LOCAL TRAVEL
of the area’ s 19th-century gold rush before ending at a crystal-clear swimming hole.
The hike is easy, the scenery is beautiful, and the reward at the end is a cool-off in one of the most peaceful spots on the Garden Route. Not every treasure here is made of gold.
THE MAP OF AFRICA VIEWPOINT Between George and Wilderness lies one of the region’ s most unexpected viewpoints. Seen from above, the winding curves of the Kaaimans River trace an uncanny outline of the African continent.
It is a short detour off the N2, yet countless travellers speed past without realising they have missed one of the Garden Route’ s most photogenic panoramas. It is worth the stop, and worth the photograph.
ROBBERG NATURE RESERVE Just outside Plettenberg Bay, Robberg Nature Reserve delivers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in South Africa. Towering cliffs, pounding waves, sea caves, and sweeping ocean views make every step worthwhile, while a noisy colony of Cape fur seals and a rich archaeological history add depth to one of the region’ s most rewarding hikes. Visitors need not tackle the longest route to enjoy it either. The shorter trail options still deliver spectacular views, making Robberg worthwhile even for short stops.
NATURE’ S VALLEY If the Garden Route ever needed a place to catch its breath, it would be Nature’ s Valley. Nestled between indigenous forest, lagoon, and ocean, this small village feels wonderfully removed from the rush of modern life.
There are no bustling promenades or crowded attractions here, only quiet beaches, birdlife, forest walks, and the kind of tranquillity that has become increasingly rare. It is less a destination than a reminder to slow down.
OFF THE MAIN ROAD The Garden Route’ s international recognition is well deserved, but its greatest strength is not necessarily the landmarks everyone already knows. It lies in the unexpected viewpoints, forest trails, quiet beaches, and hidden corners waiting just beyond the next turn-off.
So yes, visit the famous attractions. Cruise the lagoon. Walk the suspension bridges. Photograph the beaches. But every now and then, ignore the itinerary. The Garden Route’ s best stories usually begin with,“ Let’ s see where this road goes.” IB
FUN FACTS
ROUTE: Mossel Bay to Storms River, approximately 300km.
RANKING: Named the world’ s best road trip by UK-based Autotrader, scoring 90.6 / 100 ahead of Route 66 in the USA and Italy’ s Amalfi Coast.
WHY IT STANDS OUT: Coastal scenery, openroad appeal, spectacular viewpoints, and easy access to beaches, forests, lagoons, and smalltown stops.
14 INBOUND SA / AUGUST 2026