Summer Fun Festival

We are heading into the festive season, time to take some time off, spend some quality time with family and friends and a popular holiday destination to do this in is the Garden Route, with many towns and interesting sites to explore.

I thought I’d give you a bit of a head start on your holiday plans and let you know which festivals and events are taking place over the festive season along the Garden Route. For starters, the Summer Sun Festival happens in Mossel Bay and runs from Tuesday 8 December right into the second week of 2010 (8 January 2010). It’s time to sizzle with summer and the Diaz Strand Hotel during this jam packed festival …

Expect non-stop entertainment on both inside and outside stages, including the ‘Life is a Highway Beach’ band, the SAB beer tent and loads more stalls. Prizes from Billabong, Rip Curl, Coca Cola, Die Burger and more are up for grabs for competitions ranging from a baby competition, Mr Strongman, Mr & Miss Sand Pebble, Miss Bikini, Mr Hunk with the top trophy going to Miss Diaz (final will be on 26 December 2009).

Summer Sun Festival

The Rob Louw Springbok Invitational team will be back in action on Monday 28 December 2009 to defend their title in the SPAR Hot Summer of Touch tournament. There are also a number of popular South African Artists who will be performing. And don’t forget about the “dawn of 2010 New Years ball” to welcome in the new year. If you’d like some more information then give Mimi Finestone a call on +27 (0)84 583-3144.

If you need to get in a that last bit of Christmas shopping for the unexpected guest or you just haven’t had time to get to the shops yet, then the Mossel Bay Christmas Market from Tuesday 15 to Thursday 17 December 2009 is your answer. Find unique handmade, farmed and baked gifts which will all be a fabulous addition to a Christmas stocking. Also on sale will be other stocking stuffers such as paintings, jewellery, beaded gifts, clothing and much more. The markets will be held at the Mossel Bay South NG Church Hall, which is the corner of 15th and 17th Avenues or you can contact Cecile on +27 (0)82 224-3865 for more information.

Herolds Bay Festival

How about spending your time just before Christmas day at the Herolds Bay Beach Festival, held on 23 December 2009 on the Herolds Bay beach? This festival has now been running for many years and you will find lots to do here. Take part in any number of their sporting activities, touch rugby, surfing, flag sprinting and more.

Children’s competitions, promotions and an after party or if you are really feeling beach ready and body confident why not enter the Miss Bikini pageant? For more information you can contact Terra Firma Events on +27 (0)44 874-2015.

Plettenberg Bay is host to the annual Kurland International Polo Test on Tuesday 29 December. The polo season begins in December and runs until April attracting a number of international patrons, professionals and those who just love the game. This test is a head to head between South Africa and England and is heading towards being rated one of the top test matches in the polo world. For more information on how to attend this test contact Clive Peddle on +27 (0)44 534-8786.

These are only a few of the events happening along the Garden Route. If you are heading up that way over this festive season let us know how you’ll be spending your time by posting your comments below.

Useful Links:
Garden Route Events
Garden Route Attractions
Things to Do in Garden Route
Garden Route Hotels
Garden Route Accommodation

Otter Trail Photo by Jomilo75 onFlickr.com who says: “As you can see, the trail literally runs along the coast. For much of the trail you are following painted paw prints on the rocks as opposed to an actual trail”.

Still keen? Why wouldn’t you be? This hike has been touted as a life-changing experience. It’s not often you get to put your physical endurance to the test like this, And as far as introspection goes, the five days and four nights are bound to teach you a little bit more about who you – and your fellow hikers – are.

Your trail accommodation consists of four overnight stops with two six-sleeper huts each. Mattresses are provided for the triple bunks, and the amenities stretch to a table and a toilet, but everything else – sleeping bags, food, pots and gas burners for cooking – you’ll have to carry with you. Braai facilities are available, and firewood is left along the trail (to add to your load) but it’s strongly advised to bring the aforementioned gas cookers along too. Water is available throughout the route from the reserve streams and from rainwater tanks at overnight stops (don’t rely on these if rainfall has been sparse), though purification tablets might be necessary if your system’s not used to roughing it.

If you were wondering about the trail’s title, it’s named for the Cape Clawless Otter, a species that occurs in and around the area. And it’s easy to guess why this particular name was chosen – the trail is most well known for its river crossings. Yes, that’s plural. Be prepared to get wet, there are eleven crossings in total. Two of the larger rivers (Elandsbos and Bloukrans) are really only manageable at low tide, so you need to plan ahead and keep an eye on tide schedules and rainfall measures.

Another Otter Trail Photo by Jomilo75 onFlickr.com (Creative Commons License)

But don’t worry, because time to plan is one thing you’ll have plenty of – the immense popularity of this trail means that it’s not unheard of to have to book a year to sixteen months in advance. Bookings can be made through the South African National Parks. (contact details below).

Heavy packs, steep inclines, long all-day slogs, the river crossings and more than a little rock scrambling preclude anyone under 12 or over 65 from doing the trail, and for anyone in-between a reasonable degree of fitness is required (you’re obviously looking at more than a walk in the park).

But whether you do it for the incredible scenery, the physical challenge or simply the post-hike bragging rights, the Otter Trail should definitely be high up on your hike-before-I-die list.

Otter Trail Reservations:
Telephone: +27 (0)12 426-5111
Fax: +27 (0)12 343-0905
Visit the SANP website for bookings – Otter Trail Bookings

Photographs:
View a Flickr Slideshow of photographs taken on the Otter Trail. (3214 photos tagged Otter Trail!)

Outeniqua Powervan

For anyone travelling through the scenic George / Knysna area, one of the attractions is, or always has been, the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe, one of the last remaining steam trains in Africa. However, many will be as disappointed as we were to learn that the “Choo-Tjoe”, as she is affectionately known, has not run since June 2009.

So what does a family with two train-mad young boys do, to stem the disappointment? We were lucky to learn from the Transport Museum that something called the Outeniqua Powervan was running in its stead.

Now steam, it is not, but train it is, with only two cars or carriages,  seating only 12 people each, and powered up the railway pass by a ‘motorised trolley’. So we made our booking, which you need to do, and prepared for our departure at 11h00. (A second run had been added at 14h00, since it was holiday season.)

The railway pass travels parallel at times, to the old Montague Pass, and the train powers its way up to the highest point. The journey is accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, who narrates details from the resident flora, to the history of ox wagons traversing the hazardous pass. At points on the upward journey you can view all three passes; the old dirt road, the railway pass and the majestic new road. The upward route ends at the point at which the railway pass and old Montagu Pass meet – the old road is worth a leisurely drive on an alternate day.

On the upward journey one passes through six little tunnels, which were a sheer delight for our two young boys! At times the pass is so narrow that you think you are going to brush the rock face on either side! The railway passes through areas of forest and fynbos, including an abundance of king proteas, culminating in spectacular views at the summit.

The return leg brings you back through the six tunnels, with the cars travelling in reverse order, offering passengers an alternate view. About halfway down the pass we stopped at a picnic site, to enjoy our packed lunches and take in the surrounding scenery. The Powervan descends back into the Outeniqua Transport Museum in George, which houses an array of steam locomotives and carriages from days gone by. Save some time either before or after the journey, to explore the amazing history of travel in South Africa, including a fascinating photo gallery of steam trains.

The two hour experience, with an additional half-hour for lunch, costs R95 for adults and R75 for children; a worthwhile way to spend a morning. An alternative for the active at heart, is to take a mountain bike with you on the up journey, and cycle the 15km back down the Montague Pass into George and to the railway museum.

The railway line between George and Knysna was declared an officially preserved line in 1992. With the Southern Cape storms of 2006, the line was extensively damaged and closed for reconstruction. The Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe has at various times resumed operations along the scenic route between George and Hartenbos, and then extended onto Mossel Bay, but a lack of funding and maintenance to the line has again resulted in its closure. The Powervan however is an interesting and worthwhile alternative.

Useful Links:
Garden Route Attractions
Things to Do in the Garden Route
Garden Route Hotels
Garden Route Accommodation

Outeniqua Country Hop

One could be forgiven for thinking that the ‘country hop’ is some sort of quaint rural dance, but the Outeniqua country hop in the Garden Route is a tourist route, initiated by a group of local women to help put local trade in and around George on the map. The clever play on the term ‘hop’ was inspired by the abundance of hops growing in the area, a plant used in the manufacturing of beer, and unique to this region in South Africa.

We picked up signs for the Hop on the R404, as we drove out of George. With two young boys in tow, I was taken with the icon of the tractor, which accompanies the hop signs, since a tractor ride in any guise would provide my boys with a lot of excitement! The icon however appeared to be more of a symbol than a reality, although clearly much of the beautiful scenery through which one passes is working farmland.

Red Berry Farm

Our first stop was the Red Berry strawberry farm, which is located in an area called Geelhoutboom. Having been strawberry picking in the greater Cape Town and surrounds, I did not think that this was an activity in which we would partake. However my six-year-old was clearly keen and so he and his father, tub in hand, (they measure by tub size rather than mass here) popped off in search of those red berries.

My younger son was quickly attracted to the lovely playground activities and we managed to fill the picking time quite easily, by exploring jungle gyms and feeding the resident bunnies. What makes this strawberry farm different is its wonderful restaurant and garden area, which Cape Town farms seem to lack, and a place to munch those hard picked strawberries. I noted that many elected to order scones and cream to accompany their pickings! The shop also boasts a number of strawberry related products from jams to yoghurts, coulis and juices.

Father and son returned very pleased with their harvest and the strawberries were indeed as tasty as they looked! The location definitely filled up towards lunch time and it is clearly a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Visiting on a Friday we noticed preparations underway for a weekend strawberry festival. However given the size of marquees and anticipated activity, I was glad that we had visited on a less frenetic day!

Silver Lily Cheese Farm

On our way out I noted that we could also visit a mushroom farm, which I am sure would have provided an interesting insight into the growth of mushrooms, should I have been more partial to the taste of these little fungi!

Our next stop was the Silver Lily cheese farm, a Dutch style farm situated on the Geelhoutboom road. A tour was on the go for the resident school children, which includes the process of cheese making, but we popped around the back to the tasting room, to see what was on offer.

Cheese tasting can be accompanied by a glass of wine, and a variety of mainly hard cheeses is on offer, including a number of herb, garlic and smoked varieties. The cheeses are certainly not cheap, but tasty, and it is encouraging to support a local supplier.

Village of Herold

The Outeniqua Hop begins in Herold’s Bay, a rather upmarket seaside cove – if property prices were anything to go by – and passes through Geelhoutboom, the location of the strawberry and cheese farms, to ascend the Montagu Pass, to the little village of Herold, which boasts its own wine farm.

(There’s a beautiful map by the way on http://www.outeniquacountryhop.co.za)

Hops is abundant on the route and grows in creeper form, scrambling up rather complex string structures. The creepers grow at an alarming rate of 100 mm a day and the cones are harvested during February and March.

I suspect that during this time, tractors would be in abundance!

Useful Links:
George Attractions
Things to Do in George
George Hotels
George Accommodation

Bengal Tiger

I can’t say I have ever seen lions, cheetahs, leopard, caracal and tigers all ‘in one sitting’, and I have definitely not ever seen Bengal tigers, jaguar, pumas or serval cats, other than in pictures! Well at Jukani Wildlife Park you get to see them all, admittedly with a bit of coaxing from the guide and her meat bucket!

Jukani lies just outside Mossel Bay, with indicating signs off the N2 en route to Cape Town. On entering the Park, having paid an admission fee of R280 for two adults and two children, it is clear that the facility is well maintained and each enclosure appears to be of a suitable size for the creatures it houses. All of Jukani’s animals are wild, though many have been bred in captivity. The park exists to preserve the different species, and in some cases has taken in animals that have been abused and mistreated.

Leopard at Jukani

We joined up with a guide who was working her way along the enclosures, discussing each animal in turn and trying to coax them to come out of their hides so that we could get a better view. Some, like the tigers were happy to oblige, but others, such as the black leopard, were a rare and fleeting sight.

Each cat has its own special history and it appears that the two Bengal tigers, Juka and Shanti, were hand-reared by hosts, Karen and Jurg. (Apparently Juka had colic, an ailment I thought only affected the human race!) My only reservation is the bridging of the tenuous, and sometimes dangerous divide, between a wild and a hand-reared animal, and am never convinced that man can enter enclosures with these cats, no matter how much healthy respect exists. Clearly this couple is committed to conservation and the preservation of these species, but I cannot get used to white lions in enclosures, side by side with cheetahs, and my wish was that these magnificent beasts might have remained in the wild.

Leopard at Jukani

The staff are quick to caution that none of the animals are tame and ask that children not run within the Park. I could see why, when both the cheetah and the lion, whose giant paw easily equalled the size of my son’s head, kept a beady eye on my three-year-old toddler as he passed. He was definitely viewed as potential prey!

We paid our visit during the morning and tours take place between 09h00 and 16h00. We were encouraged to return for the 16h00 feeding, but I was intent on maintaining a safe distance between my toddler and the rather obvious association with food!

Contact Details:
Jukani Predator Park, N2, Mossel Bay, Garden Route.
Telephone: +27 (0)44 698-2004
Website: http://www.jukani.co.za/

Useful Links:
Garden Route Attractions
Things to Do in Garden Route
Mossel Bay Accommodation
Garden Route Accommodation

Featherbed Nature Reserve

Nestled on the undeveloped western headland of the Knysna lagoon sits the piece of untouched paradise known as Featherbed Private Nature Reserve – the Garden Route’s premier eco-tourism spot.

The lagoon is more accurately termed a river estuary, filled by five freshwater rivers that flow out of the Outeniqua Mountains to meet the saltwater of the Indian Ocean. It’s watched over by the forbidding sandstone cliffs known as the Knysna Heads. Ecologically speaking, the area is very important, home to indigenous flora and endangered fauna – hence the necessity of its preservation and its status as a South African National Heritage site …

Featherbed Nature Reserve

The reserve takes its name from Featherbed Bay, a tranquil spot off the river mouth where ships would weigh anchor so sailors could have a peaceful night’s sleep after months at sea. In comparison to rough nights on the ocean, the night in the sheltered bay was like sleeping on a featherbed – hence the name. The western headland and its reserve at the river mouth are equally peaceful, in comparison with the commercially developed eastern Head.

Featherbed has a Professor JLB Smith to thank for its pristine condition, the same erudite scholar who discovered the coelacanth, a fish previously believed to have been extinct for 180 million years. The Professor purchased and preserved the first piece of land that would eventually become Featherbed, a legacy continued after his death by his son, William Smith (the well-known Learning Channel guru).

Featherbed Nature Reserve

Fancy visiting this oasis of unspoiled wilderness? The Featherbed Company offers a daily, four-hour tour, beginning with a half hour lagoon cruise departing from the Featherbed Ferry Terminus off Waterfront Drive in Knysna. You’ll be driven by 4×4 through the reserve to the top of the mountain, where you’ll alight and indulge in an easy two-kilometre meander back down through the Milkwood forests and along a scenic coastal path, stopping at viewpoints and ancient sea caves along the way.

All that walking’s sure to give you an appetite. Upon returning to sea level you’ll be treated to a scrumptious buffet lunch at the reserve’s Forest Restaurant, perched on the lagoon’s shore in the shade of the abundant Milkwood trees, before heading back across the lagoon to civilisation.

Featherbed Nature Reserve

Featherbed may not be a game reserve – sorry, no big five here; any big game was hunted out decades ago by timber-hungry woodcutters – but it does have a few critters you should watch out for while traversing its forested paths and fynbos-strewn landscapes.

Apart from ubiquitous bush buck and a nocturnal bush pig or so, keep an eye out for tortoises, beautiful Knysna loeries, tiny blue endangered duiker (the smallest antelope in the world), the super-rare black African oyster catcher and, in the bay, dolphins, whales and the endangered Knysna seahorse. Not to mention the indigenous flora that gives this spot its awe-inspiring beauty.

Featherbed Nature Reserve

As well as the tour, the Featherbed Company also operates several lagoon cruises. Enjoy four-star dining aboard the unique Paddle Cruiser, or aboard The John Den, a luxury pleasure cruiser, or take a quick(er) spin around the lagoon and into the Heads themselves on the rivercat Three Legs.

For an outside perspective, the company’s luxury catamaran yacht, Heads Explorer, will take you (weather conditions permitting) past the Heads and onto the open ocean. All of the vessels are equipped to provide you with cash bars, snack bars, a la carte menus or buffet meals, as well as catering for functions.

Speaking of which … tying the knot? Why not make a lasting memory while floating on the lagoon or within the reserve itself, either on the beach, the blue water lapping at your feet, or under the canopy of the ancient Milkwoods?

Useful Links:
Featherbed Nature Reserve Web Site
Garden Route Attractions
Garden Route Hotels
Things to Do in Garden Route

The third photo shows a jumper on his way down and the fourth and last shows the entrance to the “experience of a lifetime”, the Bloukrans Bridge (not sure if the pub is for celebrating afterwards or to get some stupid courage beforehand – I know I would need both and then some!).

Bloukrans River Bridge photographs -  By and © Iain Gibbin

Useful Links:
To try this yourself see Bloukrans Bridge Bungy Jump for contact details. Also see Things to Do in the Garden Route for info on what to do and Extreme Adventure in the Garden Route for things to get your heart pumping!

See more photographs in this series at Bloukrans Bridge Photographs.

Paragliding in Wilderness

The Garden Route is treated as a province in its own right there is so much to do and see. It is not only one of the most scenic and possibly most visited parts of South Africa, but the Garden Route is also high on the adventure seeker’s list of places to visit because of the immediate access to incredible, seldom over-explored nooks and crannies on beaches, forests and mountains.

The Garden Route is described as a ’secret place’ and for many it is just that. This slender stretch of coast manages to remain wild and something of a garden of Eden with infinite forested areas, rivers that tumble from mountains to wild rocky beaches that refuse to conform to the ‘expected’ sedate, to-be-tanned-on expanses so many prefer.

From extreme adventure day trips to mildly adventurous, pursuing an adrenaline rush takes on new proportions in the Garden Route … Lying between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth (that’s the rough version anyhow, actually its official boundaries keep swelling as more and more of the little towns situated along this route add themselves and their undiscovered secrets) the Garden Route offers spectacular natural beauty and outdoor adventures.

Bloukrans Bridge

Bungy jump off the highest jump in the world:
You’re spoilt for choice here as you can choose between the Bloukrans bridge – the highest commercially operated bungy jump in the world – and the Gouritz bridge. The 216 metre jump from Bloukrans bridge lies about 40 kilometres east of Plettenberg Bay on the N2 highway off a span arch bridge.

This is the ultimate thrill for those after adrenaline highs off the top of the arch above the Bloukrans River. For those after something slightly different, the newest gizmo is a 200 metre cable slide (foefie slides for South Africans), known as the ‘flying fox’, for those not up to the bungy jump or those wanting to do something as part of a group.

The Gouritz Bungy jump is tame by comparison at 65 metres, but no less of a fall for those seeking adventure. It is a great introduction for those who haven’t done this before. The bridge lies over the Gouritz River about 35 kilometres west of Mossel Bay along the N2.

Contact Face Adrenaline for Bloukrans Bungy on +27 (0)42 281-1458 or Gouritz Bungy & Bridgeswing on +27 (0)44 697-7001. Both are open daily from 09h00 to 17h00.

Storms River Tubing

Abseiling and blackwater tubing at Storms River:
Storms River mouth is one of the most beautiful parts of the Garden Route. You are surrounded by natural forest with some of the world’s biggest trees, some of them thousands of years old, mountains and magnificent fynbos – all wrapped in one.  It’s also one of the ultiimate kloofing experiences and abseiling here is an all time high. Abseiling here is a combination of rope ladders and rappelling down over 30 metres of solid cliff face – you can’t do much better, and there is incredible scenery to boot!

The Tsitsikamma, which means ‘place of many waters’ aptly describes the exhilaration of floating down Storms River on rubber rings, called black water tubing (the ‘black’ describes the colour of the water rather than the black rings) all the way to the river mouth. While this might seem chilled, there are sections where you float down the gorge surrounded by 100 foot cliffs, and there are a couple of jumps into the gorge along the way that take a bit of nerve to carry out. But the worst part is the beginning when you climb down to the starting point.

Contact Djembe Backpackers on +27 (0) 42 281-1842
or Mild2Wild Adventure Centre on +27 (0)42 281-1051 or +27 (0) 84 877 7100

Quad-biking

Quad bike the Garden Route:
You need no experience to wind through mountain terrain on a quad bike and tours can range from 3 kilometres to two day quad adventures that cross all types of terrain – flat, hilly, grassy, rocky, muddy and rough. There are even quad rides at night for the nocturnally adventurous!

Contact: Quad Garden Route on +27 (0)72 303-9011.

Paraglide in the Wilderness:
Lying between Kaaimans River and the Goukamma Nature Reserve, the Wilderness is a beautiful area with vast stretches of beach, a huge placid lagoon and incredible tranquillity. Paragliding here is an experience, and there are around 24 different flying sites easily within an hour’s drive of the little Wilderness village.

Contact Cloudbase Paragliding on +27 (0)44 877-1414 or +27 (0)82 777-8474.

Skydive in Mossel Bay

Skydive in Mossel Bay:
Skydive Mossel Bay offers you the experience of a lifetime! Do a tandem skydive from 10 000ft strapped to an experienced tandem instructor and enjoy the thrill of free fall on your 1st jump! No experience required.

After a short briefing we strap you into a tandem harness and you are ready start your adventure. 1st, we ascent to altitude in the aircraft and for 20 minutes you get a fantastic scenic flight over the bay area. Then it’s time to jump out!

Before you know it, the tandem master has you out of the aircraft and in free fall. We’ll free fall at 200 – 290 kph for up to 40 seconds. While we “Body Surf” the wind, we can do controlled turns, speed diving, and burn up the sky.

Contact Skydive Mossel Bay on +27 (0)82 824-8599.

Whale Watching

Go caving in the Cango Caves:
Set in the heart of the Little Karoo, just over the Outeniqua Mountains from George, might sound like a tame visit and admittedly they are one of the best known and most visited tourist caves. However, there is an extensive system of tunnels and chambers that go on for four kilometres or more, even if only a quarter of this is open to visitors. The ‘Adventure Tour’ will have your crawling through narrow passages and climbing steep rock formations with only a few small lights to guide you – trust me, adrenaline pumps when you’re in a passage just under 30 cm high!

Contact: There are various operators (See Cango Caves Tours for an operator to assist you) or you can call the Caves directly on +27 (0)44 272-7410.

Get close and personal with whales at Plett:
If first-hand encounters with whales from the side of a boat doesn’t do it for you, then kayaking out in the ocean with nothing between you and a whale but your, um, kayak, most certainly will!

Contact: Ocean Adventures on +27 (0)44 533-4897.

Useful Links:
For more adventure options in the Garden Route  see the following:
Extreme Sports in the Garden Route
Sports & Leisure in the Garden Route

If the above options are too extreme or don’t appeal to you, see Things to Do in the Garden Route where you will find many options ranging from sight seeing, water sports, hikes and walks, horse riding, cruises, scenic flights … and plenty more options to keep you entertained … Enjoy! And don’t forget, book your Garden Route accommodation via SA-Venues.com – No commissions, no service fees – you Deal Direct and Save!

Mushrooms on a Log – By and © Carmen Goodrich (South Africa)

Teniqua Treetops

It is not often that one is invited to sleep, eat and wash high up in a wild, indigenous forest canopy, surrounded by mountains, bird song, butterflies and, well not much else really. But the tented tree house resort set in the foothills of the Outeniqua Mountains right in the heart of the Garden Route does just that.

Not only does this pretty, tented treehouse destination lie roughly 23 kilometres outside of the equally attractive village of Sedgefield, but by all accounts a visit here is ‘quietly life-changing’. It is also one of few truly eco-friendly venues.

The creators of Teniqua Treetops emphasise that they have gone to great lengths to preserve the peace and quiet of the natural environment, have used natural materials in the construction of the tree houses, and have concerned themselves with minimising their energy use and impact on the environment.

They have incorporated a dry toilet system, pipe river water from the Karatara River for washing, whilst drinking water is harvested from rain (both sources are tested and potable); they process their own grey and black water and use no chemicals when washing or cleaning.

Despite, or because of, this there is a beauty to this part of the world that is totally unspoilt by the presence of the the tree houses. Bird and beast behave as though the canopies remain undisturbed and giant 1000-year old milkwood trees, towering yellowwoods, candlewoods and saffrons form a treasure trove of trees that envelope the resort in a private world of leafy, distilled sunshine and effortless harmony.

There is a magic element to the distribution of the treehouses, some of which are multi-level, or have romantic glassed showers, loos with a view and pretty decks from which one can simply sit and absorb the forest views, undisturbed. For those with children, there is plenty at ground level to provide entertainment, and a huge jungle gym, trampoline, swimming pools as well as plenty of hiking and river and rock  hopping are par for the course.

Teniqua Treetops is self-catering, easily provided for by the famous Saturday morning craft and produce market in Sedgefield, and a quick detour to the supermarket for essentials for which the market does not cater.

Useful Links:

• Teniqua Treetops
• Teniqua Treetops Rates
• Teniqua Treetops Guest Reviews

Knysna Oyster Festival

This year marks the 26th anniversary celebration of one of the most popular annual events in the Garden Route of the Western Cape. The Pick ‘n Pay Knysna Oyster Festival was conceptualised by the late local business man, Dick Ginsberg. Its purpose was to entice visitors to Knysna during winter and it has without a doubt achieved this.

The festival kicks off with the Miss Pearl Beauty Pageant on Thursday 2 July 2009 and runs until Sunday 12 July 2009. These ten days are jam packed with more than 100 events taking place, over 200 000 oysters being consumed and sport and entertainment for everyone. The main sporting events of the festival are the Pick n Pay Cape Times Knysna Forest Marathon and the Pick n Pay Weekend Argus Rotary Knysna Cycle Tour.

Knysna Oyster Festival

The Knysna Forest Marathon is always a great success and participants can take place in either the 42.2km full marathon or the 21.1km half-marathon. This is a favourite on the running calendar. And for the cycling enthusiast The Pick ‘n Pay Weekend Argus Rotary Knysna Cycle Tour offers something for every cyclist, be it the full 85km marathon, the 42km half or the 15km fun ride.

For those of you who are sports spectators there are many events to keep you entertained. Live music and entertainment takes place on a daily basis, there are also art exhibitions, flea markets and the Night of 1 000 Pictures (two-night exhibition of photography, illustrations and paintings to raise funds for the Knysna Hospice by local artists).

Kiddies are also catered for with various sporting competitions, face painting, art and cooking classes and much more. Pick ‘n Pay is hosting a 3 day Pavement Art Competition for children (Monday 6 to Wednesday 8 July) where each child wins a prize for taking part and all children and teenagers under 17  are able to participate by creating a work of art in charcoal and chalk anywhere on the paved area of Woodmill Lane Shopping Centre.

Knysna Oyster Festival

To honour the long-standing tradition of their participation in the Oyster Festival, the South African Navy and their internationally acclaimed Band will entertain one and all during the street parade and their live concert at the Waterfront.

It wouldn’t be an Oyster Festival without oysters and this year is no different. And some of the most popular events are the oyster eating competition, the annual oyster-shucking (opening) competition and the Pick n Pay Oyster & Wine Mardi Gras - which is a fantastic evening of oysters and wine tasting.

Knysna Oyster Festival

The Tabasco Hotspots serve oysters naked, cooked or garnished throughout the festival. Some of the delicacies on offer are Firefly smoked oysters with savoury black sesame seed ice-cream, served with Tellicherry pepper biscuits from the Firefly Eating House. While Sirocco has whipped a variety of flavoursome salsa’s to spice up your oyster, with their Vodka Chutney a firm favourite.

If you haven’t already made plans to make your way to the 2009 Knysna Oyster Festival be sure to mark your calendar well in advance for next year’s festival. The memories will be treasured for years to come.

Useful Links:
Visit the official Knysa Oyster Festival Website for the full programme: http://www.oysterfestival.co.za/
Find destination information and resources for planning your stay in Knysna at:
Knysna Attractions
Knysna Accommodation
Knysna Hotels
Things to Do in Knysna

Game Drive

Have you dreamt of getting married in a natural setting amongst wildlife? Have you pictured treating your wedding guests to an exciting game viewing drive but you can’t quite afford to get all your guests to travel to the Kruger National Park? Then the Garden Route Game Lodge’s new Wedding Venue may be just the place for your dream wedding.

Nestled on the edge of a breathtaking valley, Serengeti’s and the adjoining Labola Chapel provides a unique and romantic African setting for you to  celebrate your special occasion. Architecturally designed to blend in with the surrounding landscape, the stylish new wedding venue at the Garden Route Game Lodge has been carefully constructed using natural materials such as stone, thatch, wood and glass and brings together the elements of earth, fire and water with taste and style.

Wedding Venue

The new venue is equipped to accommodate 120 guests but can seat up to 200 guests with a dance floor. The expansive wrap around wooden decks allow your guests to witness the sunset over the majestic Langeberg Mountains and the star studded African night sky while the Serengeti Bar and Lounge are for your exclusive use. The venue is totally climate controlled throughout the year with 3 fireplaces for chilly winter evenings.

Couples have the option of making use of the Labola Chapel or may opt for an open air ceremony on the wooden deck overlooking the valley below. Complimentary overnight accommodation in the honeymoon suite is included in the venue hire for the bridal couple to spend their wedding night.

For additional information about having your wedding here Telephone +27 (0)28 735-1200 or visit Garden Route Game Lodge.

Useful Links:
For planning your wedding in the Garden Route:
Garden Route Weddings
Garden Route Wedding Services
Garden Route Wedding Photographers
South Africa Wedding Venues

Mossel Bay

Mossel Bay was the stopping place of Bartholomew Diaz on his historic voyage from Portugal, around the Cape of Good Hope, en route to the east, and still bears many indelible reminders of that epic voyage, including the museum, which houses a replica of his vessel, and the name of one of the most popular beaches.

Located on the N2 highway, halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay is a popular seaside destination. Another piece of history is preserved in this small town, in the form of the Post Office tree, the first organized postal service in the country, used by subsequent sea travelers passing by to send and receive messages to loved ones in Europe on the next passing ship. Other historical attractions worth a visit are the St Blaize lighthouse, a manned lighthouse built in 1864 and the Great Trek museum which chronicles the epic journey by early settlers at Hartenbos. But what about the present? Visitors to Mossel Bay will find there is lots to do besides exploring historical sites …

Enjoying one of the mildest climates in South Africa, as well as pristine white beaches and clear blue water, the opportunities to sunbathe, swim, and enjoy one of the many water sports on offer are limitless. The tidal pool at the Point offers another way to cool down, or take a short drive to nearby Klein Brakrivier to swim in the river, take a riverboat trip, or just have a picnic on the banks, at one of the many resorts located here. Anglers too are spoilt for choice, with sections of the coast being too rocky for sunbathers, but perfect for fishing. The area also boasts a recently completed casino at Pinnacle Point, for those visitors who are feeling lucky, or perhaps a game of golf at the 18 hole Mossel Bay golf course, or the 9 hole Boggomsbaai course.

Gouritz Bridge bungee

For adrenaline junkies, the fun starts even before you reach town, with the 65m high Gouritz Bridge bungee jumping experience located just outside town on the N2 highway from Cape Town. If that still does not satisfy the need for adventure, there are quad bike trails at Zingela Indlela Game farm, shark cage diving, parasailing and deep sea fishing, or abseiling and kayaking at the famous Diaz Beach resort.

For nature lovers there is hiking at Schaapplaas with a chance to view Khoi San rock art, preserved on the rocky outcrops from centuries ago, as well as 4 x 4 trails in the Outeniqua Mountains and mountain biking on the Bonniedale nature farm. For something a little out of the ordinary, and a real taste of indigenous culture, there are township tours on offer in the local Kwanaonqaba township, where visits to a sangoma and shebeen and the sampling traditional cuisine are all available.

With all these Things to Do in Mossel Bay and more available, combined with excellent restaurant choices, Mossel Bay accommodation options to suit any taste and budget, and a relaxed, friendly, small town atmosphere, it’s easy to see why Mossel Bay is such a popular choice.

Related Pages:
Mossel Bay Attractions
Things to Do in Mossel Bay
Mossel Bay Accommodation
Mossel Bay Self Catering
Mossel Bay Guest Houses

Knysna Lagoon

Note to self: When next going away on a romantic holiday getaway, make sure you go somewhere without baboons

. Coming back to the tree-top cabin that I had romantically, thoughtfully and spontaneously rented outside Knysna, my girlfriend and I found our food supplies decimated.

Not only eaten, but flung around the room, smeared on the walls and generally treated with complete and utter disdain. It looked like we had been the victims of a wanton act of animal terrorism, however the staff assured us that ‘this was normal.’ Well, maybe for some, but not for us. However despite this little bit of primate vandalism, we managed to get on with our holiday and ended up throughly enjoying Knysna and the surrounds.

Knysna is located in the heart of the scenic garden route, nearing the border of the Western and Eastern Cape Regions lies the town of Knysna. Founded in 1804, by George Rex, the original owner of the farm that later became the town of Knysna, and often voted as South Africa’s favorite holiday destination by locals, the town is a curious mix of old world charm, wealth and elegance, and nature loving hippy communities. The main street, lined with small boutiques and shops, is actually a part of the N2 highway, which passes directly through the center of the town en route to the Eastern Cape and beyond.

Reached from the Cape Town direction by a narrow causeway, and built on a natural lagoon, virtually enclosed by the famed Knysna heads, this small town is bound on all sides by hills and mountains, covered with indigenous vegetation. Taking advantage of this lagoon setting are the houseboat operators, who offer these leisure vessels on lease to the public. Renting a houseboat ensures both a unique accommodation experience, and an opportunity to explore the town and surrounds in an entirely different way.

Knysna

A part of the migratory route of the Southern Right and other whale species, it is possible to view these marine mammals during the months of August and September, while dolphins are year round visitors. For thrillseekers, options abound, with everything from paragliding over the coastline, abseiling and skydiving, to scuba diving and tree top canopy tours within easy reach of the town.

In times gone by, the area was home to large family groups of elephants. These herds have since disappeared, however, a visit to the elephant sanctuary will give visitors the opportunity to view these majestic beasts in their natural element. Another sanctuary that will attract animal lovers is the wolf sanctuary, located on the N2 heading out of town, towards Plettenberg Bay.

Along this same stretch of highway, several local crafters and artists have set up studios and galleries that are well worth a visit. For lovers of the good life, a visit planned during the annual Oyster Festival will provide opportunities to sample these locally farmed delicacies, however, during the year, these and other delights are still available from various eateries located in the harbour and elsewhere in town.

The harbour area is also home to most of Knysna’s nightlife, with several bars, restaurants and clubs where patrons can enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset over the heads. Golf enthusiasts will find the area a treat, with several world-class courses on offer both in Knysna itself, and in neighbouring towns. Fancourt in George is within easy reach, and Simola, Pezula and the Knysna golf course are all located in the town itself.

The Outeniqua Choo Choo offers another experience unique to the area. This old-fashioned steam train hugs the coastline along its route to nearby George, and offers views of otherwise inaccessible or difficult to reach, yet nonetheless beautiful, unspoiled sections of coast.

If you are looking for a destination where you have the choice of slowing down and taking it easy, or where you can indulge your inner adrenaline seeker, Knysna is well worth considering. Just watch out for baboons.

Useful Links:
For more destination info see:
Knysna Accommodation
Knysna Attractions
Garden Route Accommodation

The Otter Trail

When they say you have to be ‘reasonably fit’ to be able to do the Otter Trail it means you better be able to carry all your equipment across rugged terrain for five days. However, as any serious hiker will confirm, the Otter Trail is simply the most glorious hiking trail in South Africa. The Otter Trail is for people who really want to hike and enjoy the extraordinary landscape as they go along, who want to immerse themselves in beauty and do not mind getting sweaty and having aching muscles at the end of each day. In other words if you spend more time thinking about what outfit to wear to go hiking than actually hiking itself, maybe this isn’t the one for you.

You are going to have five days and four nights of nature cramming all of her sights, scents and sounds into your body and mind. You are going to be so tired each night that’ll you’ll sleep like the dead only to do it again the next morning. But one thing is certain: you will go to sleep exhilarated …

The Otter Trail runs through the Tsitsikamma National Park near Plettenberg Bay on the East Coast and is well organized by the National Parks Board and they make it as convenient as possible for hikers. The trail is clearly marked with a blue otter signs and painted otter spoor on rocky outcrops as guide.

The Otter Trail starts out from the Storms River Rest Camp and you will walk along 42 kilometres of stunning coastline, through rugged terrain with the ocean one side and the indigenous rainforest inland. You will cross 11 rivers and you may have to swim the Bloukrans River on day four, so remember a waterproof bag for your equipment. On the fifth day you will reach the end of the trail in Nature’s Valley. There are two overnight huts for each of the four nights you will spend on the trail with bunk beds and mattresses, cooking facilities and a toilet for each hut. You want to wash or bath? Bring a cake of biodegradable soap and jump into the nearest stream; nature provides.

The daily hikes are not too long, the exception is day four with a 14-kilometer hike, so take your time, don’t rush or you will miss out on so much to see and do. Sit on the cliffs and watch the whales out at sea and the dolphins coming right into the breakers. Snorkel in the rock pools and take breaks to watch the birds in the treetops. Drink in the sights of stunning beaches, majestic rock formations and waterfalls as you hike one of the most beautiful places on earth. Go home with aching muscles and scraped knees but with a soul filled to bursting; that is after all what you came for.

Links to Related Pages:
SAN Parks Board – The Otter Trail
SA-Venues – The Otter Trail
The Garden Route
Eastern Cape Hiking Trails
Hiking in South Africa

Birds of Eden

Birds of Eden is a unique and enormous 2 hectare dome which spans over a gorge of lush indigenous forest. It is, in fact, the World’s largest free flight bird sanctuary dome. The nets are placed rather high in the air to allow the birds to fly around freely. They are protected from any unwanted predators.

The decision to develop Birds of Eden stemmed from the need to create a safe environment in which to release a large collection of free-flight African birds and miniature monkeys. This gorgeous dome is home to over 100 species of vibrant birds including a few endangered species. More than 2000 birds habitate this dome.

When we entered the dome, it is as if you have literally entered paradise. It is absolutely exquisite! We were welcomed by 2 African Grey Parrots. These gorgeous birds seemed to be keenly interested in us! These birds have become so accustomed to humans that they like to amuse themselves with them. It felt rather wonderful having birds fly on your shoulder and arms. Yet, while there were some that were friendly and leisurely sitting on our arms, there was another African Grey Parrot trying to bite our feet and following us wherever we went!

Birds of Eden

In Birds of Eden, prepare to be completely swept away. You could spend anywhere between 4-7 hours in this spectacular place. The wooden walkways lead you through the lush forest, over a river, under a waterfall and eventually to a dam where the geese and ducks are prolific.

Just like Monkeyland, there are numerous wooden platters of food which the birds are attracted to. They are rather difficult to photgraph as they are incredibly fast. When we sat on the benches, the birds came near us to cure their curiosity.

It is truly spectacular to be in a paradisiacal environment where hundreds of birds are prolific in the area and are not bothered about a human’s presence. Some decide to introduce themselves whereas others follow you and watch from a short distance.

Birds of Eden

After a few hours, we arrived at a dam and pond where hundreds of gorgeous ducks and their little ones, flamingo’s and many other tall birds roam around. There is a restaurant on the waters where we enjoyed refreshing drinks. You can also buy special food and feed the ducks and geese.

When in Birds of Eden, do not hurriedly walk through it. Take your time and leisurely walk through this exquisite dome.

Take in the beauty and admire the abundance of magnificent birds. Just sit and watch. You will be truly amazed and completely appreciate the earth so much more!

Useful Links:
For destination information see:
Plettenberg Bay Attractions
Plettenberg Bay Hotels
Plettenberg Bay Accommodation

Knysna Loerie

Scattered along the Garden Route, fashionable seaside resorts abound, attracting jet-setters from around the globe. Tiny coastal villages appeal especially to outdoor people who enjoy an unstructured holiday agenda.

Mountains crowd close to the shoreline which is dotted with beaches and bays, and wonderfully coloured wild flowers delight the eye. Between Heidelberg and Storms River, the Garden Route runs parallel to a coastline featuring lakes, mountains, tall indigenous forests, rivers and golden beaches.

Meandering trails are followed by hikers, the forests invite long, leisurely drives, and the lakes and rivers lend themselves to swimming boating and fishing. A wide range of leisure options, spectacular scenery and a mild climate guarantee a truly unforgettable holiday experience …

Useful Links for exploring the Garden Route of South Africa:

• Explore the Garden Route, South Africa
• Destinations and Attractions
• Garden Route Accommodation (includes the popular towns of Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Wilderness and George)
• Garden Route Hotels and Resorts
• Garden Route Day Trips and Tours
• Romantic Honeymoon Venues
• Golfing along the Garden Route
• Accommodation by Special Category (eg. Health resorts, pet friendly lodgings, Game Lodges etc.
• Special discounted offers

Bon Voyage – Happy Travelling!