Swartberg Pass and Prince Albert hikes
If you are looking to get out of the city and into nature, set aside a day or two in your itinerary to visit the Swartberg Pass and Prince Albert National Park.
The Swartberg Pass is famous for its wildflowers and its towering rock formations. The area is also home to many hiking trails that lead to some of South Africa’s best viewpoints. There are no fees required at any of these sites, but it is recommended that you bring along snacks and water as there are no facilities available on site.
The Prince Albert National Park has over 200 different species of animals including gemsboks, mountain reedbucks, black rhinos and cheetahs! In addition to these amazing animals there are many beautiful waterfalls within walking distance from where we will be staying which makes this an ideal spot if you want some time away from touristy areas without needing too much transportation (and perhaps less expense).
Monkeyland and Birds of Eden (near Plett)
Monkeyland and Birds of Eden are a must-see for any animal lover. Located in the Plettenberg Bay area, these sanctuaries house rescued primates and birds. You can visit both in one day with a guided tour, or stay overnight at the park to see them when they’re most active.
Monkeyland offers two different tours: the morning walk and afternoon safari. The morning walk takes you through the sanctuary with a guide who will explain how each primate has fallen into human hands and how they were brought here to be rehabilitated before being returned to their natural habitats. You’ll also get up close and personal with some of these animals’ distinct personalities!
The afternoon safari allows you more freedom as well as the opportunity for photography—but do keep an eye out for those sneaky monkeys!
Mountain biking the fabulous Otter Trail
The Otter Trail is a mountain bike trail in the Garden Route National Park, along the coast of South Africa. The trail is approximately 100km long and takes 3 days to complete (if you’re a good rider). The trail is graded as difficult, with some sections being very steep.
There are many things to do in the Garden Route.
We hope you’re inspired to pack your bags and explore some of these amazing destinations. The Garden Route is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure, and we’re sure you won’t be disappointed! Forest Edge Nature’s Lovers Retreat is ready to welcome you this summer holiday!
Forest Greetings
