Understanding the Garden Route
The Garden Route officially stretches from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape, covering approximately 200 kilometers of South Africa’s most beautiful coastline. This spectacular route takes you through diverse landscapes, from coastal cliffs and pristine beaches to indigenous forests and tranquil lagoons.
As leading providers of Garden Route accommodation, we’ll guide you through each major destination along this iconic route.
Major Destinations Along the Route
Starting Point: Mossel Bay
Mossel Bay marks the official starting point of the Garden Route. Known for its year-round mild climate and historic significance, this coastal town offers:
- Historic Point of Human Origins caves
- Santos Beach – Blue Flag status
- Dias Museum Complex
- Year-round whale and dolphin watching
Featured Stay: Point Village Hotel
George: The Heart of the Garden Route
George serves as the administrative capital of the Garden Route and offers:
- World-class golf courses
- Outeniqua Mountains hiking trails
- Historic landmarks
- Modern shopping facilities
Luxury Stay: The Manor House at Fancourt
Wilderness: Natural Paradise
Wilderness captivates visitors with its:
- Long stretches of pristine beach
- Series of lakes and lagoons
- Paragliding opportunities
- Bird watching spots
Recommended Stay: Dune Villa Wilderness
Sedgefield: Africa’s First Slow Town
Sedgefield offers a slower pace of life with:
- Famous Saturday Wild Oats Market
- Lakes and estuaries perfect for water sports
- Pristine beaches
- Nature walks and hiking trails
Perfect Stay: Riverview House
Knysna: The Jewel of the Garden Route
Famous for its lagoon and heads, Knysna features:
- The iconic Knysna Heads
- Thesen Island
- Featherbed Nature Reserve
- Knysna Elephant Park
Luxury Option: Timeless Knysna
Plettenberg Bay: The Ultimate Beach Destination
Plettenberg Bay offers:
- Multiple Blue Flag beaches
- Marine wildlife experiences
- Robberg Nature Reserve
- Adventure activities
Premium Stay: Endless Summer Villa
Travel Tips for the Garden Route
- Best Time to Visit: October to April for warm weather
- Recommended Duration: 5-7 days minimum
- Transport: Rent a car for flexibility
- Accommodation: Book in advance during peak season (December-January)
- Activities: Mix outdoor adventures with relaxation
Seasonal Highlights
| Season | Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | December – February | Beach activities, festivals, outdoor dining |
| Autumn | March – May | Hiking, whale watching begins |
| Winter | June – August | Whale watching peak, indoor activities |
| Spring | September – November | Wildflowers, perfect hiking weather |
Frequently Asked Questions About the Garden Route
Where is the start point of the Garden Route?
The Garden Route officially starts in Mossel Bay in the Western Cape and extends to Storms River in the Eastern Cape. Mossel Bay is located approximately 400km from Cape Town.
How long does it take to drive the Garden Route?
The direct drive takes about 3 hours, but we recommend 5-7 days to properly explore the route and its attractions. Each town deserves at least one full day of exploration.
What are the main towns along the Garden Route?
The main towns are Mossel Bay, George, Wilderness, Sedgefield, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Nature’s Valley. Each offers unique attractions and experiences. Find great accommodation in all Garden Route towns.
Can you do the Garden Route in 2 days?
While possible, it’s not recommended. Two days only allows for brief stops and misses many key attractions. A minimum of 4 days is suggested for a satisfactory experience.
Which month is best for visiting the Garden Route?
December to March offers warm weather perfect for beaches, while September to November provides mild temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. Peak season is December-January.
Is it safe to self-drive the Garden Route?
Yes, the Garden Route is one of South Africa’s safest tourist routes. The N2 highway is well-maintained, and towns are tourist-friendly. Standard safety precautions apply.
Is it better to stay in Knysna or Plettenberg Bay?
Both offer unique experiences. Knysna is better for lagoon activities and dining, while Plettenberg Bay excels in beaches and marine activities. Consider splitting your time between both.
Is the Garden Route safe in 2025?
Yes, the Garden Route remains one of South Africa’s premier tourist destinations with good security infrastructure. Exercise normal travel precautions as you would in any tourist destination.
Do you need a 4×4 for the Garden Route?
No, a regular car is sufficient as main roads are well-maintained. A 4×4 is only necessary if you plan to explore off-road trails or certain nature reserves.
Where should I stay along the Garden Route?
We recommend splitting your stay between multiple towns. Popular choices include:
- Mossel Bay for history enthusiasts
- Wilderness for nature lovers
- Knysna for lagoon activities
- Plettenberg Bay for beach activities