The Outeniqua Mountains, located near George in the Garden Route of the Western Cape, South Africa, are a dramatic and scenic mountain range known for their rugged beauty and diverse ecosystems. Stretching from the town of George to the Little Karoo, the mountains offer breathtaking views and a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and birdwatching. The range is characterized by its lush vegetation, with forested slopes and pristine rivers providing habitats for a variety of wildlife. The Outeniqua Mountains are also notable for their rich biodiversity and unique flora, making them a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers seeking to explore the natural wonders of the Garden Route.
Here are some highlights:
1. Hiking and Trails:
Dolphin's Point Trail: A moderate hike that offers spectacular views of the coastline and the Outeniqua Mountains. The trail is well-marked and provides a rewarding experience with panoramic vistas.
Outeniqua Trail: This long-distance trail spans approximately 100 kilometers, offering a multi-day hiking experience through diverse landscapes, including forests, fynbos, and mountain passes.
Black River Falls: A shorter, scenic hike that leads to beautiful waterfalls and lush vegetation, ideal for a relaxing day in nature.
2. Scenic Drives:
Montagu Pass: This historic mountain pass, built in the 1840s, offers breathtaking views and a picturesque drive through the mountains. The route provides various viewpoints where you can stop and admire the scenery.
Outeniqua Pass: Connecting George to the Karoo, this pass is renowned for its stunning vistas and impressive engineering. It's a great drive for those wanting to experience the mountainous beauty of the region.
3. Nature Reserves and Parks:
Garden Route National Park (Outeniqua Section): This park offers diverse flora and fauna, including indigenous forests, fynbos, and unique wildlife. It provides various trails and picnic spots, making it a great destination for outdoor activities.
Cango Caves: Located slightly further afield in the Swartberg Mountains, these impressive limestone caves are known for their stunning rock formations and underground tours.
4. Adventure Activities:
Mountain Biking: The area around George features several mountain biking trails that cater to different skill levels. Trails like the George Mountain Bike Park offer well-maintained routes through scenic landscapes.
Paragliding: For a unique perspective of the Outeniqua Mountains and the Garden Route, paragliding offers thrilling aerial views and a sense of freedom.
5. Local Attractions:
George Museum: Located in George, the museum provides insights into the history and cultural heritage of the region, including its connection to the Outeniqua Mountains.
Victoria Bay: A nearby coastal gem offering excellent opportunities for swimming, surfing, and relaxing on the beach with views of the mountains in the distance.
These activities and attractions make the Outeniqua Mountains a diverse and appealing destination for visitors looking to explore natural beauty, engage in outdoor adventures, and enjoy the scenic landscapes of the Garden Route.
Grace Guest House is a beautifully restored self catering 1850 family farmstead set in serenity on a working farm with 360 degree views of the Outeniqua Mountains and Mossel Bay. The first suite caters for 6 people in two bedrooms... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Nestled in Groot Brakrivier, Garden Route, Western Cape, you'll find The Nightingale, a charming self-catering house offering an intimate escape for a couple or friends seeking rest and relaxation in tranquil surroundings. Sleeps 4 guests in 2 bedrooms. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
At 29 Columba offers bed and breakfast accommodation and self catering accommodation in Great Brak River (Groot Brak Rivier) in the Cape's Garden Route. We are located in the quiet suburb of Southern Cross in Great Brak River (Groot Brak Rivier)... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Nou Toe Nou offers self catering flatlet accommodation in Tergniet, a suburb of Great Brak River (Groot Brak Rivier) in the Mossel Bay area of the Garden Route. Our 2-bedroom self catering flatlet (sleeps 4) is located just 5km from Great Brak River... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Milkwood Cottage offers self catering house accommodation in the Island suburb of Great Brak River (Groot Brak Rivier) in the Cape's Garden Route. (Sleeps 8 comfortably). Tucked away in a quiet green valley in the seaside village of Hersham... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
323 Kusweg Tergniet offers self catering accommodation in the popular seaside holiday town of Tergniet. Situated on the beachfront with uninterrupted seaviews, this home sleeps 8 in comfort. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Sinfonie consists of two separate self catering family holiday apartments each with its own entrance and garage. This self catering accommodation is located in Tergniet, a small village between Little Brak River and Great Brak River. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Dwarswegstrand Resort is a holiday resort along the Garden Route Coast line between Mossel Bay and George near Great Brak River (Groot Brak Rivier). Here you can relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the coastal resort with direct access to... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ocean View offers self catering accommodation in Bothastrand, Glentana, in the Groot Brak River area of the Garden Route. Ocean View is an exquisite double-storey self-catering holiday home close to Glentana, just outside of George. Accommodation consists …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Outeniqua On C offers self catering apartment accommodation in Glentana in the Great Brak River area near George, Garden Route. Our accommodation sleeps a maximum 2 adults and 2 children (under 12); minimum 2 guests. If you want a relaxed holiday in peace …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.