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TTo say I had an epic time on the Garden Route would be an understatement. I spent eight glorious days in the most beautiful place in the world and had the adventure of a lifetime with five women. If you are planning to holiday in one of the natural wonders of South Africa, here are my three recommendations:
Knysna
One thing you must try out in the Knysna area is mountain biking in the Harkerville Forest. Harkerville is considered the capital of mountain biking in the country with at least five routes for moderate to advanced riders.
Did You Know?
TThe Garden Route is a 300km stretch of the southern most Cape coast which is sandwiched between the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains and the Indian Ocean
WWe were all beginners, but gave the 5km ride to the viewing point our best. Knysna is rated number one in biodiversity conservation. It’s picturesque and home to the Knysna seahorse, the Knysna gobi and many other species. The mountain bike ride can be followed by a relaxing afternoon boat cruise along the rich Thesen Island shores.
The Garden Route's top 3 holiday destinations
Tsitsikamma
The Storms River Rest Camp in the Tsitsikamma is a R17 million facelift to ensure entrance to the national park is done efficiently. The project is expected to be completed in the end of next year.
Once inside, the waves crashing against the rocky coastline provide a magnificent scene for the day and overnight visitors. Home to the famous Otter hiking trail, the Tsitsikamma section of Garden Route National Park is the only one in Africa with 12 green-flag status hiking trails. Beachfront log cabins line the coastline. The sound of breaking waves in the middle of the night will have you feeling like you are in heaven on earth.
Day activities include a hike up the mountain to the spectacular suspension bridge which hangs over the Storms River Mouth, spanning 77m. It remains one of the most popular tourist attractions of the Tsitsikamma region of the Eastern Cape. Situated within the Tsitsikamma National Park, it was originally built in 1969, but has since been rebuilt by SA National Parks to ensure its stability and safety. It hangs just 7m above the churning waters of the river as it enters the foamy Indian Ocean.
Wilderness National Park
The Wilderness, like Knysna and the Tsitsikamma forest, has a water area. It is famous for its Wilderness lakes. There are water birds galore bird hides to view some of the most fascinating birds such as the malachite kingfisher. Log cabins, similar to those at the Storms River Mouth, are used for accommodation and overlook a wetland, especially for twitchers. More adventure awaits.
My favourite was the Segway through a nature trail. I have been on one in Durban but certainly not in the bush on uneven ground. It was a bit tricky to negotiate but also added to the adrenalin rush. Make sure you take the 5km hike to the waterfalls. The Segway adventure adds to the value of the trip. For breakfast, try The Green Shed Coffee Roastery and for dinner, the Pomodoro restaurant. I was told about their mouthwatering award-winning cheesecake before I left Joburg.
Don’t forget a romantic stroll on the pristine beaches at sunset. It usually gets quite full on
weekends but it is well maintained. And all the best of luck with spotting those elusive Knysna elephants.
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