The Garden Route is one of South Africa’s most iconic travel regions, stretching along the southern coastline through forests, beaches, lagoons, mountains and charming coastal towns. Known for its natural beauty and relaxed road-trip appeal, the region offers something for every traveller, from outdoor adventures and beach holidays to wildlife encounters and romantic escapes. Visitors can enjoy hiking, whale watching, canoeing, scenic drives, forest walks, coastal viewpoints and adventure activities. Towns along the route each offer their own character, making it ideal for multi-stop itineraries. With its combination of scenery, activities and accommodation variety, the Garden Route remains one of South Africa’s favourite holiday destinations.
The Garden Route is a popular and scenic stretch of the south-eastern coast of South Africa. It stretches from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to the Storms River which is crossed along the N2 coastal highway over the Paul Sauer Bridge in the extreme western reach of the neighbouring Eastern Cape. The name comes from the verdant and ecologically diverse vegetation encountered here and the numerous lagoons and lakes dotted along the coast. It includes towns such as Mossel Bay, Knysna, Oudtshoorn, Plettenberg Bay and Nature’s Valley; with George, the Garden Route’s largest city and main administrative centre.
At a glance
Why stay in The Garden Route?
The Garden Route offers breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventure, beautiful beaches and charming towns in one unforgettable road-trip destination.
Accommodation & specials in The Garden Route
Fancourt Hotel
Western Cape, The Garden Route
From R2,035
Excluding Peak PeriodsFrom 01 Apr to 31 Oct 2026
More about The Garden Route
Forests, beaches, lagoons, scenic drives and adventure activities.
The Garden Route has long been a popular coastal travel corridor, shaped by forestry, fishing, farming and tourism.
Indigenous forests, fynbos, marine life, birdlife and wildlife reserves in the broader region.
Whale watching, hiking, canoeing, scenic drives, beach activities, forest walks and adventure sports.
Mild coastal climate with moderate rainfall and comfortable conditions throughout the year.
Numerous towns and communities line the route, with English and Afrikaans widely spoken.