The road that winds its way from Storms River in the Eastern Cape to Mossel Bay in the Western Cape is fondly known as the Garden Route – possibly one of the most picturesque drives in the world. From forests, gorges and nature reserves to valleys, lakes and beaches – the roughly 300km long road traverses through some of South Africa’s finest small towns and is home to some the nation’s best kept secrets.
Whilst flights and travel for leisure purposes have been off-limits since lockdown began, many South Africans are itching to hit the road in pursuit of freedom and in an effort to support domestic hospitality providers. A popular route, that connects Johannesburg and Cape Town, is the Garden Route – so named for the ecologically diverse vegetation encountered and the numerous estuaries and lakes along the coastline.
The Garden Route has no shortage of luxurious hotels, resorts and B&B’s along its route – particularly in the popular coastal resorts of Plettenberg Bay and Knysna as well as Wilderness, Sedgefield, Oudtshoorn and George – but considering the beauty of this region there are hidden gems that allow guests to truly immerse themselves in nature.
Meet Africamps. Situated on various farms and estates throughout South Africa, these custom-designed boutique tents are fully furnished and come complete with fully equipped kitchens and bathrooms (#AblutionBlocksMustFall), braai decks (the insane view comes complimentary) and some even have private wood-fired hot tubs!
Of the 11 Africamps, 4 are situated along the Garden Route, namely:
- Africamps Ingwe (Plettenberg Bay)
- Africamps Oakhurst (Wilderness)
- Africamps Klein Karoo (Oudtshoorn)
- Africamps Kam’Bati (Swellendam)
Depending on the area and the local attractions, so the list of activities available varies between the establishments, but almost all have swimming pools, walking trails, mountain biking, fishing and hiking available. Many are situated on working farms and estates, enabling guests to experience authentic farm life and see how fresh local produce is made.
Whether you’re looking for a lazy, leisurely holiday or an action-packed family getaway, there is something to keep everyone busy at Africamps.
To find out more visit: https://www.africamps.com/
