Skip to main content

Bucket List Travel #4 -The Garden Route of South Africa with Rose Kilian


Bucket List Episode:
The Garden Route of South Africa, by Rose Kilian


Hi there, I'm Rose Kilian, and I'm thrilled to share the magic of the Garden Route in South Africa, a place that has been my home and my heart. Growing up here was a dream, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and a rich tapestry of experiences. Whether you're planning a visit or just curious, I'm excited to take you on a journey through this enchanting region.

 

The Garden Route stretches along the southern coast of South Africa, from Knysna in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape. This coastal corridor is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, pristine beaches, and charming towns. It's a paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

 

We are starting our journey in Plettenberg Bay, or 'Plett' as the locals call it. Plett is known for its golden beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Visit Robberg Nature Reserve for breathtaking hiking trails and see seals and dolphins. The beaches here, like Lookout Beach and Keurbooms Beach, are best for unwinding and soaking in the sun.

 

Next, we head to Knysna, one of my absolute favorite spots. Nestled between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna is famous for its lagoon and the iconic Knysna Heads. Take a cruise on the lagoon, visit the Knysna Elephant Park, or explore the lush Knysna Forest. The forest is magical, with ancient trees and the possibility of spotting the elusive Knysna Loerie bird.

 

Don’t overlook Sedgefield, a quieter town that’s perfect for relaxing. The Saturday Wild Oats Community Farmers' Market is a local favorite, offering fresh produce, homemade goods, and crafts. The surrounding lakes and beaches are serene and ideal for a peaceful retreat.

 

Wilderness is another gem along the Garden Route. This small town is surrounded by rivers, lakes, and forests, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, canoeing, and bird-watching. The Map of Africa viewpoint offers panoramic views of the landscape that resembles the continent of Africa, a sight you won’t want to miss.

 

Finally, George is the largest town on the Garden Route and an excellent base for exploring the region. It has a rich history, beautiful botanical gardens, and excellent golf courses. The Outeniqua Transport Museum is a fascinating stop for train enthusiasts.

 

For something a bit different, head inland to Oudtshoorn, the world's ostrich capital. The Cango Caves, with their impressive limestone formations, are another highlight. These caves are among the largest in Africa and offer guided tours through their vast chambers.

 

The Garden Route is not just a destination; it's an experience that stays with you. There's something for everyone, from its diverse landscapes to its vibrant communities. Whether hiking through ancient forests, lounging on pristine beaches, or savoring local cuisine, the Garden Route offers endless adventures and memories.

 

Thank you for joining me on this journey. I hope you can visit and create your own unforgettable experiences in this beautiful part of the world. Safe travels, and enjoy every moment in the Garden Route of South Africa!

 

Connect with Dr. Travelbest

5 Steps to Solo Travel website

Dr. Mary Travelbest X

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group

Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram

Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast

Dr. Travelbest on TikTok

Dr.Travelbest onYouTube

In the news

 


Check out this episode!

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan

Episode: Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan FAQ Should I use public transportation abroad?   Episode: Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan    Lesson Learned: Don’t schedule everything Day 1   Travel Tip: Trust your gut instincts, if unsure, pivot fast.   FAQ Response:  Should I use public transportation abroad?   Yes, you should try it at the least, but not in rush hour with all of your luggage. One way to test it out is to try it early in the morning, before rush-hour workers arrive, but while it’s still light outside.  Most of the time, you only need a card to swipe, and you can add money to the card when you need to. Your first care purchase is often at a self-service kiosk, and usually there is English translations here. Go for it and try.   Episode: Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan This scenic region reminded me of Lake Tahoe, California.  If you are coming you will Arrive in Taoyuan airport and take the train to the Taipei Main Station and take the HSR t...

Train Travel: SLO to San Diego and Gluten Free Travel

  Episode title: SLO to San Diego by Train, GF Diets, and a Confidence Challenge Hi there. I’m Dr. Mary Travelbest, a world traveler who has traveled solo for over 50 years. I'm coming to you after a recent trip to Asia. I visited Taiwan and South Korea for 10 days. I’m here to share my best travel ideas and work on solo travel. I’m about to launch on a 90-day trip around the world solo again. The aim is world peace through cultural exchange. I’m about to travel the world for 90 days.   Listener Story Spotlight I want to tell you about a listener who recently retired as a dental hygienist. Her name is Cathy A. She’s been a big supporter of this podcast. She is traveling to Wisconsin to see her family and attend reunions. She’s enjoying her retirement by playing Marjan and. She recently sold her house and moved back into a condo she had bought decades before marriage. Her contractor husband fixed it up to her specs before they moved in, and she’s so happy. She’ll be trav...

2025 Eurail Travel Planning Guide and sinus relief

Where in the world am I? Eurail Travel planning   Hi there, I’m Dr. Mary Travelbest. I’m in San Diego now, sharing my best travel ideas and working on another book for you to enjoy: 5 Steps to Solo Travel, Part C. I’m about to launch on a 90-day trip around the world.   Listener Story Spotlight I want to tell you about a listener named Kristen. Kristen loves to travel. She recently received a Fullbright Scholarship and took a trip with her husband and sons to a foreign country, Portugal, for several months. She’s full of great travel ideas and will be helpful as I continue to travel and make my adventures more mobile. She’s encouraging me to keep going in my travels and is a professor in Southern California. Quick fire FAQ: The FAQ for today is:  Do you find that air travel dries your sinuses? Do you get dry and scratchy throats afterward? Yes, it happens. Let’s talk about how to rid yourself of this in advance.    How to avoid the dryness of airlin...