Garden Route, South Africa
Your complete 5-day itinerary for the Garden Route
Where to stay, eat, shop and play in the Garden Route
Looking for the ultimate 5-day itinerary for the Garden Route? We’re here to help narrow down where to stay, eat, shop and play along the Garden Route, one of South Africa’s most beautiful regions. This itinerary features the must-visit luxury and boutique hotels, top-notch restaurants and the best activities, sights and shops to explore – the only itinerary you need to see the best of the Garden Route in 5 days!
Day 1
15.00
A stay surrounded by nature
Your base for the first night, Botlierskop Private Game Reserve combines luxury and nature seamlessly. This private game reserve offers thatched suites overlooking rolling hills and roaming wildlife. Wake up to the sounds of nature and if you’re lucky, catch glimpses of zebras or giraffes right from your deck. We love the game drive offerings here and the on-site Fijnebos Spa is also worth mentioning, with its stunning design and unique African massages – unwind in nature.
Explore more of the best boutique and luxury hotels along the Garden Route.
Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
Gonnakraal Road
Little Brak River
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Botlierskop Private Game Reserve
16.00
A walk through humanity’s first steps
The Point of Human Origins in Mossel Bay takes you back 160,000 years to the dawn of modern human behaviour. Guided tours explore the archaeological caves at Pinnacle Point, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where early humans crafted tools, harvested seafood and developed cognitive skills. Here you can see ancient artefacts, learn about the climate and ecosystems of the time and understand how these discoveries shape our understanding of humanity’s evolution. The stunning cliffside location adds a dramatic backdrop to this profoundly humbling journey through time.
Point of Human Origins
Pinnacle Point
Mossel Bay
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Point of Human Origins
18.00
Sip in style by the sea
Cocktails with a sea breeze – what’s not to love? The Blue Oyster Cocktail Bar offers a laid-back atmosphere with some of the best views in Mossel Bay. It’s the perfect place to toast your first evening on the Garden Route and we think this is one of the best spots to watch the sunset. This spot serves up innovative cocktails alongside the classics. We love their unique cocktails that are inspired by local flavours like the Rooibos & Honey cocktail that contains tequila, honey, lemon, soda and rooibos syrup – an interesting combination of flavours that just work so well together!
Blue Oyster Cocktail Bar
1 Market St
Mossel Bay
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Blue Oyster Cocktail Bar
20.00
Indulge in a seafood feast
Known as the seafood house of the Garden Route, Café Gannet is the place to indulge in fresh, locally sourced fish and shellfish. Café Gannet is housed in the historic Old Post Office Tree Square complex, but its sun-kissed courtyard with scenic ocean views gives it a Mediterranean feel. At Café Gannet the seafood options are endless, featuring wild coastal oysters, black mussels, crayfish, prawns, sole and kingklip. We also think their sushi is some of the best in town! Try the speciality sushi, especially the Crazy Salmon Roll, trust us it’s simply divine.
Café Gannet
1 Market St
Mossel Bay
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Café Gannet
Day 2
8.00
Get your caffeine fix
Start your day right with a coffee and hearty breakfast at The Merchant Coffee & Eatery. This spot is a local favourite and it’s easy to see why – they serve exceptional coffee and a variety of breakfast classics that hit the spot. Our go-to when visiting this spot is the Eggs Benedict, a breakfast classic that they do very well! We love the dark & moody interiors, brought to life with beautiful wood accents, gold lighting fixtures with dim lighting and lush greenery that brings a pop of colour throughout the restaurant. An aesthetic that perfectly matches their dark roast brews.
The Merchant Coffee & Eatery
78c Bland St
Mossel Bay
South Africa
Photography courtesy of The Merchant Coffee & Eatery
10.00
Soar like a bird
Ready for some adrenaline? Glide above the stunning coastline of Sedgefield with a tandem paragliding experience. The views of the ocean, dunes and lush greenery below will take your breath away – quite literally. This tandem experience is ideal for beginners, as trained instructors handle all the technicalities, leaving you free to take in the sights. The flight typically lasts around 10 minutes, but it feels much longer due to the awe-inspiring views. The sensation of gliding through the sky, feeling the wind on your face and seeing the world from a bird’s-eye perspective is truly unforgettable.
Sedgefield Paragliding
Sedgefield
South Africa
Book now through The African Voyager
12.00
Time for an industrial-chic lunch
Salt & Copper is housed in a converted old mechanical workshop, seamlessly blending industrial-chic aesthetics with stylish interiors. Salt & Copper follows a farm-to-table philosophy, sourcing ingredients from local farmers and producers and their menu reflects this. Some of our lunch favourites here are the Blue Flag pizza featuring parma ham, brie and green figs and the Porka flatbread with slow-roasted pork neck, feta, rocket, chimichurri and sour cream. After lunch pop in at the Copper Lounge, where you can learn about the distilling process and enjoy gin-tasting sessions presented by Harmony Distillery.
Salt & Copper
R102
Hartenbos
Mossel Bay
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Salt & Copper
15.00
Head into the forest
Hidden in the embrace of the forest, Nima Lodge is a boutique hideaway offering cabins perched above the treetops in Wilderness. Designed with sustainability in mind, the lodge features modern Scandinavian-style accommodations equipped with private decks, hot tubs and fireplaces. The panoramic views of the Outeniqua Mountains and indigenous forest are a major draw, as is the lodge’s proximity to hiking trails and natural attractions. Mornings here are magical – wake up to the call of birds and watch the mist rise over the trees – a real treat if you love nature as much as we do!
Explore more of the best boutique and luxury hotels along the Garden Route.
Nima Lodge
Tien Myl Laan
Hoekwil
Wilderness
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Nima Lodge
16.00
Take a peek at nature’s geographic masterpiece
The Map of Africa viewpoint is one of the Garden Route’s most iconic landmarks. From this elevated spot, you’ll see a natural formation where the landscape resembles the African continent. It’s the result of the Kaaimans River carving its way through the lush valley below. The viewpoint also offers panoramic views of the Wilderness coastline and mountains, a must-visit if you are a photographer or just love nature in general. Accessible by a short drive, it’s a must-see for its unique perspective on the area’s stunning topography.
Map of Africa
Hoekwil
Wilderness
South Africa
18.00
Sip & socialise
Ilali Restaurant & Social Bar knows how to create the perfect ambience for cocktails and socialising. Few places bring people together like this spot does. We think it’s due to the inviting atmosphere, stylish interiors and top-notch drinks menu, topped with super service. This is the go-to spot if you are in the mood to kick back and enjoy a beautifully presented cocktail in a setting that’s alive with good vibes. We like the unusual cocktails here, if you are adventurous try the BBB, a unique combination of blackcurrant, basil & beer. The standout cocktail for us is the Village Old Fashioned, which features Monkey Shoulder blended malt scotch whiskey accentuated with a smokey Laphroaig Select.
Ilali Restaurant & Social Bar
197 George Rd
Wilderness
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Ilali Restaurant & Social Bar
20.00
Fine dining on the Touw River
Serendipity Restaurant offers a dining experience, not just a meal. Executive Chef and co-owner Lizelle Stolze, along with her husband Rudolf, founded Serendipity Restaurant in 2001. Lizelle’s culinary passion is deeply rooted in South African produce, which she describes as an amazing indigenous bounty. Her dedication to authentic South African cuisine has earned this restaurant international acclaim, including being named global winner of the 2020 World Luxury Restaurant Awards for South African Cuisine. They offer a 5-course table d’Hote menu that features innovative dishes that are crafted with reimagined local flavours like pigeon, spekboom (South African small-leaved succulent plant) and springbok.
Serendipity Restaurant
1015 Freesia Ave
Wilderness
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Serendipity Restaurant
Day 3
8.00
Slow mornings, perfect French toast
101 Meade Street Restaurant, housed in a beautifully restored building, has gained a cult following for its precision in the kitchen wrapped in a cool, contemporary atmosphere. We love how effortlessly they bring together European elegance and South African heart with their award-winning interior design, featuring warm wood tones and African artworks. The standout on their menu is the brioche French toast, crowned with mascarpone, local honey and a medley of seasonal fruits. If you’re not in a rush, check out their drinks selection – craft gins and local wines that double as the perfect partner for their tapas-style dishes if breakfast flows into brunch. And trust us, that happens easily here.
101 Meade Street Restaurant
101 Meade St
George
South Africa
Photography courtesy of 101 Meade Street Restaurant
10.00
Into the Wilderness
Wilderness is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, where dense forests, golden beaches and winding rivers invite exploration. Wilderness Beach, with its endless stretch of sand and rolling waves, is perfect for long walks, swimming and dolphin spotting. The region is also home to Wilderness National Park, a vast expanse of indigenous forest, wetlands, and fynbos, ideal for hiking, canoeing and birdwatching. Paragliding offers a thrilling aerial perspective, while the Half Collared Kingfisher Trail winds through forest to a peaceful cascade. For a different kind of adventure, we tried a Segway tour with WildX, navigating an off-road track with obstacles and twists – a fun and unique way to explore the landscape.
Wilderness
South Africa
Book now through The African Voyager
12.00
Long lunches, Italian style
Pomodoro is a lively trattoria in the heart of Wilderness Village, where locals and visitors gather for relaxed lunches on the terrace. Owner Claudio Salvatico ensures a warm welcome, while the kitchen serves wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas and antipasti inspired by traditional Italian recipes. Seafood, grills and crisp salads round out the menu, reflecting years of Mediterranean travels. A glass of wine and a plate of homemade ravioli make it easy to settle in and soak up the village atmosphere.
Pomodoro Restaurant
197 George Rd
Wilderness
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Pomodoro Restaurant
15.00
A night with nature on your doorstep
After a day on the road, Alkira Lodge feels like stepping into a sanctuary designed for soul-soothing retreats. The panoramic views of the lagoon and rolling greenery are breathtaking. The architecture feels as though it belongs to the landscape, with earthy tones and open spaces that draw the outside in. Inside, every detail feels thoughtful, with luxurious bedding and expansive windows framing the landscape. Breakfast is a highlight, with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients served on a terrace where you might spot a knysna loerie. The lodge’s amenities include a pool, hot tub jacuzzi, and on-site walking and hiking trails for opportunities to relax.
Explore more of the best boutique and luxury hotels along the Garden Route.
Alkira Lodge
Knysna
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of Alkira Lodge
16.00
Contemporary art in Knysna
Knysna Fine Art, established in 1998 by fifth-generation art dealer Trent Read, is a premier gallery in historic Thesen House, Knysna. It is the largest contemporary gallery in the Western Cape. It showcases a diverse range of contemporary South African art across various media, hosting exhibitions that feature both established and emerging artists. The gallery’s commitment to excellence and its role in promoting local talent has gained international reputation, which in our opinion makes it a must-visit destination if you’re into art.
Knysna Fine Art
Thesen House
6 Long St
Knysna
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Knysna Fine Art
18.00
Cocktails with a view
Nest Food Bar at The Lofts Boutique Hotel on Thesen Island combines soulful design with a contemporary edge. Inside, a striking timber-and-rope structure, nicknamed The Nest, serves as the focal point, echoing the restaurant’s theme of warmth and comfort. The bar is an elegant but beachy affair, with a sleek design and inviting atmosphere. The cocktail menu is suitably crafted for this ideal spot to unwind while soaking in panoramic views and the vibrant energy of central Knysna.
Nest Food Bar
Long St
Knysna
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Nest Food Bar
20.00
Casual dining by the beach
Head back out to Brenton-on-Sea and the Butterfly Blu Restaurant, where panoramic ocean views fresh, locally sourced seafood and South African-inspired dishes await! The menu also includes highlights such as handcrafted Croatian-style pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven. The relaxed yet elegant atmosphere makes it a beautiful spot to wind down and sum-up the day’s adventures while overlooking the stunning stretch of white sandy beach below.
Butterfly Blu Restaurant
198 State President C R Swart Rd
Knysna
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Butterfly Blu Restaurant
Day 4
8.00
Breakfast for the hungry
Start your day in Knysna at île de païn, located on Thesen Island. The vibrant café-style restaurant is known for its heary breakfasts and artisanal breads. The interior features a warm, welcoming atmosphere with an open-plan design that provides unobstructed views of the bustling bakery and kitchen. If you’re the hungry kind, we highly recommend the Boatshed Breakfast, featuring an organic soft-boiled farm egg with baguette soldiers and the French Toast, made with brioche, berry compôte and mascarpone cream. For a more Euro-style breakfast, the café also serves freshly baked pastries and a variety of specialty coffees and teas.
Île de Païn
Long St
Knysna
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Île de Païn
10.00
The Knysna lagoon experience
Whether or not you are a nature enthusiast or not, experiencing a lagoon cruise in Knysna offers a unique perspective of this picturesque coastal town as well as serene relaxation! As you glide through the tranquil waters, you’ll encounter the impressive sandstone cliffs of the Knysna Heads, secluded coves and diverse birdlife along with tales of the area’s rich history and ecology. Some operators offer local delicacies like fresh oysters and South African wines, all while watching the natural beauty around you.
Knysna
South Africa
Book now through The African Voyager
12.00
Asian fusion lunch
So it has become lunchtime and your final meal in Knysna. Bao Wow offers a fun dining experience with its Asian fusion cuisine. The modern and inviting interior, featuring communal seating, makes for a lively atmosphere. The menu showcases a variety of bao buns and rice bowls, popular (and irresistible to us!) choices like the Korean Fried Chicken bao and Crispy Chilli Tofu Bowl, delivering bold and authentic flavours. The open kitchen design allows diners to observe the preparation of their meals, adding an interactive element to the experience. With its friendly staff and efficient service, Bao Wow Knysna has become a go-to spot for both locals and visitors seeking a quick, satisfying meal.
Bao Wow
53 Main Rd
Knysna
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Bao Wow
15.00
A heritage hotel
The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa is a restored national monument dating back to 1777. Now, made into a stylish boutique hotel, it features 18 suites, each with private outdoor spaces. The location, right by the beach, does not disappoint! The on-site restaurant, 1777, offers a bistro-inspired menu that gives a nod to the hotel’s heritage. After check-in, you can unwind at the tranquil in-house spa, which provides a range of treatments and therapies. The hotel’s sparkling swimming pool and deck is shaded by ancient milkwood trees.
Explore more of the best boutique and luxury hotels along the Garden Route.
The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa
2 Bull St
Plettenberg Bay
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of The Old Rectory Hotel & Spa
16.00
Discovering a nature reserve
If you’re heading to Plettenberg Bay, and feel like getting a little exercise surrounded by beautiful nature, you absolutely need to visit Robberg Nature Reserve. It’s this stunning coastal reserve with rugged cliffs, unspoiled beaches and spectacular views. The hiking trails are diverse and offer choices from an easy stroll or a more challenging loop. Along the way, you might spot seals basking on the rocks or even dolphins offshore. The fynbos here is incredible, and there’s a real sense of untouched beauty. It’s also a national monument, so there’s some fascinating history to uncover.
Robberg Nature Reserve
Robberg
South Africa
17.00
Looms in motion, textiles with soul
Mungo Mill is a contemporary textile mill that blends traditional weaving techniques with modern design. Founded by master weaver Stuart Holding, the mill is housed in a distinctive building featuring a wooden slatted façade inspired by the overlapping warp threads of a loom. You are welcome to visit the mill’s open production floor, observing the artisans operating beautifully restored looms that span various weaving eras. The mill produces a range of heirloom-quality homeware textiles, all woven from natural fibres. To buy the beautiful wares, head to the Old Nick Village, just outside Plettenberg, where the Mungo flagship store is located.
Mungo Mill
N2
Plettenberg Bay
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Mungo Mill
18.00
An elevated retreat for cocktail enthusiasts
The Palms Plett is a well known spot thanks to its lively cocktail bar – a stylish space with a relaxed atmosphere. From its elevated position, you can kick back and relax, overlooking the Keurbooms Lagoon while the bartender serves expertly crafted cocktails. Standout options include their signature Palms Martini and the tropical-inspired Passionfruit Mojito. The mixologists are attentive and skilled, and will offer a bespoke concoction if you are inclined to explore new flavours. The rooftop setting, complete with comfortable seating and warm lighting, creates an ideal spot for sunset drinks or late-night gatherings.
The Palms Plett
31 Main St
Plettenberg Bay
South Africa
Photography courtesy of The Palms Plett
20.00
Sustainable seafood with a twist
The Fat Fish presents a contemporary dining experience with a focus on sustainably sourced seafood. The restaurant’s modern architecture features clean lines and an inviting atmosphere, enhanced by a nautically themed interior design. The menu offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including delicate sushi platters and innovative tapas. Signature offerings include the renowned Fat Fish & Chips, available during lunch specials. The bar provides a curated list of wines and cocktails, complementing the culinary offerings. With attentive and friendly service The Fat Fish is a great way to end your day.
The Fat Fish
22 Hopwood St
Plettenberg Bay
South Africa
Photography courtesy of The Fat Fish
Day 5
8.00
Breakfast in the spirit of France
It is the morning after the day before, and your stomach is growling. May we suggest Le Fournil de Plett for some sustenance? Le Fournil de Plett is a charming French bakery and café nestled in Plettenberg Bay’s Lookout Centre Courtyard that most definitely will provide. We recommend al fresco seating in a picturesque courtyard, complemented by a deck offering panoramic ocean views in summer and the cosy indoor space with a welcoming fireplace for cooler days. The menu features freshly baked artisanal breads, croissants and pastries, all crafted on-site using stone-ground organic flour. Breakfast options include eggs Benedict, French Toast and much more, complemented by coffee from Truth Coffee.
Le Fournil de Plett
18 Main St
Plettenberg Bay
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Le Fournil de Plett
10.00
Whale watching in Plettenberg Bay
Embarking on a whale-watching tour in Plettenberg Bay offers an intimate encounter with marine giants in their natural habitat. From June to November, Southern Right and Humpback whales frequent these waters, providing spectacular viewing opportunities. Tours typically last around two hours and begin with an exhilarating beach launch, setting the tone for an adventurous experience. Alongside whales, sightings often include dolphins, seals and a multitude of seabirds! Knowledgeable guides share insights into whale behaviours and the local ecosystem for some educational content of the journey!
Plettenberg Bay
South Africa
Book now through The African Voyager
12.00
A South African take on smokehouse cuisine
Barrington’s in Plettenberg Bay is a multifaceted venue featuring a craft brewery, brasserie, bar, small hotel and kitchen garden. We love how the architecture melds into a warm, casual and elegant atmosphere. For lunch, the brasserie offers a menu that includes slow-cooked, pulled free-range meats prepared in a custom-made smoker, paired with fresh, indigenous regional ingredients, including produce from Barrington’s own kitchen garden. Signature dishes feature a uniquely South African take on smokehouse cuisine. The bar complements the dining experience with a selection of craft beers brewed on-site. Barrington’s will absolutely get you ready for your next leg of the journey!
Barrington’s
Erf 2104 Piesang Valley Rd
Plettenberg Bay
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Barrington’s
15.00
Full transparency: the Tsitsikama pyramid
The Tsitsikamma Pyramid is a unique, fully transparent structure built within the indigenous Tsitsikamma forest and 230 metres above sea level. Staying in this glass pyramid naturally offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding forest and mountainscape. Inside, the open-plan area features a comfortable queen-size bed, seating, a kitchenette equipped with a bar fridge and microwave and two sunken baths side by side. If you’d rather have a shower, it can be enjoyed outdoors, with stunning forest views. It does not end there. Out on the wooden deck there’s a Jacuzzi and day loungers. A gas braai is available if you feel like doing some outdoor cooking. If not, there is an excellent on-site restaurant that serves African cuisine.
Explore more of the best boutique and luxury hotels along the Garden Route.
The Tsitsikamma Pyramid
Farm 438 Storms River
Tsitsikamma
South Africa
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Photography courtesy of The Tsitsikamma Pyramid
16.00
Hidden caves and cliffs on Storms River
Tubing or kayaking on the Storms River is one of the most thrilling ways to experience the heart of Tsitsikamma National Park. The adventure begins at the river’s mouth, where you paddle through dark waters flanked by towering cliffs covered in vegetation. The river’s natural beauty captures your attention immediately, with the steep canyon walls and overhanging trees creating a calm atmosphere. As you glide deeper into the gorge, the waters give way to hidden caves and a sense of untamed wilderness. Many guided tours also include an opportunity to switch from kayaks to inflatable lilos, allowing you to explore narrower sections of the gorge.
Storms River
Tsitsikamma
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Stockholm Stadshotell
Book now through The African Voyager
18.00
Brews, not cocktails
This area may not be the epicenter for craft cocktails, but delivers when it comes to wine and beer! Tsitsikamma Micro Brewery, established in April 2014, has established itself as a unique tap room where you can sample a variety of locally crafted ales, including Storms River Ale, Redwood Ale, Woodcutters Ale and Baines Black Ale. Adhering to the 1487 German Reinheitsgebot (Purity Law), the beers are brewed using only barley, hops and water from the brewery’s own well. The tasting room also offers products from other craft breweries, providing a selection of over 28 beers, and holds an off-sales licence. We can’t recommend this place enough for a cool beverage on a hot day!
Tsitsikamma Micro Brewery
Darnell St
Stormsrivier
South Africa
20.00
Dinner on the edge
Dinner with a more spectacular setting is hard to find. Overlooking the wild coastline of Tsitsikamma National Park, Cattle Baron – a sits above the waves at Storms River Mouth Restcamp. It is part of the well-known Cattle Baron group, which has been serving quality steaks and seafood across South Africa since 1987. The menu highlights their renowned aged steaks, including the signature Chateaubriand, alongside fresh seafood platters, grilled line fish and oysters with bubbly.
Cattle Baron
Main Camp Tsitsikamma National Park
Stormsrivier
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Cattle Baron
Day 6
8.00
Breakfast under the orange trees
The name says it all – ‘Ts’ for Tsitsikamma, ‘sitrus’ for the orange trees that shade the garden. At Tsitrus Café, breakfast is a laid-back affair, whether you’re enjoying a smoothie bowl under the trees or tucking into one of their famous pot pies, a dish so beloved people drive miles for it. The cosy interior, warmed by a wood-burning pizza oven, invites lingering over coffee, while the garden offers a peaceful escape with mountain views. After breakfast, browse the café’s collection of local crafts and handmade gifts.
Tsitrus Café
43 Gammasi St,
Stormsrivier
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Tsitrus Café
10.00
Walk on the wild side
The Storms River Mouth Bridge, a suspension bridge spanning 77 metres, is one of the must-visit landmarks in Tsitsikamma National Park. Located where the Storms River meets the ocean, the bridge offers you breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the churning waters below. Getting to the bridge involves a relatively easy hike through the park’s coastal forest, where you’ll pass through Indigenous vegetation and might even spot wildlife like dassies or colourful birds. Once on the bridge, the experience is exhilarating – it sways slightly with the motion of your steps, adding a bit of adventure to your walk. The viewpoint just beyond the bridge is the perfect spot for photos, with panoramic views of the river gorge and the Indian Ocean.
Storms River Mouth Bride
Stormsrivier
South Africa
Book now through The African Voyager
12.00
Have a kitschy slice of Americana
Jukeboxes, checkered floors, and neon lights – just go with the flow and embrace the kitsch at Marilyn’s 60’s Diner in Storms River Village. Classic Cadillacs and Chevys set the scene, with Elvis and Marilyn Monroe keeping watch from the walls. The menu sticks to the all-American playbook: towering burgers, hot dogs with a twist, thick milkshakes and diner-style desserts. Cocktails channel the rock ’n’ roll era, best enjoyed with a soundtrack of golden oldies.
Marilyn’s 60’s Diner
108 Darnell St
Stormsrivier
South Africa
Photography courtesy of Marilyn’s 60’s Diner
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