The Garden Route

This morning we headed off along the Eastern part of the famous Garden Route, supposedly one of the top drives in the world. Maybe it was because of the dull weather for most of the route, but general feeling was underwhelming. Yes, there are some nice spots, and the drive is undoubtedly pleasant and picturesque with lagoons, lakes and rolling hills, but compared with some of the other drives we’ve done across the world (Great Ocean Road in Australia, Icefield Parkway in Western Canada, Big Sur in California, Highway 1 to Key West through the Florida Keys and Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island) it somewhat fails to deliver.

First stop was the seaside town of Sedgefield, where there was a bustling Farmers Market. Lots of stalls and very busy, but no sign of Tony and Cherie so we moved on to Knysna (pronounced ‘nicener’) . A ‘nicener’ enough waterfront, and ferry terminal but quite a large town, so lacked a bit of individual charm and character.

Then it was onto the final stop on the Western end of the Garden Route, the popular seaside resort of Plettenberg Bay ( known locally just as ‘Plet’). A pleasing resort (much smaller than Knysna) with a good vibe and nice sheltered beach, one of the few along this stretch where swimming is safe.

A quick coffee and then back towards base, by which time the weather was closing in.

Last call was a panoramic view point known as The map of Africa. The topography is meant to look like Africa. What do you think?

Back in time to catch Sky Soccer Saturday, as the rains closed in. Waterproofs required tonight methinks.

On the journey we were tuned into local radio station, Eden Radio. A total of 35 languages are spoken in SA, nine of which are official. Not sure what language is used on Eden Radio, but it sounded like a strange mix of Afrikaans and Welsh, with the occasional English phrase included. So the DJ would basically babble away in the chosen language and then insert words like “spring chicken” or “funeral parlour”. Sounded a lot like Rowley Birkin from ‘The Fast Show’.