The Garden route in South Africa has long been a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty and unbelievable sights. Stretching across the coast of South Africa, the garden route starts from Mossel Bay and ends somewhere just out of Plettenberg Bay. The garden route is also one part of Africa that gives a near perfect climate almost all year round, making it a delight to visit whenever you feel like it.

To explore Garden Route in all its beauty, visiting more than one town is recommended. Most people start of with Knysna as their first destination Knysna is the unofficial capital of the Garden Route, with bustling life amidst the serene surroundings of nature. If you're looking for a laid-back feel, this town is the place to be. Though most famous for its Oysters, its surrounding lakes and lagoons, mountains and forestry make it such a picturesque place that you cant help but take in the beauty of it all.

However, most people come here to see the beauty of the garden route in a different way. The Outeniqua Choo Tjoe is the last remaining passenger steam train in the whole of Africa and provides you with a 3hr scenic journey you'll never forget to and from George and Knysna. Pass lush greenery, rivers and mountain bends beautiful landscapes on this once in a life time train ride that will seem to bring you between parallel worlds.

To indulge more in nature however, head for the Tsitsikamma National Park. Located in between Plettenberg Bay and Port Elizabeth, this beautiful reserve will make all the walking you have to do in it worthwhile. Go on Otter trails or if you really want to surround yourself with nature, take a two day dolphin trail that will let you see the unrivalled beauty of Tsitsikamma. Watch the Indian waves crash onto the rocky coastline or just be amazed at the sheer beauty of the last remaining bits of rainforest that once covered the whole coast.

If you want a more modern way to enjoy the beauty of the Garden Route, head on toward Plenttenberg Bay. Almost a dozen nature reserves surround this area, with some of the most amazing marine life such as dolphins and even whales appearing in season. One of the most beautiful towns on the route, it offers beautiful beaches with plenty of outdoor activities to maximize your visit, from scuba diving amongst its beautiful coral and reef, to horse-back riding and paragliding.

Garden route showcases its beauty in an endless possibility of ways, and no matter how you choose to see it, none will leave you disappointed.

By: Orson Johnson
Orson Johnson writes for Holiday Velvet, a website providing Cape Town holiday lets & Holiday accommodation.