GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Route 12 is not just a road, it’s an experience waiting to unfold.
Join us on this journey through the 12 iconic towns that make up the greater Iconic Mossel Bay
area.
Here, you can discover untouched beaches, beautiful scenery, cultural landmarks and countless activities.
Take a drive and witness the untold majesty of our region. The route includes:
Fransmanshoek
Shaped to form a peninsula and home to the oldest active conservancy in the Western Cape, Fransmanshoek is known for several of its famous fishing sites. The area (‘Fransman’ meaning Frenchman) got its name from the French man o’ war, La Fortune, which sank here in 1763. Enjoy its untouched beaches, picturesque
picnic spots and mysterious cloverleaf labyrinth.
Vleesbaai
Vleesbaai is an idyllic holiday getaway with endless beaches, safe swimming spots and leisurely walking trails.
It is also one of the best places for dolphin and whale watching while being a fan-favourite for surfers and body boarders with its gentle swells and five-foot waves.
Boggoms Bay
Boggomsbaai is a small, tranquil seaside village with long sandy beaches, spectacular birdlife and excellent whalewatching opportunities. Its iconic beach forms part of the Oystercatcher Trail. Known for its fishing spots and nature reserve, the area is a must-visit for families and animal lovers alike.
Dana Bay
Welcome to Dana Bay, a picturesque seaside village and conservancy, set in the heart of the Cape floral kingdom and home to many coastal and limestone varieties of fynbos. Famous for its birdlife, it’s home to a colony of black oystercatchers. Enjoy miles of tranquil white-sand beaches, legendary sunsets and beautiful
coastline views. It’s the ultimate beach getaway.
Hartenbos
Hartenbos was established in 1730 when a ship was stranded inshore. A local farmer alerted the authorities
of the ship’s misfortune and as compensation, the Dutch East India Company granted him a farm, which he called ‘Hart en Bosch’ (deer and bush). By 1933, the South African Railways and Harbours turned this tract of land into a resort town. Today this family haven is known for its iconic beachside walkway, golden beaches and memorable camping spots.
Mossel Bay
Mossel Bay is a picturesque coastal town in the heart of the Southern Cape and the gateway to the Garden Route. With its stunning beaches, rugged coastline, rich maritime history and fascinating cultural landmarks, it’s sure to captivate and inspire visitors. There are also numerous activities and restaurants to enjoy, making this a must-visit destination for those in search of an iconic experience.
Little Brak River
This seaside resort town at the mouth of the Little Brak River has spectacular views of Botlierskop. The
outcrop’s mushroom-like rock formations are covered in fynbos. It is a major landmark in the area and a tourist must-see. Little Brak River is also known for its Blue Flag beach and beautiful lagoon.
Great Brak River
Around the lagoon of the serpentine Great Brak River, visitors can enjoy sweeping panoramic views and
beautiful, unspoilt beaches. The town is also home to quaint shops and eateries, and its surrounds offer
numerous art, cycling and hiking routes.
Glentana
Glentana was established in the early 20th century and is thought to be named after a type of whiskey brewed in Northern Scotland. This area is known for its shipwreck – the floating dock of a British steamer that ran aground along Glentana Beach in 1902.
Friemersheim
Founded by a German missionary in the early 19th century and set up as a mission station, Friemersheim
is home to a Dutch Reformed Church built in 1870 and the founders of the Volkwyn chair. It is well known
for its beautiful large wildlife murals, painted by local artist Fourie Ackermann. By bringing the walls to life,
Ackermann has put the area back on the map!
Herbertsdale
The historic village of Herbertsdale was established before the Second Boer War on a farm called
Hemelrood, and was named after the owner, James Benton Herbert. The area is known for its witblits (South
African moonshine) and its lush farmlands.
Ruiterbos
Ruiterbos, a beautiful, undiscovered valley at the foot of the Robinson Pass between Mossel Bay and
Oudtshoorn, is known for its quaint shops and farm stalls, scenic drives, hiking trails and 4×4 routes. It is an
absolute must-see for bird lovers and fynbos enthusiasts.
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