Garden Route Hotels

Top reasons to visit Garden Route

• Stunning Scenery: The Garden Route offers breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and coastlines, perfect for scenic drives.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy thrilling safaris, hiking, and eco-friendly activities amidst the region's natural beauty.
• Charming Towns: Explore delightful towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, known for their hospitality and family-friendly experiences.
• Wine Tours: Discover the region's renowned vineyards and indulge in delightful wine tasting experiences.
• Exciting Accommodation: Choose from a variety of lodgings, from charming guesthouses to luxurious hotels, catering to all travellers.

Find great hotels near Garden Route

Discover the enchanting Garden Route, where a variety of accommodation options await to suit every traveller's needs. From charming guesthouses to luxurious hotels, the region offers family-friendly amenities and adventure-filled experiences, all within close proximity to stunning beaches. Whether you seek a relaxing getaway or an action-packed holiday, you'll find the perfect lodgings, complete with insightful reviews to help guide your choice of the best accommodation in this picturesque part of South Africa.

• Gondwana Game Reserve: Nestled a mere mile from the Garden Route, Gondwana Game Reserve presents a luxurious 5-star experience with a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. This golf-themed haven is ideal for those seeking adventure and family-friendly activities. Guests can indulge in onsite golf experiences or partake in a variety of adventure sports, including snorkelling, fishing, and sailing. The reserve also caters to families with amenities such as supervised childcare and a children's club, ensuring a delightful stay for younger guests while adults unwind in the tranquil surroundings.
• ATKV Hartenbos: Located 21km from the Garden Route, ATKV Hartenbos is a charming 3-star property boasting a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. This beachside accommodation offers direct access to the sandy shores, making it a superb choice for families seeking sun and sea. With amenities like a shared playground, children's pool, and highchairs available upon request, families will find the perfect environment for relaxation and fun. The inviting atmosphere and proximity to the beach ensure a memorable seaside experience.
• Garden Route Safari Camp: Situated 13km from the Garden Route, Garden Route Safari Camp features a unique safari tent experience with a commendable rating of 9.6 out of 10. This 3.5-star lodging offers a selection of dining options, including free daily breakfast and lunch services. Guests can engage in an array of activities such as hiking, fishing, and horse riding, while onsite game viewing adds an adventurous touch to the stay. Surrounded by stunning mountain views, this camp offers a blend of nature and comfort, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the South African wilderness.

Where to stay near Garden Route

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Garden Route, where stunning scenery and outdoor adventures await. Discover charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, each offering family-friendly activities and warm hospitality. Enjoy scenic drives along the main road, revealing breathtaking views of mountains, forests, and coastlines. With eco-friendly accommodations and recreational excursions, the Garden Route is the perfect destination for a memorable holiday filled with natural beauty and adventure.

• Herbertsdale: Nestled 13km from the stunning Garden Route, Herbertsdale is a charming city offering a more tranquil escape. Its allure lies in its romantic atmosphere and outdoor activities, making it perfect for couples and nature enthusiasts alike. While visitor numbers remain fairly constant throughout the year, the peaks in January, April, and September bring a lively vibe to its event conference venue. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding area, ideal for memorable outdoor experiences.
• Brandwag: Located 14km from the Garden Route, Brandwag is a vibrant city known for its eco-friendly initiatives and family-friendly activities. The peak tourist season from December to February sees families flocking to the region to explore its recreational areas, wildlife attractions, and resorts. Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity of a nature reserve and national park, providing ample opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. With its moderate seasonal visitor pattern, Brandwag promises a warm and welcoming atmosphere year-round.
• Ruiterbos: Situated 19km from the captivating Garden Route, Ruiterbos is a hidden gem that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and sports lovers. The city is particularly popular between December and February, attracting visitors eager to enjoy its golf courses and private country clubs. With a focus on eco-friendly experiences, Ruiterbos is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves and parks, making it an ideal setting for relaxation and recreation. Whether you're seeking thrilling sports or serene landscapes, Ruiterbos offers a delightful blend of both.

Things to do in Garden Route

Shopping

Visit the Garden Route Mall in George for a variety of shops, including fashion, electronics, and home goods. For a unique experience, head to the Knysna Waterfront, where you can find local crafts, art, and delicious food stalls, perfect for souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

Experience the tranquil ambiance of the Tsitsikamma Village Inn, where wellness treatments and nature walks intertwine. Explore the lush surroundings while indulging in spa therapies that rejuvenate the body and mind, offering a refreshing escape amidst the beautiful landscapes of the Garden Route.

At the Fancourt Hotel, enjoy luxurious spa treatments and wellness programmes in a serene setting. Take part in yoga sessions or explore scenic golf courses, all while surrounded by the stunning Outeniqua Mountains, enhancing your sense of wellbeing and relaxation.

Visit the Serenity Spa at the Nkomazi Game Reserve for a unique blend of spa treatments and wildlife experiences. Relax with rejuvenating treatments while being immersed in nature, followed by guided game drives that connect you with the beauty of the South African wilderness.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of bungee jumping from the Bloukrans Bridge, one of the highest commercial jumps in the world, offering an adrenaline rush and stunning views of the Tsitsikamma Forest. Explore the pristine trails of Tsitsikamma National Park, where you can hike, kayak, and encounter diverse wildlife along the coastline.

Nightlife

The Garden Route boasts a vibrant nightlife with venues like The Music Room in George, known for its live music and intimate atmosphere, and The Barnyard Theatre in Plettenberg Bay, offering entertaining shows and a lively crowd. Enjoy the unique blend of local flavours and sounds throughout the region.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Garden Route

To save on your trip to the Garden Route, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May to June and September when prices drop. Book your accommodation about a month in advance for the best rates, particularly on Saturdays. Use Expedia’s search tools to filter by budget and eco-friendly options, and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. Look for last-minute deals indicated by green labels for spontaneous plans, and always arrange the price filter from lowest to highest to find the best offers.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Garden Route are May to June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Garden Route about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Garden Route is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Garden Route is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations along the Garden Route with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Garden Route

The Garden Route is perfect for outdoor, eco-friendly family holidays, offering a blend of nature reserves, charming towns, and historic bridges. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, from city life to beautiful beaches and cultural experiences. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant communities that make this region a must-visit destination.

• Botlierskop Private Game Reserve: Located 23km away from Garden Route, this luxurious reserve offers a tranquil escape into nature. Guests can enjoy guided safari tours, observing diverse wildlife in their natural habitat, and indulge in sumptuous lodgings that provide a sense of seclusion and relaxation.
• Dana Bay: Situated 21km from Garden Route, this charming town boasts a lively atmosphere with a coastal flair. Visitors can explore local shops, enjoy beach activities, and take in stunning ocean views, making it an excellent spot for a leisurely day out.
• Gourits River Bridge: This historic bridge, located 18km from Garden Route, presents a fascinating glimpse into the area’s cultural heritage. Its picturesque setting invites photography enthusiasts, while the surrounding landscapes offer opportunities for exploration and reflection.

Best time to go to Garden Route

The best time to visit Garden Route is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January and February are its hottest month on average. At the time of February, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Garden Route

Accessing the Garden Route is convenient with two major airports nearby. George Airport (GRJ) is approximately 45km away, with excellent hotel options such as the 5-star Fancourt and The Manor House at Fancourt, both just 6km from the airport, offering various transportation services including free airport transportation and on-request shuttles. Hilltop Boutique Hotel, situated 16km from GRJ, also provides limited shuttle services. Alternatively, Plettenberg Bay Airport (PBZ) is located around 132km from Garden Route, with nearby luxury accommodations like The Plettenberg Hotel and Sky Villa Boutique Hotel , both 6km from PBZ, offering airport transfer services for a fee.