GPS Coordinates
South 33° 56' 51.58"
East 22° 26' 43.92"
Explore the area
Visitors are often disappointed when they realize that their itineraries have not allowed sufficient time to enjoy the many and varied attractions offered on the Garden Route.
There are the usual “mustn’t miss” tourist attractions, but we`ve decided to give an insight into some of the more unusual, wonderful attractions in the area. George is centrally situated for day-drives to Knysna, Mosselbay and Oudtshoorn.
Swartberg Pass and Meringspoort
To visit the quaint hamlet of Prince Albert you would travel over the Swartberg Mountains via the Swartberg pass. It is no wonder this pass is known as “the mother of all passes". The journey is breathtaking to say the least and equally so is the return trip via Meringspoort. The first leg of the trip takes you over the top of the mountain, whilst the return trip takes you through the gorge at the base of the mountain.
Whales and Dolphins
It is possible to see whales and dolphins along the Garden Route coastline all year round, but the best time is during our winter months (May to October).
From personal experience, this is one of the most exciting natural experiences.
Seeing the Southern Right whales at such close quarters and to race with the dolphins back to base.
Hiking, Forests and Beaches
Beaches to forest to mountains, you choose the spot. In the forest, next to the babbling stream, you can sit, unstressed by passing time, listen to the sound of silence and the forest birds while imagining the days gone by when elephants roamed wild in Knysna.
Take a walk to the little waterfall and cool down in the crisp waters. For the cyclist a number of cycle trails have been developed from easy to very tough. Hiking and biking can be done either alone or with a guide. Drupkelders, a secret spot takes you through the forest, at first slowly rising and then falling steeply down to the river where you cab swim in a huge natural pool.
The Garden Route has been blessed with beautiful sandy beaches and rugged coastline.
Spend a day exporing or sunbathing. Victoria Bay, (15 minutes from The Garden Villa) Herolds Bay and Glentana are all wonderful spots for sea swimming as well as the Wilderness beaches.
Fynbos
8600 plant species can be found in the area less than 3.5 times the size of the British Isles where only 1500 plant species exist. Many of these species i.e. Proteas , Ericas and Restios (grasses/reeds) grow wild on the roadside and in the hills.... hence the name “Garden Route”. This fynbos (meaning “fine bush”) region is ranked as one of the earth’s six floral kingdoms.
Game Viewing
Yes, the Garden Route has it all, an opportunity to game viewing with the chance of seeing the big 5 plus the rare black impala and many other varieties of antelope. All this with NO fear of malaria.
Birding
Go birding at one of the many bird hides. Over 250 species of birds can be found on the Garden Route.
George George is the gateway to nature's "Garden Route" and the ideal location from which to explore all of the attractions and adventure offerings of the entire region. Sixth oldest town in South-Africa it features an array of historical marvels, including The Transport Museum which tracks the modes of transport used throughout the years.
George (voted by IAGTO in 2007 as the "Best Golfing Destination in Africa and Middle East") boast numerous world-class courses, schools, driving ranges, short courses and fitment center. The Ernie Els and Fancourt Foundation is based in the area. George Airport services the entire region and operates flights to all the major cities in South Africa.
