George

Heart of the Garden Route

George serves as a great base from which to explore the Garden Route's diverse scenery and many natural wonders. Head south and away from the mountains and within minutes you’ll bliss out on pristine beaches and discover the hidden hamlets of Victoria and Herolds Bay.

©Chris Daly
Garden Route Dam and view of Outeniqua Mountains, George.

George is the heart of the Garden Route and with good reason. It is close to the sea, and besides running along the area’s numerous trails, you can also go mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, big game fishing, hiking, water skiing or paragliding.

The Outeniqua Mountains tower above George, covered in diverse vegetation, the moist southern slopes predominantly clad in mountain fynbos while the northern slopes are much drier, with hardy, drought resistant Karoo veldt. A variety of animal species find shelter here, including the klipspringer, grey rhebuck, numerous small rodents and the elusive leopard. Birds include large raptors such as the black eagle, as well as smaller typical fynbos birds like the Cape sugarbird.

George is a popular holiday destination for those looking to escape city life, enjoy lesuire time or explore the region's outdoor activities. 

By Jacques Marais

Fancourt Golf Estate in George

Fancourt is built around a beautifully restored Victorian manor house, now a National Monument, and therein lies a funny story. Fancourt was...more

George Trail Running

The trail is predominantly a well-maintained hiking trail. The surface is mostly gravel with the odd rocky section. There are some tricky se...more

George: Capital of the Garden Route

George is a golfer's dream destination. The George Golf Club, which has consistently been on the list of the top 10 golf courses in South Af...more

Historical Town of George

George was the first town founded by the British after their second invasion of the Cape in 1806. The town was established in 1811, and name...more

Mountain Biking Trails in George

This steep route meanders along gravel forestry roads through the pine plantations blanketing the foothills of the Outeniqua Mountains....more

Railway in George

On display - and I promise you do not have to be a trainspotter to dig this place - are 13 steam locomotives, including narrow gauge engines...more

Seven Passes Road in the Garden Route

Driving the Passes Road today is an interesting experience. The road zig-zags constantly; down one valley, across the river, and up the othe...more