Things to Do in Rondevlei

Set within the stunning Wilderness National Park and on the shores of Langvlei, the Malachite Bird Hide is definitely worth a visit for twitchers and nature lovers. Spend some time watching the numerous waterfowl, kingfishers and other birds in this beautiful environment.

Monkey about and swing like Tarzan in the treetops between Wilderness and Sedgefield. Acrobranch will have you moving from tree to tree doing fun exercises that test your balance, strength and focus. Acrobranch's WildWoods Tree Adventure is suitable for anyone between 2 to 77 years or older. +27 (0) 78 251 4458 www.acrobranch.co.za

Timberlake is a village of specialist cabin-style shops in the heart of the Garden Route. Here you can shop for sweet and spicy treats, cheese, wine, health products, ‘Faerie’ gems, and plants at Eden Nursery. Stop at Cafe d'Afrique coffee shop for award-winning cheesecake, Zucchini restaurant for hearty country-style meals, the Country Deli for traditional South African takeaways, and the Oyster Shack for fresh wild coastal oysters. Timberlake supports local producers and the Slow Food principles of good, clean and fair. Salad ingredients are picked fresh from their onsite organic gardens. Extensive kids facilities include a racetrack, jungle gym, trampoline, tame goats, the Fantasy Garden walk and more. www.timberlakeorganic.co.za

One of the least demanding walks in the Wilderness area, the 5 km Brownhooded Kingfisher Trail follows the meandering course of the Duiwe River. Lush river woodlands line the riverbanks and the path crosses the river frequently. Take care when crossing after the river has flooded – particularly on wet slippery rocks. After a short distance the trail branches off along the tree-lined Klein Keurbooms River to the turning point – a beautiful rock pool. This lovely setting is perfect for a leisurely picnic and cooling off on a hot day. Knysna turacos are frequently heard and seen flapping between the treetops. Other birds to look out for are fish eagles, Martial eagles, Cape Battis, Burchell’s Coucal, Cape robin, little egrets and the brownhooded kingfisher. Permits are self-issuing at the entrance gate. A small fee is usually charged in peak season.

Named after the perky black and white kingfisher with a distinctive noisy call, this rambling route is perfect for whiling away a few peaceful hours around the Wilderness Lagoon. Starting at the Ebb and Flow South Restcamp, this mellow 10-kilometre trail follows the Serpentine River floodplain. Depending on the weather, the route can be done in reverse starting early in the morning along the two-kilometre sandy beach section. The boardwalk section runs along the Wilderness Lagoon to the Touw River mouth. Interesting information boards describe the numerous kingfishers that live along this shoreline.

Starting next to the railway bridge near the Ebb and Flow North Restcamp on the Touw River, the Half-collared Kingfisher Trail replaces the Giant Kingfisher Trail. Step right into superb woodlands of indigenous yellowwoods, white stinkwood, white milkwood, wild pear, climbers, lichens, flowering bulbs and ferns. Numerous species of trees are labelled along the way, enhancing the experience of forest diversity. Look out for the brilliantly coloured half-collared kingfisher for which the trail is named. Other forest specials to twitch about are the Knysna turaco (loerie), Narina trogon, brown-hooded kingfisher, dusky flycatcher, blue-mantled crested-flycatcher and tambourine dove. Take a break at one of the rustic picnic spots next to the river bank. Interesting display boards identify some of the woodland-dwelling birds and animals that are frequently seen. The trail leads to a waterfall and rock pool which is a great spot to cool off before returning on the same path. The 7.2km return route is not strenuous and usually takes three hours. Permits are required – there is a pay entrance at Ebb and Flow.

In the heart of South Africa's lush Garden Route, a captivating world of lakes, rivers, estuaries and beachesgently unfolds against a backdrop of lush forest and lofty mountains – all elements that characterise the Wilderness National Park. Walking trails wind through densely wooded forest and along tranquil rivers, affording you the opportunity to encounter the brilliantly coloured Knysna lourie, or one of the five kingfisher species that occur here. During spring, a carpet of flowers, further enhance the verdant beauty of this national park. Looking for an action packed holiday adventure? Then, Wilderness is your playground. Experience whales and dolphins from Dolphin Point. Hire a canoe or bicycle, go abseiling, kloofing, paragliding or hang-gliding. Go boating, fishing at Island Lake or hike to the waterfall above Ebb and Flow Restcamp. You do not have to be super fit to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. There are loads of activities for young, old, energetic or idle. Stroll along a forest path or visit the bird hide and discover the wealth of bird life. Lie back in a canoe on a quiet backwater and watch the world float by. Wilderness National Park stretches from the Touw River mouth to the Swartvlei estuary and beyond, where it links with the Goukamma Nature Reserve, giving welcome protection to five lakes and the Serpentine, which is the winding strip of water joining Island Lake to the Touw River at the Ebb-and-flow Restcamp.

Every Saturday morning this authentic farmers' and producers market is brimming with the Garden Route's choicest locally produced foods, both the take-home and breakfast variety. Wild Oats Community Farmers Market is situated on the outskirts of the tiny coastal village of Sedgefield adjacent to the beautiful Swartvlei Lagoon. Earning numerous awards, the small and rustic market continues to attract enthusiastic proud locals and discerning travelers who come to grab a hearty breakfast, and purchase local produce, food, art and curios. This vibrant initiative draws people from diverse backgrounds together for an unusual festive gathering with an emphasis on important educational experiences – local food sources, nutrition, environmental awareness and agricultural issues. Open every Saturday 07:30 – 11:30 in summer, 08:00 – 11:30 in winter.

Popular with locals and nature lovers, Gericke’s Point is one of the Garden Route’s best-kept secrets. You can easily spend an entire day in this stunning and fascinating place. This rocky landmark resembles a lion’s head and the top offers a great vantage point to watch Southern Right whales during their calving season. You might even see the resident pod of Humpback dolphins that frequent the Swartvlei bay. Shy of boats, they avoid harbour areas and that is probably why they keep returning to this lovely quiet bay. Gericke’s Point has impressive weathered sandstone cliffs that are actually fossilised dunes – some of the highest dunes in South Africa are right here. Colonies of Cape and White Breasted Cormorants nest on the cliffs. Seagulls, herons and oystercatchers can often be seen from the shore. At low tide the exposed rock pools are fascinating to explore – take along the excellent Two Oceans - field guide to South Africa's marine life. The deeper pools are great for snorkeling and swimming. Keen for a nocturnal beach adventure? Do a guided ‘Moonlight Meander’ from Swartvlei Beach to Gericke’s Point with local expert, Judy Dixon and witness the nocturnal antics of rocky coastline creatures. Moonlight Meander & Starlight Stroll – contact Judy Dixon +27 (0) 44 883 1015

Swartvlei Beach is an amazing sandy beach for walking or horse riding – make sure you go all the way to Gericke’s Point. The walk to the point offers great opportunities for whale and dolphin watching. Look out for pods of common, bottlenose and humpback dolphins surfing the waves. Southern Right whales can be seen from July to October. This spectacular beach is also the breeding ground for the rare African Black Oyster Catcher. There are some lovely safe swimming spots but exercise caution – there can be riptides and dangerous currents.

Wilderness Beach is unspoilt, safe and breathtakingly beautiful. Warm Indian Ocean waves break onto this golden sandy beach that stretches for seemingly endless kilometres. Time almost stands still as the hours slip by while you wander and enjoy this coastal Eden and its creatures. It's a good spot for whale and dolphin watching.

Sedgefield Beach is an easy stroll down a boardwalk from the parking area. This family-friendly beach offers great swimming in the lagoon mouth and has spectacular views. Also known as Kingfisher Creek, the lagoon is a fun spot for little kids to paddle about. Picnic alongside the estuary – there is shelter from prevailing wind and you can easily spend the entire day here. Ablution and shower facilities are easily accessible.

One of the Garden Route’s best-kept secrets, the golden sandy beach at Myoli has much to offer. The beach itself is conveniently situated near a restaurant, beach bar, parking and a good selection of holiday accommodation. Myoli Beach is one of the top wave-riding beaches along this coast, drawing surfers, kite surfers, wake boarders and stand-up paddlers. It’s also a great place to chill out, sip on cocktails at the PiliPili Beach Bar, spot dolphins or watch whales from the observation platform.

Cola Beach is one of Sedgefield’s five beautiful beaches, all running into each other starting at Swartvlei Beach in the west to Platbank in the east. It never gets crowded, even in peak season. At low tide, it’s easy to walk the 6 km stretch. Access to Cola Beach is via a long boardwalk with a decent viewpoint and bench at the top. Rock and surf fishing is a popular activity, with a number of good spots at rocky points towards Platbank and Groenvlei.

Set in a stunning cove enclosed by rugged cliffs, Victoria Bay Beach is one of the smallest and most hidden bays on the Garden Route. Travelling from the N2 it is only 3km away, roughly situated between George and Wilderness. A number of cottages are clustered along the beach front. The gently-sloping tiny sandy beach offers safe swimming as well as big waves in deeper water that provide surfers with a long ride.

Conveniently situated near George Airport at the confluence of the N2 highway and Knysna Road, Garden Route Mall is a vibrant regional shopping centre providing locals and visitors a relaxed one-stop shopping experience. The new elegant shopping centre offers easy access to all entrances from 3 000 parking bays and top-notch security. Shop till you drop at a selection of 125 shops, including big-name brands such as Woolworths, Truworths, Pick n Pay, Game and Queenspark as well as speciality shops and numerous restaurants. Monday - Friday 09:00 - 18:00 Saturday 09:00 - 17:00 Sundays and Public Holidays 09:00 - 15:00

Get far away from the madding crowds and discover one of the Garden Route’s best kept secrets. Long kept under wraps, this gentle and serene protected coastal reserve is guaranteed to nurture your soul. Goukamma Nature Reserve incorporates a long beach, extensive high dune field, the Goukamma River and estuary as well as the self-contained Groenvlei Lake. The coastline stretches for 14 km and the adjoining marine protected area extends out to the ocean for 1.8 km. Bring your snorkelling gear and explore the lovely rock pools at Rowwehoek. A network of hiking trails traverses a diverse range of habitats for birds, mammals and marine life. Cape clawless otter, grysbok, bushbuck, bush pig, porcupine, bushbaby, Cape dune mole rat, caracal and honey badger all live in this paradise. Most of the animals are quite timid and difficult to spot but you will see plenty of droppings and spoor on the trails. The coastline offers excellent whale watching from July to December and dolphins are frequently spotted surfing the waves. The area is great for birdwatching with more than 220 recorded bird species. The Goukamma River has a number of picnic sites and braai spots. Bring your own firewood.

Take a trip down memory lane at the Outeniqua Transport Museum. You will be able to see 13 different steam locomotives including a narrow gauge, the Emil Kessler- Johannesburg’s first steam locomotive and the impressive GL Garrett. Also on view are beautiful old carriages such as a coach from the Royal Train of 1947, Paul Kruger’s coach and private saloons. A photographic exhibition displays stunning photos of South African steam. There’s also train travel poetry and displays of crockery and cutlery previously used on main line trains and station restaurants. Road motor vehicles and a private vintage car collection complete the displays. Summer season (1 September to 30 April) Daily excluding Sundays 08:00 – 17:00 Off peak season (1 May to 31 August) Mon to Friday 08:00 – 16:00 Sat 08:00 – 14:00 Closed Sundays 2 Mission Street, George +27 (0) 44 801 8288

Dinner theatre aficionados in George have a new state-of-the-art theatre to visit for good times, delicious food and quality entertainment. The Kalahari Restaurant and Theatre opened its doors in September 2010 to cater for discerning theatre fans and music lovers in the Garden Route. The 400 seater theatre will stage the latest productions from the main circuit in a warm and friendly environment. The theatre complex houses a separate bar and a 120-seater family restaurant with an outdoor deck. A beautiful grand piano mounted on a circular stage steals the limelight in the restaurant which also functions as a cocktail bar and entertainment area. Bookings for shows can be done at the theatre or through Computicket. Patrons are advised to pre-order snack platters and pizzas to enjoy in the theatre.

This magnificent indigenous forest trail leads down to enormous rock pools. Pack your rucksack with a picnic and swimming costume. Amble through the forest and learn its secrets. You will be blown away once the forest canopy opens to reveal the beautiful pools sparkling in the sunlight. It is roughly a 40-minute walk there. The last 10 minutes are rather steep but manageable for most people. Suitable for kids who are able to swim.Need to know? Since this is an ecologically sensitive area, permits from SANParks (South African National Parks) are needed. Only 12 persons per day are permitted. It is patrolled and fines are issued where appropriate. Pre-book your chosen date in advance directly with Cathy at Sanparks (044 302 5606). Permits can also be obtained from the permit hut at the entrance to Goudveld Forest, or enquire at Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat reception.Source: Forest Edge Nature Lovers’ Retreat