The Garden Route within South Africa’s Western Cape is one of the most scenic areas in the world. The suitably named 186 mile-long stretch along the Southern Coast of South Africa runs parallel to the breathtaking Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma mountain ranges and envelopes an Indian Ocean shoreline dotted with beaches and bays. The delight of luxury Garden Route travel is even more enhanced by the region’s varied natural flora and fauna, coupled with its mild Mediterranean-like climate. Protea and fynbos span the shoreline, and driving down the coast over the mountain passes reveals beautiful and awe-inspiring dimensions of topography, vegetation, and wildlife. From Mossel Bay in the west to Plettenberg Bay in the east, one can’t help but be seduced by its natural beauty.

The Garden Route in South Africa is perhaps best known for being a popular destination for golfers. Its 13 courses are widely considered some of the world’s best, with some offering fantastic ocean scenery and even whale sightings from their intricate greens. Ernie Els, Jack Nicklaus, and Gary Player have all imparted their design expertise here and promise a year-round golfing experience unlike any other. Along with being the golfing Mecca of South Africa, the Garden Route serves up a wide variety of things to do, from exploring meandering hiking trails to swimming, boating, and fishing in the surrounding gorgeous ocean, lakes, and rivers. Beach lovers and trekkers will delight in privately guided walks along these ancient and picturesque beaches. And if the ocean beckons, you can easily indulge in encounters with whales, seals, dolphins, and pelagic birds and then end your day with oysters at one of the many in-land eateries. Plettenberg Bay is especially alluring for an ever-increasing number of polo enthusiasts. The many polo tournaments held here during polo season are considered must-do’s for seasoned holidaymakers and jet setters from around the world.

Talk to your Ker & Downey travel expert to include luxury Garden Route travel in your handcrafted South Africa journey for an unforgettable experience.