Garden Route, South Africa
The most scenic drives along the Garden Route
Unforgettable Garden Route drives: a journey through the best scenic routes
Planning a road trip along the Garden Route is a must when visiting South Africa and taking the scenic route is advised for an adventure through some of South Africa’s most beautiful and historically rich roads. These scenic drives along the Garden Route promise breathtaking mountains, forests and coastlines that will have your camera roll full in no time. Buckle up as we guide you through the most beautiful scenic drives throughout the Garden Route region. Trust us, the routes we’ve explored here will leave a lasting impression.
01
Montagu Pass
Montagu Pass, located between George and Herold, is South Africa’s oldest unaltered pass still in use. Constructed between 1844 and 1847 using convict labour, this 7.4-kilometre route was a masterpiece of its time, replacing the treacherous Cradock Pass. As you navigate its narrow, winding gravel path, you’re treated to panoramic views of the Outeniqua Mountains, with lush ferns and indigenous flora lining the way. The stone bridges and original dry-stone retaining walls stand as testaments to 19th-century engineering prowess. Driving through, we can’t help but imagine the ox-wagons that once traversed this route, connecting the coast to the interior. It’s a journey back in time and a must-visit if you like a bit of history alongside natural beauty.
Montagu Pass
George
South Africa
02
Knysna to Plettenberg Bay
The drive from Knysna to Plettenberg Bay is an easy 34-kilometre stretch along the N2, showcasing the Garden Route’s coastal beauty. As you set out from Knysna, renowned for its lagoon and dense forests, the journey begins with the scenery of the Knysna Heads. These towering sea cliffs mark the entrance to the lagoon and offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Make sure to take a moment at the Knysna Heads viewpoint to soak in the views. Along this route you will also find the Garden of Eden, a forest sanctuary filled with boardwalks that lead you through ancient trees and pristine nature – it’s worth a stop and visit! You can also stop over at Nature’s Valley, a secluded coastal village in the Tsitsikamma National Park that boasts untouched beaches and forests. Finally, as you approach Plettenberg Bay, the landscape opens up to reveal golden beaches and the sparkling waters of the bay. Don’t miss a visit to the Robberg Nature Reserve, where you can hike the trails for spectacular views and spot seals and dolphins.
Knysna to Plettenberg Bay
Knysna
South Africa
03
Seven Passes Road
The Seven Passes Road, an 80-kilometre journey between George and Knysna, is a testament to the ingenuity of master road builder Thomas Bain. Completed in 1883, this route traverses seven rivers, each with its own pass: Kaaimans, Silver River, Touw River, Hoogekraal, Karatara, Homtini and Phantom. Kaaimansgat Pass is one of the spots where you should stop to admire the dramatic sights of the Kaaimans River Gorge. As you continue, the road winds through the indigenous forests of the Wilderness National Park, where you might spot some wildlife and birds. The Silver River Pass is also worth stopping at to view the historical stone bridges and Hoogekraal and Homtini Passes offer more forested scenery. The winding roads and hairpin bends make for an exciting driving experience! As you approach the end of the route near Knysna, Phantom Pass offers stunning views of the Knysna Lagoon and the Outeniqua Mountains in the distance.
Seven Passes Road
George
South Africa
04
Bloukrans Pass
Situated between Plettenberg Bay and Jeffreys Bay, Bloukrans Pass is a quiet escape off the beaten path. This narrow, winding pass descends into the Bloukrans River valley, offering a serene drive through indigenous forests and steep ravines. The pass was once part of the N2 but has since been bypassed by a modern bridge, leaving it a tranquil route for those seeking solitude and a bit of adventure. If you are an adrenaline junkie, make a stop at the Bloukrans Bridge, which spans the Bloukrans River, where you can go bungee jumping. At 216 meters, it’s the highest commercial bungee jump in the world, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience with unmatched views.
Bloukrans Pass
Plettenberg Bay
South Africa
05
Swartberg Pass
Swartberg Pass, connecting Oudtshoorn to Prince Albert, is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular and well-known mountain passes in South Africa. It is the masterpiece of the brilliant engineer and road builder, Thomas Charles Bain and the last of the seventeen passes he built in the Cape Province. Completed in 1888, this gravel road climbs over 1,500 meters above sea level, offering dramatic views of jagged cliffs and the vast Karoo plains. Despite the challenging drive, the reward is unparalleled. One of the highlights along the route is the Wall of Fire, a striking rock face that glows in shades of red and orange during sunrise and sunset. The pass also provides access to some of the region’s best hiking trails, including the challenging trek to the summit of Swartberg Peak.
Swartberg Pass
Oudtshoorn
South Africa
Share this
Book your stay
Stay in the know
Sign up for the latest hotspot news from Southern Africa.
Advertisement
African tastemakers