ROAD TRIP
MOTHER CITY TO KNYSNA: one. epic. road trip. later.
BY BYRON LUKAS
THERE’ S SOMETHING ALMOST POETIC ABOUT PACKING YOUR BAGS, LOADING UP A FORD EVEREST, AND PRETENDING YOU’ RE THE STAR OF YOUR OWN TRAVEL DOCUMENTARY. THAT’ S HOW I FELT AS I LEFT CAPE TOWN TO CONQUER THE GARDEN ROUTE.
The little solar-powered cottage was pure magic – the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
SEDGEFIELD: BREAKFAST, ART, AND LOCAL CHARM
The next morning, we were off to Sedgefield, a town that feels like that eccentric cousin in the family. The one who always smells faintly of coffee and paint. Our team started at The Little Prince, a local gem where breakfast tastes like someone’ s grandma made it, but with flair. My Americano arrived, and I whispered,“ I could live here.” The bacon was crispy perfection, and the eggs – let’ s just say the chickens must be living their best free-range lives. After that, we wandered around town, discovering mosaic masterpieces scattered like Easter eggs. The locals were warm, chatty, and totally unbothered about
The destination? Knysna. The journey? A glorious mix of salty sea air, small towns, and moments that make you rethink city life.
FIRST STOP: GOUKAMMA NATURE RESERVE
By the time we hit Goukamma Nature Reserve, my shoulders had unclenched and my phone signal had vanished. The place is pure wilderness at its best. We kicked things off by kayaking down the Goukamma River, which is equal parts peaceful and a mild arm workout disguised as fun. Later, a hike to the beach sealed the deal.
There’ s something grounding about nature doing its thing while you do absolutely nothing but exist in it. Goukamma reminded me why the Western Cape is an overachiever when it comes to landscapes. We ended the evening sharing an incredible seafood platter at Rustic Beach Restaurant in the ever-popular Buffelsbaai. Despite discovering four unexpected eight-legged roommates in my bed, the stay was still unforgettable.
20 | SUMMER 2025 / 26 • rovesa. co. za