Top reasons to visit Garden Route
- Stunning Landscapes: The Garden Route boasts breathtaking scenery, perfect for scenic drives and outdoor adventures.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a plethora of activities such as exhilarating safaris, hiking, and golf at picturesque courses.
- Charming Towns: Explore delightful towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, each with unique character and attractions.
- Wine Tours: Indulge in delightful wine tours at local vineyards, experiencing the region's rich viticulture.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of lodging options, from luxurious hotels to family-friendly guesthouses.
Find great hotels near Garden Route
Discover a variety of accommodation options along the stunning Garden Route, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you seek a charming guesthouse, a luxurious hotel, or family-friendly facilities, this region has something to offer. Enjoy breathtaking beach views, thrilling adventures, and exceptional hospitality while exploring the best reviews to find your ideal stay. Embark on an unforgettable vacation experience in the heart of South Africa.
- Gondwana Game Reserve: Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Garden Route, Gondwana Game Reserve is a luxurious 5-star property, rated 9.6 out of 10 by guests. This hotel caters to adventure seekers and families alike, offering an immersive experience with golf-themed activities and access to various adventure sports. Guests can indulge in activities such as snorkelling, surfing lessons, sailing, and ziplining, ensuring a thrilling stay. The reserve is well-equipped for younger visitors with amenities like a children’s club and babysitting services, making it suitable for family vacations. With its proximity to the Garden Route, Gondwana is an excellent choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
- ATKV Hartenbos: A charming 3-star hotel, ATKV Hartenbos boasts a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10 and is located 21km from the Garden Route. This property is ideal for families looking to enjoy a beach holiday, offering direct access to sandy shores. Children are well catered for with amenities such as a shared playground and children’s pool, ensuring a fun-filled stay for younger guests. The relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly facilities make it a delightful option for those wishing to unwind by the sea.
- Garden Route Safari Camp: Offering a unique safari tent experience, Garden Route Safari Camp is a 3.5-star accommodation with a commendable guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, situated 13km from the Garden Route. This camp provides a range of dining options, including complimentary continental breakfast and various meal services throughout the day. Guests can engage in exciting activities such as hiking, fishing, and horse riding nearby, while the on-site game viewing adds a touch of adventure. With stunning mountain views and a focus on outdoor experiences, this camp is perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Where to stay near Garden Route
Experience the enchanting Garden Route, a treasure trove of outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery in South Africa. This picturesque region invites families and nature enthusiasts alike to explore its stunning landscapes, friendly communities, and recreational activities. Take scenic road trips along the iconic N2, stopping at charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. Enjoy diverse accommodation options and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, making unforgettable memories amidst nature's splendour.
- Brandwag: Located 14km from the Garden Route, Brandwag is a charming city known for its eco-friendly and family-oriented experiences. The travel scene here is moderately seasonal, with peak visitor numbers from December to February. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, including a recreational area and wildlife attractions. Local highlights include nearby nature reserves and parks, perfect for family outings and nature walks. The city offers a welcoming atmosphere for those looking to connect with nature while indulging in leisure activities.
- Ruiterbos: Situated 19km away from the Garden Route, Ruiterbos is a delightful city that attracts visitors seeking outdoor and sporting experiences. The travel traffic here is moderately seasonal, peaking between December and February. Golf lovers will appreciate the well-maintained golf courses and private clubs in the area. In addition to sports, Ruiterbos boasts nature reserves and parks, providing opportunities for relaxation and exploration. The community-friendly vibe and scenic surroundings make it an ideal destination for both solo travellers and families.
- Dana Bay: Dana Bay is a quaint village located 19km from the Garden Route, offering a unique blend of outdoor and family-friendly experiences. Unlike the more seasonal tourist spots, Dana Bay sees consistent visitor interest, with peaks in September and December to January. Golf enthusiasts will enjoy the local golf courses and resorts, while nature lovers can explore the nearby parks and reserves. The village's serene environment and family-oriented activities ensure a memorable getaway for all types of travellers.
Things to do in Garden Route
Shopping
The Garden Route offers various shopping experiences. Visit the Garden Route Mall in George for a mix of local and international brands. For unique crafts, explore the Knysna Waterfront, where you can find artisanal goods and souvenirs reflecting the region's culture.
Recreation
At the Healing Retreat in Knysna, immerse yourself in rejuvenating treatments that blend ancient practices with modern techniques. In Wilderness, the Indulge Spa offers serene pampering experiences surrounded by lush forests, allowing guests to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Adventure
Explore the Tsitsikamma National Park, where you can hike along stunning coastal trails, encounter diverse wildlife, and experience the thrill of the Storms River Mouth by kayaking or bungee jumping from the Bloukrans Bridge, one of the highest in the world.
Visit Knysna for a unique lagoon experience, where you can partake in exciting boat trips, indulge in water sports, or explore the famous Knysna Heads for breathtaking views and scenic hikes amidst lush forests.
Try the Garden Route National Park, offering exhilarating mountain biking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to see the Big Five in the nearby Addo Elephant National Park, ensuring an unforgettable wildlife adventure.
Nightlife
The nightlife in the Garden Route offers a vibrant mix of experiences. Enjoy live music at The Barnyard Theatre in Plettenberg Bay or unwind at the lively pubs in Knysna. For a more relaxed evening, visit the bars along the beachfront in George, soaking in the coastal atmosphere.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Garden Route
To save on your trip to the Garden Route, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May to June and September, avoiding the peak season from December to February. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates, and look out for last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Saturdays typically offer the lowest prices, while Mondays are the most expensive. Utilise Expedia's filters to find budget-friendly options, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities to snag great package deals.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Garden Route are May to June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Garden Route about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Garden Route is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Garden Route is Monday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking along the Garden Route with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions near Garden Route
The Garden Route in the Western Cape is perfect for eco-friendly family holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as nature reserves, charming towns, and historic bridges. This region caters to diverse interests, from urban experiences to beach outings and cultural explorations. With its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, the Garden Route promises a memorable getaway for all types of travellers seeking adventure and relaxation.
- Botlierskop Private Game Reserve: Nestled 23km from the Garden Route, this reserve offers a luxurious and secluded experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying high-end accommodations. Guided safaris provide opportunities to see a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Dana Bay: Located 21km from the Garden Route, Dana Bay exudes a vibrant town atmosphere. With beautiful beaches and a friendly community, it's an ideal spot to relax and enjoy local cuisine while soaking in the coastal surroundings.
- Gourits River Bridge: This historic bridge, situated 18km from the Garden Route, boasts a rich cultural significance. Its stunning architecture and scenic views make it a lovely spot for photography and a deeper understanding of the area's heritage.
Best time to go to Garden Route
The best time to visit Garden Route can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Garden Route falls in January and February. February has moderately high visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather. The coolest average temperature around Garden Route falls in July, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Garden Route
Visiting the Garden Route in South Africa is easily accomplished via nearby airports. George Airport (GRJ) is situated 45km from the Garden Route, with excellent hotel options like Fancourt and The Manor House at Fancourt, both 6km away, offering free airport transportation and 24-hour shuttle services on request. Hilltop Boutique Hotel, located 16km from GRJ, provides limited-hour shuttle services. Alternatively, Plettenberg Bay Airport (PBZ) is 132km from the Garden Route, with luxurious stays such as The Plettenberg Hotel and Sky Villa Boutique Hotel , both 6km away, offering transportation for a fee, and Robberg Beach Lodge just 5km from PBZ.