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Sir Cliff Richards might have been lyrically excited about his summer holidays way back in the sixties, but taking a family break in the autumnal Garden Route is something even better to look forward to.
With the end-of-first-term school holidays in sight, there is no shortage of cosy, budget-friendly and high-quality family accommodation to choose from in the George, Wilderness and Uniondale area of this famed region.
If you haven’t booked your vacation diggings yet, have a look at this round-up of special gems awaiting you and your family’s arrival.
Featured Image: Buff and Fellow Eco Game Farm
It’s a working buffalo farm, but also a great country escape about 10 km from the. The unusual self-catering accommodations are varied and not to be missed. Shipping containers have been transformed into luxurious pods, beautifully appointed eco cabins, and cosy “coconuts” – each is equipped with a wood-fired hot tub. Help yourself to fresh eggs from the cute chicken coop, or organic veggies from the veg patch. With so many family-friendly activities to do, from fishing and game drives to canoeing – not to mention the spectacular farming surroundings – you’ll have a thorough scrub from the rigours and stresses of everyday life.
Featured Image: Herold Wine
The historic Montagu Pass is one of the gateways to this remote and unique little winery situated on a slope of the Cradock Peak landmark. It was established in 1999 and produces superb wines. Besides cellar tours, wine tastings and delightful lunches, they offer accommodation in the form of renovated worker cottages, each one sleeping 4-6 people. No television and radio give you and your loved ones the opportunity to reconnect with one another, enjoying spectacular night skies and sharing stories of your Garden Route adventures around the fire.
Featured Image: Mountain Pastures
The Klein Karoo offers rare beauty, and this private game lodge with its pristine nature is just the place to experience it all. It is within easy reach of the popular Route 62, and it can be summarised in four wholesome prospects: early-morning game drives, lovely fynbos, a variety of African wildlife and real Boerekos. A mountain hike will bring you in close contact with Mother Nature, or saddle up and go explore on horseback. Participate in the age-old relaxation tradition of fishing, and let the splendid sight of eagles soaring the azure skies revive your soul.
Featured Image: Wilderness Bush Camp
You’ll enjoy a family holiday to remember when settling into one of the cosy cottages or cabins which is part of Wilderness Bush Camp’s accommodation offering. There is peace and seclusion, and fine views over the Indian Ocean and the surrounding forest. The communal lapa, full of character and with its own pizza oven, braai and fully equipped kitchen, is a sure hit and perfect to enjoy a happy family meal at the end of an adventurous and fun-filled day, complete with spectacular sunsets.
Featured Image: Witteberghoek Self-catering
Witteberghoek Self-catering
This picturesque family escape lies in the heart of the Langkloof with lovely views over the Witteberge. It’s a family farm rich with history and tradition. Guests can look forward to a whole range of exciting activities such as stargazing, bird watching, mountain biking, swimming, fishing and hiking. The farm produces apples, nectarines, apricots, prunes and pears as well as other products such as honey bush tea and bottled water. It’s om the doorstep of the classic Route 62. Affordable accommodation comes in the form of five separate, self-catering guesthouses (sleeping 4-12 people) and a developing camping terrain.
Featured Image: AfriCamps at Oakhurst
Why not try a fantastic glamping experience on a dairy farm surrounded by the pristine Wilderness forest? This has got to be one of the best ways to immerse the whole family in all that the Garden Route has to offer. The tented accommodation at Oakhurst Farm features private hot tubs from where you can admire the different faces of the ancient Outeniqua mountains. The tents are fully equipped, spacious and can sleep five people. Braai facilities, an indoor fireplace, lights and air conditioning ensure comfort. Kids can watch the cows being milked, join in a hike to the farm’s waterfall or paddle on the dam. It is the perfect family getaway.
The Garden Route is ready in all its autumnal splendour to entertain, refresh and nurture you and your family. Come bask in its mellow fruitfulness (in the poetic words of the famous Keats) and all that it entails. With its mild climate, treasure trove of activities, and myriad accommodation options sure to delight young and old, you’ll get into gear for the rest of the year!
