Elizabeth’s guidebook
Outdoors - nature, beaches and hiking
The Garden Route is a dream destination for anyone who loves living life outdoors. There are so many beautiful places on our door step; these are some of our favourites off the beaten track
Robberg Peninsula is a nature reserve and Marine Protected Area as well as a South African National Monument and World Heritage Site. The peninsula is a part of a 175ha nature reserve offering 3 circular hikes with panoramic views of the bay and Tsitsikamma Mountains. Robberg is home to a large colony of around 5000 cape fur seals and hikers often spot whales, dolphins, even the occasional shark. At low tide, rock pools on the Island teem with sea anemones and marine creatures. Robberg is largely coastal fynbos (5000 of the 8000 plant species found in the South African fynbos region aren’t found anywhere else in the world). In Nelson’s Cave you can see rocks dating back 120 million years and evidence of Stone Age living
www.capenature.co.za/reserves/robberg-nature-reserve
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Robberg Nature Reserve
Robberg Peninsula is a nature reserve and Marine Protected Area as well as a South African National Monument and World Heritage Site. The peninsula is a part of a 175ha nature reserve offering 3 circular hikes with panoramic views of the bay and Tsitsikamma Mountains. Robberg is home to a large colony of around 5000 cape fur seals and hikers often spot whales, dolphins, even the occasional shark. At low tide, rock pools on the Island teem with sea anemones and marine creatures. Robberg is largely coastal fynbos (5000 of the 8000 plant species found in the South African fynbos region aren’t found anywhere else in the world). In Nelson’s Cave you can see rocks dating back 120 million years and evidence of Stone Age living
www.capenature.co.za/reserves/robberg-nature-reserve
Nature’s Valley lies in the heart of the Tsitsikamma forest; a beautiful lagoon and 6km long, white beach full of shells surrounded by mountains and forest. The ocean is often pale luminous blue and there are rock pools to explore. Never swim alone in the sea here – currents can be very strong and waves very high. There’s a peaceful lagoon for swimming. Despite its beauty, Nature’s Valley remains fairly undeveloped. The road from the N2 winds around multiple hairpin bends through indigenous forest with giant yellowwoods and old man’s beard dangling from trees
Nature’s Valley is the finish of the Otter Trail, one of South Africa’s flagship hikes along 42km of craggy coastline from Storms River. There are scenic walks and hikes through rainforest, along cliffs and in dry river beds. And if you haven’t got your boots with you, canoeing or swimming in the cola-coloured lagoon are great fresh air alternatives
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Nature's Valley
Nature’s Valley lies in the heart of the Tsitsikamma forest; a beautiful lagoon and 6km long, white beach full of shells surrounded by mountains and forest. The ocean is often pale luminous blue and there are rock pools to explore. Never swim alone in the sea here – currents can be very strong and waves very high. There’s a peaceful lagoon for swimming. Despite its beauty, Nature’s Valley remains fairly undeveloped. The road from the N2 winds around multiple hairpin bends through indigenous forest with giant yellowwoods and old man’s beard dangling from trees
Nature’s Valley is the finish of the Otter Trail, one of South Africa’s flagship hikes along 42km of craggy coastline from Storms River. There are scenic walks and hikes through rainforest, along cliffs and in dry river beds. And if you haven’t got your boots with you, canoeing or swimming in the cola-coloured lagoon are great fresh air alternatives
A great beach to walk is Platbank Beach, east of Sedgefield, which is part of the Goukamma Nature Reserve and an ideal place to get away from it all. The beach always seems deserted. Fossilised dunes, weathered into weird shapes, tower over the sand. Access to the beach is along a boardwalk from the car park. Once on the beach, to the right at low tide you can walk all the way to Sedgefield and the Pili Pili beach bar. To the left the beach stretches all the way to Buffels (Buffalo) Bay. It’s quite a long walk and best at low tide otherwise some sections may be impassable
Platbank
A great beach to walk is Platbank Beach, east of Sedgefield, which is part of the Goukamma Nature Reserve and an ideal place to get away from it all. The beach always seems deserted. Fossilised dunes, weathered into weird shapes, tower over the sand. Access to the beach is along a boardwalk from the car park. Once on the beach, to the right at low tide you can walk all the way to Sedgefield and the Pili Pili beach bar. To the left the beach stretches all the way to Buffels (Buffalo) Bay. It’s quite a long walk and best at low tide otherwise some sections may be impassable
Swartvlei beach is the most westerly of Sedgefield’s five beautiful beaches that stretch about 6km from Swartvlei to Platbank in the east. At low tide it’s possible to walk the whole distance. Swartvlei is a lovely sandy beach for walking and fishing. There are safe swimming spots but beware of riptides. Like Platbank, the weathered cliffs are actually fossilised dunes. Colonies of cormorants nest on the cliffs and rare African black oystercatchers are often seen
The walk to Gericke’s Point, a rocky landmark resembling a lion’s head, is about 4km. The point is a great vantage point for dolphin and whale watching. Look out for pods of common, bottlenose and humpback dolphins. Southern Right whales visit from July to October
At low tide rock pools at the Point brim with marine life and the deeper pools are perfect for snorkelling
At full moon when the tide is lowest, a ‘moonlight meander’ on Swartvlei beach with local guides Judy and Mark Dixon provides an intriguing glimpse into the nocturnal marine world. Uncover the sandy hiding places of ghost crabs and ‘mermaid’s purses’ and explore rock pools by torch light to find bright anemones, nudibranchs, perhaps even an octopus on the hunt for a crab dinner. In winter you sometimes see bioluminescence; light produced by tiny marine creatures which adds an extra sparkle to the evening
Walks depart from Swartvlei beach at 7pm and take about four hours. Wear waterproof shoes and warm clothing and bring a torch with at least 3 hours battery life. Bookings a must www.gardenroutetrail.co.za Tel: 082 213 5931
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Swartvlei Beach
Swartvlei beach is the most westerly of Sedgefield’s five beautiful beaches that stretch about 6km from Swartvlei to Platbank in the east. At low tide it’s possible to walk the whole distance. Swartvlei is a lovely sandy beach for walking and fishing. There are safe swimming spots but beware of riptides. Like Platbank, the weathered cliffs are actually fossilised dunes. Colonies of cormorants nest on the cliffs and rare African black oystercatchers are often seen
The walk to Gericke’s Point, a rocky landmark resembling a lion’s head, is about 4km. The point is a great vantage point for dolphin and whale watching. Look out for pods of common, bottlenose and humpback dolphins. Southern Right whales visit from July to October
At low tide rock pools at the Point brim with marine life and the deeper pools are perfect for snorkelling
At full moon when the tide is lowest, a ‘moonlight meander’ on Swartvlei beach with local guides Judy and Mark Dixon provides an intriguing glimpse into the nocturnal marine world. Uncover the sandy hiding places of ghost crabs and ‘mermaid’s purses’ and explore rock pools by torch light to find bright anemones, nudibranchs, perhaps even an octopus on the hunt for a crab dinner. In winter you sometimes see bioluminescence; light produced by tiny marine creatures which adds an extra sparkle to the evening
Walks depart from Swartvlei beach at 7pm and take about four hours. Wear waterproof shoes and warm clothing and bring a torch with at least 3 hours battery life. Bookings a must www.gardenroutetrail.co.za Tel: 082 213 5931
Noetzie is one of Knysna’s natural splendours. The kind of place you’ll always remember. Noetzie’s ‘castles’ have intrigued visitors over the years but what really makes it special is its pristine natural beauty. A golden beach surrounded by forested hills, dark lagoon waters, rugged ochre rocks and thundering breakers. During apartheid, Noetzie, unlike other public places, remained non-racial to be enjoyed by all www.noetzie.co.za
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Noetzie
Noetzie is one of Knysna’s natural splendours. The kind of place you’ll always remember. Noetzie’s ‘castles’ have intrigued visitors over the years but what really makes it special is its pristine natural beauty. A golden beach surrounded by forested hills, dark lagoon waters, rugged ochre rocks and thundering breakers. During apartheid, Noetzie, unlike other public places, remained non-racial to be enjoyed by all www.noetzie.co.za
Close to home, Harkerville Forest is a great place for hiking, mountain biking, picnicking and, yes, enjoying the scenery …
Kranshoek viewpoint has a picnic site and cliff-top views of the rugged coastline
Harkerville Forest is home to several hiking trails including:
Kranshoek coastal trail, a circular 3km or 9km route with spectacular views over the Indian Ocean. The trail traverses Afromontane forest, coastal scrub forest, low tide pools and coastal fynbos (descent and ascent of 200m, strenuous in parts, good walking shoes essential). The trail starts at Kranshoek picnic site at the top of a tall waterfall, winds through forest into a gorge and follows the waterfall's stream towards the coast, continuing along a rocky beach before climbing back up to the picnic site via the Kranshoek viewpoint. Allow 4 – 5 hours for the full 9km trail or 2 hours for the 3km section. This trail was closed after wildfires in June 2017, please check before attempting
The Flora trail, a circular 1km route from Kranshoek picnic site where information boards provide a flora guide to the trail
Perdekop trail, a circular 9.5km route from Harkerville Forestry Station follows an easy, shaded forest path ideal for relaxation and spiritual contemplation Allow 3-4 hours
Harkerville Forest offers some of the finest mountain-biking in South Africa
Three colour-coded, route-marked tracks; Red (23 km), Green (15 km) and Blue (12 km) all include "off-road" sections along forest paths. The Red route includes some especially dramatic scenery
Access to the forest is by self-issue permit at Harkerville Forestry Station (modest entry fees apply).
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Harkerville Forest
Close to home, Harkerville Forest is a great place for hiking, mountain biking, picnicking and, yes, enjoying the scenery …
Kranshoek viewpoint has a picnic site and cliff-top views of the rugged coastline
Harkerville Forest is home to several hiking trails including:
Kranshoek coastal trail, a circular 3km or 9km route with spectacular views over the Indian Ocean. The trail traverses Afromontane forest, coastal scrub forest, low tide pools and coastal fynbos (descent and ascent of 200m, strenuous in parts, good walking shoes essential). The trail starts at Kranshoek picnic site at the top of a tall waterfall, winds through forest into a gorge and follows the waterfall's stream towards the coast, continuing along a rocky beach before climbing back up to the picnic site via the Kranshoek viewpoint. Allow 4 – 5 hours for the full 9km trail or 2 hours for the 3km section. This trail was closed after wildfires in June 2017, please check before attempting
The Flora trail, a circular 1km route from Kranshoek picnic site where information boards provide a flora guide to the trail
Perdekop trail, a circular 9.5km route from Harkerville Forestry Station follows an easy, shaded forest path ideal for relaxation and spiritual contemplation Allow 3-4 hours
Harkerville Forest offers some of the finest mountain-biking in South Africa
Three colour-coded, route-marked tracks; Red (23 km), Green (15 km) and Blue (12 km) all include "off-road" sections along forest paths. The Red route includes some especially dramatic scenery
Access to the forest is by self-issue permit at Harkerville Forestry Station (modest entry fees apply).
Plett has 11 beautiful beaches, covering more than 20km of pristine Indian Ocean coastline. Six beaches have ‘Blue Flag’ status, which means they are amongst the top quality beaches in the world
Central beach or Main beach, east of the Beacon Island hotel, is generally Plett’s busiest beach, about 2km from the centre of town. In summer holidays you’ll be hard-pressed to find a patch of sand to spike your brolly or lay out your deck chair. It’s a family beach and considered one of Plett’s safest swimming beaches. Life guards are on duty in season
Public toilets, restaurants, parking, kayaking and whale-watching boat trips
Just a little further on from Central beach is Hobie beach and beyond that the Wedge, an ideal boogie boarding spot that generates a unique wave to challenge even the most skilled surfer
Robberg beach stretches for about 4km between Beacon Island Hotel and Robberg Peninsula, fronting the ‘Millionaire’s Row’ beachfront residences on Beachyhead Drive. Robberg is popular for LONG walks, jogging, kayaking and paddle-skiing. The beach is clean and well-kept and you might even find one of Plett’s iconic pansy shells at low tide. When the wind is blowing westerly in summer, the sea is usually warm and has a crystalline quality that makes this beach ideal for swimming. Dolphins, whales and seals are often seen in or just behind the waves in season. The beach is divided into several swimming stations monitored by lifeguards in season. Robberg has some of the best swimming in Plett but be warned riptides are common so stay inside areas marked out by lifeguards. When the surf is high you can hear the waves from the N2 (Robberg is well-known for its ‘dumpers’), so if there’s no lifeguard on duty, or if the water is ice-cold, stay on dry land and watch out for jellyfish and bluebottles coming in with cold water and south-easterly winds. The beach can be accessed near the Beacon Isle Hotel and via wooden walkways at various points further down towards Robberg Peninsula
Robberg 5 beach is the central area of Robberg beach with the best swimming areas. It’s popular for surfing and boogie boarding. If you’re lucky, pods of bottlenose swim among bathers. Southern Right whales also like to frolic in the protected waters in season. Access is via Beachyhead Drive (or on foot along the beach).
STAY SAFE: Swim only at lifeguard-manned beaches between the poles and always obey lifeguard instructions. For more information, contact Beach Control: 044 501 3125. For beach information, visit Plettbeachwatch or contact Beach Control.
Lookout beach was washed away by flooding in 2007 but has returned even more pristine in recent years. Lookout beach is a world-class surfing spot. It’s great for sunbathing too; its famous gentle arc covered with bright beach umbrellas and even brighter bikinis, clear surf mobbed by swimmers and kids surfing in on body-boards. The iconic Lookout Deck bar and restaurant sits above the beach tempting you with cold beer, sundowners, seafood …
Keurbooms lagoon beach varies from a strip of sand to a broad stretch of beach depending on tides and flow of water from Keurbooms River. There are often wide sandbanks with shallow water covering them which on hot days heats up to very comfortable warmth. It’s one of the safest family swimming spots and ideal for little ones to splash about in the shallows. Ocean waves break beyond the deeper boat channel where rowing boats, yachts and ski boats cruise up and down. Keurbooms lagoon is accessed from the residential area of Poortjies.
Dunes Beach is located between Keurbooms beach and the mouth of Keurbooms River, about 13km from central Plett. It’s accessed to the west by a walkway opposite the old Protea Hotel or from the east via a car park near Waves Ave. It’s also accessible from The Dunes Hotel at Keurboomstrand
Keurbooms beach is a little wild but so beautiful with white sands that seem to stretch forever. It’s ideal for long walks, amazing sunsets and watching dolphins play in the surf
Access the beach from the N2 at Keurboomstrand east of Plett. Follow the road to the end and you’ll come to Ristorante Enrico at Kettle Beach
Arch Rock beach (named after its large arch-shaped rock would you believe) follows on from Kettle beach. Legend has it that if you throw a rock through the middle of the top hole in the rock without it touching either side you will have everlasting good luck. At low tide it’s a great spot for walking. Expect to see the rare black oystercatcher. You can swim at these beaches, but take care, the surf is often rough and tides can pull back quite powerfully
Arch Rock Beach is about15 km from central Plett and accessed via a boardwalk from the parking lot at Enrico’s
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Baie de Plettenberg
1 Crescent StreetPlett has 11 beautiful beaches, covering more than 20km of pristine Indian Ocean coastline. Six beaches have ‘Blue Flag’ status, which means they are amongst the top quality beaches in the world
Central beach or Main beach, east of the Beacon Island hotel, is generally Plett’s busiest beach, about 2km from the centre of town. In summer holidays you’ll be hard-pressed to find a patch of sand to spike your brolly or lay out your deck chair. It’s a family beach and considered one of Plett’s safest swimming beaches. Life guards are on duty in season
Public toilets, restaurants, parking, kayaking and whale-watching boat trips
Just a little further on from Central beach is Hobie beach and beyond that the Wedge, an ideal boogie boarding spot that generates a unique wave to challenge even the most skilled surfer
Robberg beach stretches for about 4km between Beacon Island Hotel and Robberg Peninsula, fronting the ‘Millionaire’s Row’ beachfront residences on Beachyhead Drive. Robberg is popular for LONG walks, jogging, kayaking and paddle-skiing. The beach is clean and well-kept and you might even find one of Plett’s iconic pansy shells at low tide. When the wind is blowing westerly in summer, the sea is usually warm and has a crystalline quality that makes this beach ideal for swimming. Dolphins, whales and seals are often seen in or just behind the waves in season. The beach is divided into several swimming stations monitored by lifeguards in season. Robberg has some of the best swimming in Plett but be warned riptides are common so stay inside areas marked out by lifeguards. When the surf is high you can hear the waves from the N2 (Robberg is well-known for its ‘dumpers’), so if there’s no lifeguard on duty, or if the water is ice-cold, stay on dry land and watch out for jellyfish and bluebottles coming in with cold water and south-easterly winds. The beach can be accessed near the Beacon Isle Hotel and via wooden walkways at various points further down towards Robberg Peninsula
Robberg 5 beach is the central area of Robberg beach with the best swimming areas. It’s popular for surfing and boogie boarding. If you’re lucky, pods of bottlenose swim among bathers. Southern Right whales also like to frolic in the protected waters in season. Access is via Beachyhead Drive (or on foot along the beach).
STAY SAFE: Swim only at lifeguard-manned beaches between the poles and always obey lifeguard instructions. For more information, contact Beach Control: 044 501 3125. For beach information, visit Plettbeachwatch or contact Beach Control.
Lookout beach was washed away by flooding in 2007 but has returned even more pristine in recent years. Lookout beach is a world-class surfing spot. It’s great for sunbathing too; its famous gentle arc covered with bright beach umbrellas and even brighter bikinis, clear surf mobbed by swimmers and kids surfing in on body-boards. The iconic Lookout Deck bar and restaurant sits above the beach tempting you with cold beer, sundowners, seafood …
Keurbooms lagoon beach varies from a strip of sand to a broad stretch of beach depending on tides and flow of water from Keurbooms River. There are often wide sandbanks with shallow water covering them which on hot days heats up to very comfortable warmth. It’s one of the safest family swimming spots and ideal for little ones to splash about in the shallows. Ocean waves break beyond the deeper boat channel where rowing boats, yachts and ski boats cruise up and down. Keurbooms lagoon is accessed from the residential area of Poortjies.
Dunes Beach is located between Keurbooms beach and the mouth of Keurbooms River, about 13km from central Plett. It’s accessed to the west by a walkway opposite the old Protea Hotel or from the east via a car park near Waves Ave. It’s also accessible from The Dunes Hotel at Keurboomstrand
Keurbooms beach is a little wild but so beautiful with white sands that seem to stretch forever. It’s ideal for long walks, amazing sunsets and watching dolphins play in the surf
Access the beach from the N2 at Keurboomstrand east of Plett. Follow the road to the end and you’ll come to Ristorante Enrico at Kettle Beach
Arch Rock beach (named after its large arch-shaped rock would you believe) follows on from Kettle beach. Legend has it that if you throw a rock through the middle of the top hole in the rock without it touching either side you will have everlasting good luck. At low tide it’s a great spot for walking. Expect to see the rare black oystercatcher. You can swim at these beaches, but take care, the surf is often rough and tides can pull back quite powerfully
Arch Rock Beach is about15 km from central Plett and accessed via a boardwalk from the parking lot at Enrico’s
Jubilee Creek trail is 3.6km out-and-back along a cool forest stream. The easy trail starts at a picnic spot on the banks of Millwood Creek. At the end of the hike there’s a pool to swim in. Jubilee Creek is named after Queen Victoria. In 1887 the area was the site of much activity during the Millwood gold rush
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Jubilee Creek picnic site and walk
Jubilee Creek trail is 3.6km out-and-back along a cool forest stream. The easy trail starts at a picnic spot on the banks of Millwood Creek. At the end of the hike there’s a pool to swim in. Jubilee Creek is named after Queen Victoria. In 1887 the area was the site of much activity during the Millwood gold rush
Circles in the Forest (Kringe in 'n Bos) hiking trail is named after the book with the same title by acclaimed South African author Dalene Matthee. Circular 3.1km or 9km easy-to-moderate trails start/end at Krisjan-se-Nek picnic site where you can braai and lie on the green grass
Sections of the trails pass forest ferns and streams and include a swimming spot and waterfall. Follow the 'Circles in the Forest' route markers. Allow 1.5 hours for the shorter route or 3 hours for the longer trail
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Circles in the Forest
Circles in the Forest (Kringe in 'n Bos) hiking trail is named after the book with the same title by acclaimed South African author Dalene Matthee. Circular 3.1km or 9km easy-to-moderate trails start/end at Krisjan-se-Nek picnic site where you can braai and lie on the green grass
Sections of the trails pass forest ferns and streams and include a swimming spot and waterfall. Follow the 'Circles in the Forest' route markers. Allow 1.5 hours for the shorter route or 3 hours for the longer trail
Radical Raptors rescues, rehabilitates and (whenever possible) releases birds of prey back into the wild. Witness flying displays in which a variety of trained non-releasable birds of prey fly free in natural surroundings (weather permitting)
www.radicalraptors.co.za
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Raptor Rescue Plett
Radical Raptors rescues, rehabilitates and (whenever possible) releases birds of prey back into the wild. Witness flying displays in which a variety of trained non-releasable birds of prey fly free in natural surroundings (weather permitting)
www.radicalraptors.co.za
Plettenberg Bay was originally named Bahia Formosa (beautiful bay) by Portuguese explorers and it’s easy to see why. Marine life in the bay is plentiful with good whale sightings in season and many other ways to enjoy the ocean and its amazing living world. Plett is home to several species of dolphin with regular sightings of bottlenose and common dolphins, even rare humpback dolphin. Between May and October the bay is an active breeding ground for whales with frequent sightings of Southern Right and Humpback whales. Boat trips depart daily from Central beach year round (weather dependent). Sea Kayaks are also available to explore the bay Ocean Safaris www.oceansafaris.co.za
Ocean Blue Adventures www.oceanadventures.co.za
Swim and interact with seals, sharks and schools of sardines in season. All equipment supplied. No experience necessary. Offshore Adventures www.offshoreadventure.co.za
Pack a cool box and travel upstream between the steep walls of Keurbooms River gorge. Majestic scenery, bird song, sandy coves and tranquil clear waters …
Ferry cruises and private charters www.ferry.co.za
Boat trips followed by an hour-long stand-up paddling experience www.standuppadling.co.za
Jump aboard Enrico’s Fishing Charters for a day in the deep with an experienced skipper who’ll bring you into contact with tough fighting fish. Whales, dolphins, seals and marine birds are often sighted too. Fishing tackle and bait included. Charters on Keurbooms River are also offered
Tel: Patrick 082 534 2029 www.enricorestaurant.co.za/charters
Fishing licence required (available at the post office)
‘Hook and Cook’ your catch from boat to chef’s pan at Ristorante Enrico overlooking Keurbooms beach
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Baie de Plettenberg
1 Crescent StreetPlettenberg Bay was originally named Bahia Formosa (beautiful bay) by Portuguese explorers and it’s easy to see why. Marine life in the bay is plentiful with good whale sightings in season and many other ways to enjoy the ocean and its amazing living world. Plett is home to several species of dolphin with regular sightings of bottlenose and common dolphins, even rare humpback dolphin. Between May and October the bay is an active breeding ground for whales with frequent sightings of Southern Right and Humpback whales. Boat trips depart daily from Central beach year round (weather dependent). Sea Kayaks are also available to explore the bay Ocean Safaris www.oceansafaris.co.za
Ocean Blue Adventures www.oceanadventures.co.za
Swim and interact with seals, sharks and schools of sardines in season. All equipment supplied. No experience necessary. Offshore Adventures www.offshoreadventure.co.za
Pack a cool box and travel upstream between the steep walls of Keurbooms River gorge. Majestic scenery, bird song, sandy coves and tranquil clear waters …
Ferry cruises and private charters www.ferry.co.za
Boat trips followed by an hour-long stand-up paddling experience www.standuppadling.co.za
Jump aboard Enrico’s Fishing Charters for a day in the deep with an experienced skipper who’ll bring you into contact with tough fighting fish. Whales, dolphins, seals and marine birds are often sighted too. Fishing tackle and bait included. Charters on Keurbooms River are also offered
Tel: Patrick 082 534 2029 www.enricorestaurant.co.za/charters
Fishing licence required (available at the post office)
‘Hook and Cook’ your catch from boat to chef’s pan at Ristorante Enrico overlooking Keurbooms beach
Foodie heaven
There are many restaurants in Knysna and Plettenberg Bay; these are a few special ones we’ve found consistently enjoyable
If you’re looking for something different, Pili Pili offers a “forever summer” vibe, a place to kick off your shoes and relax with a cocktail or Pili Pili’s own Kiff Brew Ale
The kitchen offers tasty, unpretentious food. Pizzas are freshly prepared, thin-based and wood-fired, the ribs are famous, the seafood amazing – oh, and the beers are ice cold. It’s the perfect spot to recharge or unwind
Home to Pili Pili Xtreme Sport Centre offering a range of activities including surfing, boarding, canoeing and paragliding www.pilipili.co.za
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PiliPili Beach Restaurant and Accommodation
2 Claude Urban DrIf you’re looking for something different, Pili Pili offers a “forever summer” vibe, a place to kick off your shoes and relax with a cocktail or Pili Pili’s own Kiff Brew Ale
The kitchen offers tasty, unpretentious food. Pizzas are freshly prepared, thin-based and wood-fired, the ribs are famous, the seafood amazing – oh, and the beers are ice cold. It’s the perfect spot to recharge or unwind
Home to Pili Pili Xtreme Sport Centre offering a range of activities including surfing, boarding, canoeing and paragliding www.pilipili.co.za
Brett describes the delicious vegetarian feasts he creates in his wooden house in the Knysna forest as ‘rustic gourmet’. Each dish on the set menu is prepared with love and features seasonal and foraged ingredients. Fairy lights, candles, eclectic furniture and beautiful crockery create a fabulous enchanted venue
Open for dinner Wednesday – Fridays 7pm in winter, 7.30pm in summer (by appointment only)
Booking is a must. Tel: Brett Garvie 074 833 9516
No credit card facilities
Bring your own alcohol (no corkage)
VegTable
49 Rheenendal RdBrett describes the delicious vegetarian feasts he creates in his wooden house in the Knysna forest as ‘rustic gourmet’. Each dish on the set menu is prepared with love and features seasonal and foraged ingredients. Fairy lights, candles, eclectic furniture and beautiful crockery create a fabulous enchanted venue
Open for dinner Wednesday – Fridays 7pm in winter, 7.30pm in summer (by appointment only)
Booking is a must. Tel: Brett Garvie 074 833 9516
No credit card facilities
Bring your own alcohol (no corkage)
Fill up at the delicious ‘all-you-can-eat’ Sunday lunch buffet at Tottie’s Farm Kitchen: a scrumptious spread of soup, crusty homemade bread, appetisers, amazing salad combinations, roast meats, vegetables and homemade dessert
Booking is a must – ask for a table on the veranda or, if the weather’s nice, in the garden) www.tottiesfarmkitchen.co.za
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Totties Farm Kitchen
Rheenendal RoadFill up at the delicious ‘all-you-can-eat’ Sunday lunch buffet at Tottie’s Farm Kitchen: a scrumptious spread of soup, crusty homemade bread, appetisers, amazing salad combinations, roast meats, vegetables and homemade dessert
Booking is a must – ask for a table on the veranda or, if the weather’s nice, in the garden) www.tottiesfarmkitchen.co.za
A Knysna tradition … this casual outdoor ‘beach’ restaurant has an extensive fish and seafood menu including fish and chips, speciality catches of the day, prawns, crayfish, oysters and plenty of combos and platters. Bring your own alcohol (no corkage) www.freshlinefisheries.co.za
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Freshline Fisheries
A Knysna tradition … this casual outdoor ‘beach’ restaurant has an extensive fish and seafood menu including fish and chips, speciality catches of the day, prawns, crayfish, oysters and plenty of combos and platters. Bring your own alcohol (no corkage) www.freshlinefisheries.co.za
East Head Café is a local landmark on the rocks of the famous Eastern Head. Breakfast and globally-inspired lunch dishes served with a spectacular view through Knysna Heads www.eastheadcafe.co.za
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East Head Café
25 George Rex DrEast Head Café is a local landmark on the rocks of the famous Eastern Head. Breakfast and globally-inspired lunch dishes served with a spectacular view through Knysna Heads www.eastheadcafe.co.za
Such a treat … Marco and his family hand-make authentic pizza and delicious ice creams in the traditional Italian way
They also produce home-made cheeses including their famous mozzarella
Enjoy real Italian hospitality in a relaxed garden setting with great food … as well as pizza the menu includes panini and platters of cold meats and cheeses, ice cream (of course) and seriously good coffee
Open Wednesday – Sunday 10am – 4pm (extended hours in season) (may be closed in winter). Bring your own alcohol (no corkage) www.facebook.com/icedreamlandplett
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Ice Dream Land
A15 Plettenberg Bay's Airport RdSuch a treat … Marco and his family hand-make authentic pizza and delicious ice creams in the traditional Italian way
They also produce home-made cheeses including their famous mozzarella
Enjoy real Italian hospitality in a relaxed garden setting with great food … as well as pizza the menu includes panini and platters of cold meats and cheeses, ice cream (of course) and seriously good coffee
Open Wednesday – Sunday 10am – 4pm (extended hours in season) (may be closed in winter). Bring your own alcohol (no corkage) www.facebook.com/icedreamlandplett
On the veranda at Alje’s working cheese farm overlooking the dam and Tsitsikamma mountains cheese-lovers could be forgiven for thinking they’re in heaven . There’s no menu – ingredients vary according to season. Lunch platters include a variety of raw Fynboshoek goat and cow’s milk cheeses with freshly-baked bread and home-grown garden salad, followed by homemade dessert. Limited to 20 people, salads are hand-picked, breads baked and cheeses prepared fresh each day. Booking is a must. If you find it hard to leave, Alje has a simple but lovely cottage sleeping up to 4. Purposefully without electricity, his cottage offers a real escape from which to enjoy the natural surroundings. Artisan cheese-making demonstrations can be arranged. To see raw milk transform into cheese is quite something
www.fynboshoek.co.za
11 recommandé par les habitants
Fynboshoek Cheese
On the veranda at Alje’s working cheese farm overlooking the dam and Tsitsikamma mountains cheese-lovers could be forgiven for thinking they’re in heaven . There’s no menu – ingredients vary according to season. Lunch platters include a variety of raw Fynboshoek goat and cow’s milk cheeses with freshly-baked bread and home-grown garden salad, followed by homemade dessert. Limited to 20 people, salads are hand-picked, breads baked and cheeses prepared fresh each day. Booking is a must. If you find it hard to leave, Alje has a simple but lovely cottage sleeping up to 4. Purposefully without electricity, his cottage offers a real escape from which to enjoy the natural surroundings. Artisan cheese-making demonstrations can be arranged. To see raw milk transform into cheese is quite something
www.fynboshoek.co.za
Robberg Seafood Safari has quality fresh fish, seafood and sushi ingredients, a wide selection of frozen fish and seafood and tip top take-away fish and chips. Try the tuna kebabs, fresh smoked snoek, roll mops or pickled fish. Seafood platters are available on request. The store keeps a variety of sauces, herbs, spices, oriental condiments and hard-to-find items like vanilla pods and saffron, not to mention the best selection of frozen berries in Plett
16 recommandé par les habitants
Robberg Fine Foods
1 Theron StRobberg Seafood Safari has quality fresh fish, seafood and sushi ingredients, a wide selection of frozen fish and seafood and tip top take-away fish and chips. Try the tuna kebabs, fresh smoked snoek, roll mops or pickled fish. Seafood platters are available on request. The store keeps a variety of sauces, herbs, spices, oriental condiments and hard-to-find items like vanilla pods and saffron, not to mention the best selection of frozen berries in Plett
Tucked away just off the N2 in a glorious garden this eclectic cafe serves delicious hot chocolate or coffee along with handmade chocolate delights including truffles and brownies
La Carla Masks and Chocolate Cafe
Tucked away just off the N2 in a glorious garden this eclectic cafe serves delicious hot chocolate or coffee along with handmade chocolate delights including truffles and brownies
This family-run brunch café and fusion restaurant is simply the best restaurant in Plett
23 recommandé par les habitants
Nineteen 89
Main StreetThis family-run brunch café and fusion restaurant is simply the best restaurant in Plett
Zinzi restaurant at Tsala Treetop Lodge offers fine dining just down the lane. Reservations recommended www.zinzirestaurant.com
49 recommandé par les habitants
Zinzi Restaurant
Zinzi restaurant at Tsala Treetop Lodge offers fine dining just down the lane. Reservations recommended www.zinzirestaurant.com
Adrenalin rush
There are lots of opportunities to get adrenalin pumping along the Garden Route - go on... what are you waiting for ?!
To really pump adrenalin take a bungy jump from Africa’s highest bridge. At 216m, the site is recognised as the ‘highest bungy from a bridge’ in the world and uses pendulum technology to ensure a smooth, most comfortable jump possible. Jumpers are secured in a full-body harness with ankle connection www.faceadrenalin.com
35 recommandé par les habitants
Pont Bloukrans
To really pump adrenalin take a bungy jump from Africa’s highest bridge. At 216m, the site is recognised as the ‘highest bungy from a bridge’ in the world and uses pendulum technology to ensure a smooth, most comfortable jump possible. Jumpers are secured in a full-body harness with ankle connection www.faceadrenalin.com
Hook up to a zip line adventure … state of the art equipment, a full body harness and professional guides ensure your safety as you whizz along a series of steel cables
Zip lines operate in all weather, rain suites are provided if needed. Full briefing is given by professional instructors. Suitable for children 3 years and older (children and anyone feeling nervous can slide in tandem with parents or with a guide). Tsitsikamma Falls Adventures offers 8 zip line slides, the longest 211m, zig-zagging a river gorge, up to 50m above the water. Control your speed to stop mid-cable for awesome views over the waterfalls
www.tsitsikammaadventure.com
ZIPLINE @ Tsitsikamma Falls Adventure
Hook up to a zip line adventure … state of the art equipment, a full body harness and professional guides ensure your safety as you whizz along a series of steel cables
Zip lines operate in all weather, rain suites are provided if needed. Full briefing is given by professional instructors. Suitable for children 3 years and older (children and anyone feeling nervous can slide in tandem with parents or with a guide). Tsitsikamma Falls Adventures offers 8 zip line slides, the longest 211m, zig-zagging a river gorge, up to 50m above the water. Control your speed to stop mid-cable for awesome views over the waterfalls
www.tsitsikammaadventure.com
Experience the rush of 200km/h free-fall with a tandem sky dive from around 10 000ft. Dare to open your eyes for a spectacular panorama of Plett’s coastline and inland all the way to the Knysna forest while your instructor steers you safely back to earth. Landings on central beach possible and must be booked in advance. Flights daily (weather permitting). Weight limit 100kg
Plett Airport www.skydiveplett.com
22 recommandé par les habitants
Skydive Plettenberg Bay
19 33"EExperience the rush of 200km/h free-fall with a tandem sky dive from around 10 000ft. Dare to open your eyes for a spectacular panorama of Plett’s coastline and inland all the way to the Knysna forest while your instructor steers you safely back to earth. Landings on central beach possible and must be booked in advance. Flights daily (weather permitting). Weight limit 100kg
Plett Airport www.skydiveplett.com
Retail therapy & markets
For extraordinary shopping experiences, these are some local favourites
We love Old Nick for shopping and eating, so much on offer …
Mungo Design manufactures quality homeware textiles, including table linen, throws, bedding and iconic flat-weave towels. ‘Man Cloth’ is a personal favourite, a braai cloth with heatproof corners that doubles as an apron. Never met a guy who didn’t want one
In November 2017 the Mungo textile mill opened at Old Nick. Watch the looms in action from a boardwalk on the upper level. It’s a thriving hub for production of the brilliant textiles Mungo is known for www.mungo.co.za
Prêt-à-Pot makes beautiful ceramics inspired by nature www.pret-a-pot.com
Roost Café serves a delicious breakfast/lunch menu and top notch barista coffee. Fresh artisan breads and farm shop www.facebook.com/roostplett
Red Shed garden centre will inspire anyone to take up a spade and get planting
Indalo’s classic/casual ladies clothing and accessories are a real treat
Ruby Soul Psychedelicatessen stocks an eclectic mix of soaps, aromatic body products and gifts that create a glorious world of fragrance, warmth and colour www.rubysoul.co.za
MakeAfrica is fascinating shop stocking authentic and iconic African products and artifacts
Check out the midweek market @ Old Nick, Wednesdays 10am – 2pm www.oldnickvillage.co.za
116 recommandé par les habitants
Old Nick Village
We love Old Nick for shopping and eating, so much on offer …
Mungo Design manufactures quality homeware textiles, including table linen, throws, bedding and iconic flat-weave towels. ‘Man Cloth’ is a personal favourite, a braai cloth with heatproof corners that doubles as an apron. Never met a guy who didn’t want one
In November 2017 the Mungo textile mill opened at Old Nick. Watch the looms in action from a boardwalk on the upper level. It’s a thriving hub for production of the brilliant textiles Mungo is known for www.mungo.co.za
Prêt-à-Pot makes beautiful ceramics inspired by nature www.pret-a-pot.com
Roost Café serves a delicious breakfast/lunch menu and top notch barista coffee. Fresh artisan breads and farm shop www.facebook.com/roostplett
Red Shed garden centre will inspire anyone to take up a spade and get planting
Indalo’s classic/casual ladies clothing and accessories are a real treat
Ruby Soul Psychedelicatessen stocks an eclectic mix of soaps, aromatic body products and gifts that create a glorious world of fragrance, warmth and colour www.rubysoul.co.za
MakeAfrica is fascinating shop stocking authentic and iconic African products and artifacts
Check out the midweek market @ Old Nick, Wednesdays 10am – 2pm www.oldnickvillage.co.za
Harkerville Market is a true Plett tradition, a typical South African Saturday Market, part farmer’s market, part craft market, part flea market; rural and rustic and at the same time vibrant and vital. Enjoy a lazy breakfast under the mighty oak, then load up your basket with fresh treats for the weekend. Open Saturdays 8am – 12pm, rain or shine www.harkervillemarket.co.za
86 recommandé par les habitants
Marché du samedi de Harkerville
Harkerville Market is a true Plett tradition, a typical South African Saturday Market, part farmer’s market, part craft market, part flea market; rural and rustic and at the same time vibrant and vital. Enjoy a lazy breakfast under the mighty oak, then load up your basket with fresh treats for the weekend. Open Saturdays 8am – 12pm, rain or shine www.harkervillemarket.co.za
Wine farms & distilleries
Plett’s wine region is small, young, exciting and thriving and very possibly South Africa’s most scenic wine region.... not to mention Knysna's up-and-coming gin scene. Go explore!
Plett is South Africa’s smallest wine growing region representing 58ha of 100,000ha planted countrywide. Plett’s wine region is the country’s most easterly cultivar stretching 57km along a thin coastal strip from Harkerville to Crags with more than 16 wine farms. As South Africa’s newest Wine of Origin region Plett is home to some respected vineyards, recognised nationally and internationally, many with award-winning wines and Methodé Cap Classique (bubbly) fondly referred to as MCC. Some of the leading wine farms are listed below
If you fancy being driven while you taste … Plett WINE Tours provide tailor-made tours that include an overview of the South African wine industry and Plett winelands, viticulture, the step-by-step process of creating wine and a little history of the various wine farms, the terroir and more
Tel: 081 270 0658 www.plettwinetours.com
107 recommandé par les habitants
Baie de Plettenberg
1 Crescent StreetPlett is South Africa’s smallest wine growing region representing 58ha of 100,000ha planted countrywide. Plett’s wine region is the country’s most easterly cultivar stretching 57km along a thin coastal strip from Harkerville to Crags with more than 16 wine farms. As South Africa’s newest Wine of Origin region Plett is home to some respected vineyards, recognised nationally and internationally, many with award-winning wines and Methodé Cap Classique (bubbly) fondly referred to as MCC. Some of the leading wine farms are listed below
If you fancy being driven while you taste … Plett WINE Tours provide tailor-made tours that include an overview of the South African wine industry and Plett winelands, viticulture, the step-by-step process of creating wine and a little history of the various wine farms, the terroir and more
Tel: 081 270 0658 www.plettwinetours.com
As the first wine estate in the Plett area, Bramon laid the ground work for many wine farms that followed. Since planting its first vines in 2000, the family-run estate has won many national and international awards. A tasting room is located at the N2 and the restaurant set amongst vines a short distance beyond www.bramonwines.co.za
135 recommandé par les habitants
Bramon Wines Restaurant & Wine Tasting
N2As the first wine estate in the Plett area, Bramon laid the ground work for many wine farms that followed. Since planting its first vines in 2000, the family-run estate has won many national and international awards. A tasting room is located at the N2 and the restaurant set amongst vines a short distance beyond www.bramonwines.co.za
Newstead produces award-winning wines and MCC bubblies. Tasting room and restaurant serving lunches made with seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients (often from the vineyard’s own vegetable, herb and flower gardens) www.newsteadwines.com
53 recommandé par les habitants
Newstead Wine Estate
Newstead produces award-winning wines and MCC bubblies. Tasting room and restaurant serving lunches made with seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients (often from the vineyard’s own vegetable, herb and flower gardens) www.newsteadwines.com
Kay + Monty is a working polo farm and award-winning vineyard producing Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and MCC. The modern restaurant and tasting room overlooks over mountains, indigenous forest and fields of ponies grazing. Food is beautifully prepared, fresh and full of flavour. The wine will blow your socks off. www.kayandmonty.com
33 recommandé par les habitants
Kay and Monty wines
Kay + Monty is a working polo farm and award-winning vineyard producing Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and MCC. The modern restaurant and tasting room overlooks over mountains, indigenous forest and fields of ponies grazing. Food is beautifully prepared, fresh and full of flavour. The wine will blow your socks off. www.kayandmonty.com
Lodestone’s vineyards and olive orchard are nestled in the foothills of the Tsitsikamma Mountains, close enough to feel the sea breeze from the Indian Ocean. Visitors can taste Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, dry Rosé and MCC and acclaimed olive oil and enjoy lunch in a beautiful setting. www.lodestonewines.com
7 recommandé par les habitants
Lodestone Wines
Lodestone’s vineyards and olive orchard are nestled in the foothills of the Tsitsikamma Mountains, close enough to feel the sea breeze from the Indian Ocean. Visitors can taste Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, dry Rosé and MCC and acclaimed olive oil and enjoy lunch in a beautiful setting. www.lodestonewines.com
Knysna Gin Distillery creates traditional small batch spirits. The distillery and tasting room allows visitors to appreciate the entire distilling process while sipping a G&T. Using a traditional approach with a copper still and flame creates a clean, smooth spirit. Knysna Gin is infused with nine natural botanicals and local spring water. Num num berries, a favourite of the Knysna Loerie, deliver a slightly tart element to the gin. Visit any day for tastings and an informal tour. Happy hour daily and a cocktail night on Fridays to celebrate the opening of the potstill - the magical cloud of vapour is something to behold!
15 recommandé par les habitants
Knysna Gin Distillery
5 Uil StKnysna Gin Distillery creates traditional small batch spirits. The distillery and tasting room allows visitors to appreciate the entire distilling process while sipping a G&T. Using a traditional approach with a copper still and flame creates a clean, smooth spirit. Knysna Gin is infused with nine natural botanicals and local spring water. Num num berries, a favourite of the Knysna Loerie, deliver a slightly tart element to the gin. Visit any day for tastings and an informal tour. Happy hour daily and a cocktail night on Fridays to celebrate the opening of the potstill - the magical cloud of vapour is something to behold!
Take a scenic horse and carriage ride between local wine farms tasting the best the region has to offer www.horseridinggardenroute.com
23 recommandé par les habitants
Hog Hollow Horse & Carriage Trails
Kurland ParkTake a scenic horse and carriage ride between local wine farms tasting the best the region has to offer www.horseridinggardenroute.com
Social impact
Make a difference by supporting people in local communities to create a better future
Make new friends and experience the authentic diversity of life in the new South Africa on a fully-guided, interactive walk in the Knysna township of Nekkies. You’ll find a place of friendship and resilience and feel the vibrant energy of the people who live there. Meet local home-owners and visit local businesses. Find out about Xhosa cultural traditions and the role of the sangoma (traditional healer)
Visit MADaboutART, a social enterprise using art and creative expression in a safe environment to support children to make positive life choices. Join the kids in class as they sing, paint, whatever the activity of the day is. Unique gift items made by the children including hand-beaded bracelets are available to purchase. All funds raised help reduce the impact of HIV and support children to make positive life choices www.madaboutart.org
To book your tour visit www.airbnb.com/experiences/644435
MADaboutART
Sonqayi StreetMake new friends and experience the authentic diversity of life in the new South Africa on a fully-guided, interactive walk in the Knysna township of Nekkies. You’ll find a place of friendship and resilience and feel the vibrant energy of the people who live there. Meet local home-owners and visit local businesses. Find out about Xhosa cultural traditions and the role of the sangoma (traditional healer)
Visit MADaboutART, a social enterprise using art and creative expression in a safe environment to support children to make positive life choices. Join the kids in class as they sing, paint, whatever the activity of the day is. Unique gift items made by the children including hand-beaded bracelets are available to purchase. All funds raised help reduce the impact of HIV and support children to make positive life choices www.madaboutart.org
To book your tour visit www.airbnb.com/experiences/644435