The Garden Route, South Africa

Skirting the short coastal stretch from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape, to Storm River in the Eastern Cape, it’s easy to understand why South Africa’s garden route is a popular road trip despite spanning less than 300km. Visit crescents of dreamy shores such as Robberg Beach, where you can stand at a vantage point and watch the raw power of Southern Right Whales performing acrobatics, and teaching their calves to do the same. Wander into the fringes of ancient indigenous forests teeming with native wildlife such as the brilliant green and red Knysna loury birds and possibly – if you’re lucky – a rare Knysna elephant; then venture inland to lapis lakes and lagoons, through to rolling hills and the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma mountain ranges. Base yourself in towns such as Knysna, Oudtshoorn, Plettenberg Bay and George along the way to delve into the intricacies of regional culture, but above all, appreciate the incredible range of ecological diversity and jawdropping landscapes – the Garden Route's name doesn't do it justice. Here, we take you on the Garden Route and beyond, starting at Port Elizabeth and with a few extra stunning stops through to Cape Town.