Welcome in the Garden Route!

Explore the green oasis that is George, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and surrounds, and enjoy an unforgettable holiday with us!

                                                          Knysna - Let's go to the beach

Discover Knysna’s stunning mix of wild shores and gentle lagoons. From secret coves to family favourites, these beaches capture the essence of South Africa’s southern coast.

Knysna Heads - where ocean meets lagoon 

The experience: The Knysna Heads are the town’s most dramatic landmark - two towering cliffs framing the narrow entrance to the lagoon. Watch boats navigate the turbulent channel or soak up the panoramic views from the lookout points. 

Must-do: Enjoy a seafood lunch with a view. Take a scenic boat cruise on the lagoon. Capture sunset photos from the East Head viewpoint. 

Quick fact: The channel between the Heads is one of the most treacherous in the world - navigated only by skilled skippers!

Leisure Island  - Family fun and calm waters

 The experience: Peaceful, safe, and scenic, Leisure Island is a lagoon paradise. The shallow, warm waters make it perfect for kids, paddleboarders and relaxed swimmers. 

Must-do: Stroll or cycle around the island. Swim or kayak in the calm lagoon waters. Picnic under shady trees with views of the Heads. 

Quick fact: The island’s Bollard Bay Beach is often voted one of the best family beaches on the Garden Route.

Noetzie - Castles by the sea 

The experience: Secluded and enchanting, Noetzie Beach feels like a hidden world. Flanked by forested hills and iconic stone “castles”, it’s one of Knysna’s most unique coastal spots. 

Must-do: Walk along the soft golden sand. Photograph the iconic beachside castles. Enjoy a quiet picnic with forest views. 

Quick fact: The “castles” were built as holiday homes in the early 20th century - and now they are heritage landmarks!

Brenton-on-Sea Beach

The experience: Wild, wide, and wonderfully scenic, Brenton on-Sea is ideal for long beach walks and romantic sunsets. The beach stretches all the way to Buffalo Bay - perfect for adventurers and photographers alike.

Must-do: Take a long walk to Buffalo Bay. Watch for dolphins and whales in winter. Dine with a view at one of the cliffside cafés. 

Quick fact: Home to the Brenton Blue, one of South Africa’s rarest butterflies - found nowhere else in the world.

Coney Glen – a secret cove of charm 

The experience: A tiny, sheltered beach tucked beneath the Knysna Heads, Coney Glen is perfect for rockpool exploring, picnics and breathtaking ocean views. 

Must-do: Explore rock pools and hidden nooks. Enjoy a braai or picnic at the scenic braai area. Watch the waves crash against the cliffs. 

Quick fact: Despite its small size, Coney Glen is one of Knysna’s most photographed beaches.

                       Explore the trails around George 

The Garden Route Dam offers an array of scenic hiking options, from short strolls to more challenging routes. One of the most popular is the circular dam trail - a moderately difficult hike that takes about two hours to complete. This route offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and is perfect for anyone looking to unwind in nature.

The area is ideal for hiking, cycling and running, with trails made up of Jeep tracks, plantation roads and single tracks. Keep an eye out for local wildlife along the way.

Another firm favourite is the Pepsi Pools Trail, which runs from the dam through beautiful indigenous forest to a natural swimming and picnic spot. This more demanding route can take up to five hours for a round trip, and hikers are advised to go in groups.

Easy Trails 

Dikkop Trail (5km): An easy walk of about two hours, ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a gentle outing.

Garden Route Dam-short Walk (2.5km): A relaxed 1.5-hour walk to the dam with lovely views of the surrounding pine plantations.

Van Kervel Loop (2.5km): A short circular trail near the George Botanical Garden, taking 30 minutes to an hour.

Moderate Trails 

Garden Route Dam Trail (6.5km): A moderate circular trail around the dam, taking about two to 2.5 hours.

George Aerial and Old George Dam Trail (10km): A three-hour route through Witfontein Forest.

Katrivier Nature Reserve (10km): A scenic moderate trail through the reserve’s diverse landscape.

Hard Trails 

George Dam and Pepsi Pools Trail (20 km): A demanding full-day trail combining parts of both routes.

George Peak (8 km): A tough five-hour climb with spectacular views - a mountain guide is recommended.

Tierkop Route (15 km): A strenuous hike taking five hours or more; a guide is advisable. Outeniqua Mountains The Outeniqua Mountains boast numerous spectacular hiking routes. These trails should only be undertaken with a qualified guide or an experienced local hiker.

For more information, contact George Tourism on 044 801 9295