Hello Garden Routers, old and new!
There’s a particular magic in the air this time of year. You can feel it in the crisp morning breeze that still carries a hint of winter, but gives way to the glorious, sun-drenched afternoons that define a Garden Route spring. It’s a season of renewal, a time when our corner of the world seems to wake up and show off its most vibrant colours. The fynbos, that resilient and uniquely beautiful flora of our Cape Floral Kingdom, is bursting into a kaleidoscope of blooms across the mountainsides and coastal plains. And out in the bays, from Mossel Bay to Plettenberg, the Southern Right whales have returned, breaching and tail-slapping in a spectacular display that reminds us of the profound wildness that still graces our shores.
Thanks for reading Garden Route Weekly! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
This natural rebirth coincides beautifully with a month of deep cultural and social significance. September is Heritage Month in South Africa, a time to celebrate the rich tapestry of traditions, histories, and stories that make up our rainbow nation. Here in the Garden Route, our heritage is inextricably linked to the land and sea. It’s a heritage written in the ancient forests, the pristine estuaries, and the dramatic 300-kilometre coastline that shapes our lives and inspires our visitors.
That’s why this September feels especially poignant. It’s not just about looking back; it’s about looking around and looking forward. This month, we also observe Arbor Week, a call to plant indigenous trees and restore the green canopy that is our region’s namesake. It is also International Coastal Clean-up Month, an invitation for us all—locals and visitors alike—to become custodians of our magnificent beaches and waterways.
So, this week, we invite you to celebrate heritage in its fullest sense. Plant a tree, join a beach clean-up, hike through the blooming fynbos, or simply find a clifftop spot to watch the whales. In doing so, you’re not just an observer of the Garden Route’s beauty; you are an active participant in its living, breathing story. Welcome to September. Let’s make it a memorable one. But before we dive in, consider subscribing to free weekly updates!
The Buzz: Your Unmissable Garden Route Events Calendar
The energy of spring is palpable, and our regional calendar is absolutely packed with events to match. This week alone offers a dizzying array of choices, from a celestial discussion with a former NASA astronaut in Mossel Bay to a funk-filled party in Knysna. Whether you’re looking to engage your mind, move your feet, or support a great local cause, there is truly something for everyone. The sheer variety of events highlights the unique cultural geography of our region; each town contributes its own distinct flavour to the Garden Route’s vibrant social life. Mossel Bay is buzzing as a hub for arts and fascinating talks, while Knysna’s venues are cementing its reputation as the go-to spot for contemporary live music.
This Week’s Highlights (8–14 September)
Monday, 8 September | Plettenberg Bay
Bird lovers and the intellectually curious, this one’s for you. BirdLife Plettenberg Bay hosts Dr. Gerhard Verdoorn for a fascinating presentation titled “Vultures: God’s Clowns.” Dr. Verdoorn, a renowned organic chemist and toxicologist, will delve into the world of these often-misunderstood birds. The evening starts at 5:45 PM at the Plett Country Club. Tickets are R50 for members and R60 for non-members for the talk only. For a full evening, you can book for the talk and a delicious dinner (German Pork Goulash or a vegetarian option) for R200 (members) or R220 (non-members). Bookings are essential.
Wednesday, 10 September | George
Get ready for a night of exceptional South African talent for a wonderful cause. The one and only Emo Adams is performing live at the George Town Hall. Described as “Tall dark and Afrikaans!”, Emo’s performance is a fundraiser for the Carpe Diem School. The evening will also feature the superb harmonies of the George Men’s Choir. It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy a top-tier show while supporting a vital local institution.
Wednesday, 10 September & Saturday, 13 September | Mossel Bay
As part of the ongoing Mossel Bay Arts Month, Dana Bay Community Hall is hosting a series of Arts and Crafts Workshops on Wednesday from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. It’s a fantastic chance to learn a new skill, from macrame to wood art.11 Then on Saturday night, get ready to be blown away at ReedValley.
Friday, 12 September & Saturday, 13 September | Knysna
Knysna’s reputation as a live music hotspot is on full display this weekend. On Friday, catch the raw energy of Aya Nixon Live at Knysna Gin. Born from the generation when Afrikaans rock ‘n’ roll found its voice, Aya Nixon delivers a performance filled with angsty lyrics and powerful guitar riffs. Doors open at 6:00 PM, with the show starting at 7:00 PM.10 On Saturday, it’s time to get funky!
The Groove Missionaries Party comes to Blend Country Restaurant for the very first time. This Cape Town-based collective is guaranteed to get you dancing with their repertoire of classic hits. The theme is “Funk it up!” with prizes for the best-dressed. The party starts at 7:00 PM (doors open at 5:30 PM). Tickets are R160 for adults and R100 for teens.
Friday, 12 September – Sunday, 14 September | Sedgefield
For the ultra-adventurous, the Sedgefield 500 kicks off this weekend. This is not for the faint of heart—it’s an unsupported, ultra-endurance gravel bikepacking race covering 500 kilometres of the Garden Route’s most challenging and beautiful terrain. Whether you’re a participant or a spectator, it’s a testament to human endurance set against a stunning backdrop.
Sunday, 14 September | Knysna
Wind down the weekend with some smooth tunes at the Easy Sunday Soul Sessions Picnic at the Loerie Park Sports Grounds. This touring outdoor lifestyle event is a haven for lovers of Soul, R&B, and Afro Pop. Pack a blanket, gather your friends, and relax to the soulful sounds in a beautiful Knysna setting.
Coming Soon: A Peek at the Rest of September
The excitement doesn’t stop this week. Here are a few dates to mark in your calendar for the rest of the month:
- Community & Environment: Get involved with the International Coastal Clean-up. Key dates include River Clean-up Day (17 Sep) and the main ICC Day (20 Sep). And don’t missCapeNature’s free Access Week from 20-26 September, offering free entry to reserves like Robberg, Keurbooms River, and Outeniqua.
- Festivals & Major Events: The Earthdance Festival brings its global peace prayer and music to the Klein Karoo (19-21 Sep). George will host the livelyOktoberfest at Fancourt (20 Sep) and the 4th Annual Garden Route Pride & March at Rosemoore Sport Stadium (20 Sep). For plant lovers, theBoland Succulent Festival takes place in Calitzdorp (19-21 Sep).
- Arts & Culture: Mossel Bay Arts Month continues with a packed programme through to 27 September. A truly out-of-this-world event happens on 17 September when former NASA Astronaut Commander Susan Kilrain, one of only three women to pilot the Space Shuttle, gives a talk in Mossel Bay.
Establishment Spotlight: Nature’s Way Farm Stall – More Than a Stop, It’s a Destination
Along the scenic stretch of road in The Crags, nestled between Plettenberg Bay and the wild beauty of Nature’s Valley, lies a place that perfectly encapsulates the heart and soul of the Garden Route. Nature’s Way Farm Stall is far more than a convenient stop for provisions; it has evolved into a multi-faceted destination experience, a testament to the innovative spirit of local family-run enterprise. It stands as a microcosm of what makes our region so appealing, seamlessly blending agriculture, hospitality, retail, and nature into one welcoming embrace.
At its core, Nature’s Way is a traditional, working dairy farm, a family legacy that began in 2001. This authenticity is the foundation of everything it offers. The farm stall itself is a treasure trove of wholesome goodness. The refrigerated section is brimming with their own dairy products—fresh pasteurized milk, creamy yogurts, and delectable ice cream, all produced on-site from their herd of Jersey cows. They are particularly renowned for their cheese, specializing in their own Loredo Farm Cheese alongside a curated selection of other local and imported varieties. The bakery fills the air with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked breads, croissants, pies, and quiches, while the shelves are laden with homemade preserves, jams, free-range eggs, and local honey.
What elevates Nature’s Way beyond a simple shop is the experience it has cultivated. The inviting veranda is the perfect spot to enjoy a light meal or a coffee while soaking in the peaceful views of lush green pastures rolling towards the magnificent Tsitsikamma mountains. It’s a place designed to make you want to linger. For families, the well-equipped play area is a blessing, and children will be delighted by the chance to meet the resident farm animals. A sign inviting you to brush Becky and Bella, the friendly goats, is a small but charming touch that speaks volumes about the farm’s welcoming ethos.
The experience doesn’t end there. A wander through the adjacent plant nursery reveals a wide variety of indigenous and exotic plants, herbs, and seedlings, catering to local gardeners and visitors inspired by the region’s flora. Next door, a boutique shop offers a curated selection of souvenirs, clothing, and natural skincare products from the popular Rain brand. For those who fall completely under the farm’s spell, Nature’s Way even offers self-catering accommodation. Their cottages and farmhouse are situated on the edge of the indigenous forest, providing a tranquil base for a family holiday or a romantic escape, making it a true home away from home in the heart of the Garden Route.
Adventure Awaits: Discover the Secrets of the Goukamma Trails
While the Garden Route is famous for its world-class hiking trails, some of its most spectacular secrets are hidden in plain sight. For those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in breathtaking natural diversity, the Goukamma Nature Reserve, tucked between Sedgefield and Knysna, offers a trail network that is second to none. The reserve provides a perfect “choose your own adventure” model, with two distinct yet interconnected trails starting from the Groenvlei entrance, making it an ideal destination for hikers of all fitness levels and interests. This inherent flexibility is its genius, catering perfectly to a family seeking a gentle stroll or seasoned trekkers looking for a challenge, all from the same starting point.
For a serene and accessible walk, the Cape Clawless Otter Trail is an absolute gem. This gentle 6.5 km out-and-back route meanders along the southern shoreline of the remarkable Groenvlei Lake. What makes this lake unique is that it’s a freshwater body with no in-flowing rivers, fed by underground springs. The flat, easy path takes you through a beautiful fringe of indigenous forest, with the sharp reeds of the lake on one side. Keep a keen eye out for the trail’s namesake; while the otters themselves are shy, you can often spot their tracks or the small tunnels they create through the reeds to access the water. It’s a peaceful, rewarding walk that takes about two hours and is perfect for families and casual walkers.
For those craving more of a challenge and panoramic vistas, the Blombos Trail awaits. Branching off from the Otter Trail, this route immediately begins to climb, taking you up and over some of the highest vegetated dunes in South Africa. The reward for your effort is a breathtaking, ever-changing landscape. The trail offers three circular options—a 6.5 km, 13 km, or 15 km loop—each showcasing the reserve’s incredible biodiversity. You’ll traverse through fragrant coastal fynbos, cool milkwood forests, and across vast dune fields, with the constant soundtrack of the Indian Ocean in the distance. The longer routes descend to the pristine and often deserted Platbank Beach, offering a magnificent coastal walk before looping back.
A few crucial tips for any Goukamma adventurer: a permit must be obtained from the CapeNature office upon arrival. There is no fresh water available on the trails, so be sure to carry plenty, especially on a hot day. The weather can change rapidly, so packing warm clothing is essential. Finally, if your route includes a beach section, check the tide tables before you set off, as some areas can be inaccessible during high tide.
Local Secret: The Ghost Elephants of the Knysna Forest
Every corner of the Garden Route has its stories, but none are as poignant or as mysterious as that of the Knysna elephants. They are our region’s most famous secret—ghosts of the forest, their very existence a subject of debate, science, and enduring legend. To walk the forest trails around Diepwalle or Jubilee Creek is to walk in their shadow, to feel the weight of a history that is both tragic and profoundly resilient.
Their story is an allegory for conservation itself. It begins in a time when vast herds of African bush elephants roamed the entire southern Cape, their presence chronicled in the ancient rock art of the San people, the original inhabitants of this land. With the arrival of European settlers, however, came the guns and the demand for ivory. By the early 20th century, the once-mighty herds had been decimated, with a small, terrified remnant retreating into the dense, near-impenetrable Knysna forests. The final, cruel blow came in 1920. A famed hunter, Major P.J. Pretorius, was commissioned for a “scientific” hunt, which resulted in the killing of five elephants from a herd of just seven, leaving the population on the brink of utter collapse.
What followed was a century of uncertainty. The elephants became phantoms. In the 1970s, a study found evidence of eleven individuals. By 1980, the number was thought to be just two. By the 1990s, the official consensus was that the Knysna elephants were functionally extirpated, with only a single, aging female left to wander the forest alone. It seemed the story had reached its heartbreaking end.
But the forest held its secrets close. Locals and foresters continued to report sightings—a fleeting glimpse, a freshly broken branch, a giant footprint in the mud. Then, in 2007, science offered a dramatic twist. A comprehensive study analyzing the DNA from dung samples collected throughout the forest concluded that at least five elusive female elephants, and possibly more, still survived. They had, it seemed, adapted their behaviour to become masters of camouflage, living silently within the deepest parts of the woods, a matriarchal herd that had outsmarted extinction. This discovery brought a wave of hope and excitement. Yet, the mystery endures. A 2019 survey using different methodologies once again concluded that only one lone female remained.
So, who are the ghost elephants of Knysna? Are they a tiny, resilient family, or a solitary survivor carrying the memory of her kind? The truth remains as veiled as the forest canopy. But their story is a powerful reminder of the delicate balance between human progress and the wild, and of the enduring power of nature to hold onto its secrets.
This Week in Garden Route History
History is not just about grand battles or famous figures; it is often set in motion by quiet, bureaucratic acts that ripple through centuries. This week marks one such foundational moment for one of the Garden Route’s most iconic towns.
On 14 September 1770, a loan permit for one year was issued to a colonist farmer named Stephanus Jesaias Terblanche. The permit was for a farm he called Melkhoutkraal, situated on the eastern bank of a beautiful, wide estuary. That seemingly mundane piece of paper represents the first official colonial claim on the land that would, over the next century and a half, grow into the town of Knysna.
This single event was the seed from which the town’s entire modern history grew. The farm established a permanent European presence in the area. Decades later, in 1804, Melkhoutkraal was purchased by the legendary George Rex, a man of great ambition who is widely considered the founder of Knysna. It was Rex who recognized the immense value of the surrounding indigenous forests and agitated for the establishment of a port to ship the valuable timber. From that first farm permit in 1770 came the settlers, the timber trade, the harbour, and eventually, the vibrant, bustling town that we know and love today. It’s a powerful reminder that every great story has a beginning, and Knysna’s began this very week, 255 years ago.
Did You Know? Fast Facts From Our Corner of the World
It’s easy to take for granted the paradise we call home, but the Garden Route is a region of true global significance. Here are a few reminders of just how special this place is:
- In 2017, the Garden Route was officially recognized for its unique ecological and cultural value when it was added to UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
- Our region is a vital part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, the smallest of the world’s six floral kingdoms but by far the most diverse. It is home to an astonishing 20% of all plant species in Africa.
- The magnificent Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn form the largest limestone cave system in Africa, a subterranean world of natural sculptures that began forming millions of years ago.
- In Mossel Bay stands the Post Office Tree, a giant milkwood that has served as a maritime mail drop for sailors since the year 1500, making it one of the oldest “post offices” in the world.
- The Bloukrans Bridge, which dramatically spans the gorge on the edge of the Tsitsikamma, is home to the world’s highest commercial bridge bungee jump, a thrilling leap of 216 metres.
Community Corner: A Call to the Coast
As we celebrate the natural heritage that defines us, there is no better way to show our appreciation than by taking direct action to protect it. September is International Coastal Clean-up (ICC) Month, a global movement that has a special resonance here along our 300 kilometres of precious coastline.
Our beaches, estuaries, and rivers are the lifeblood of our communities and ecosystems. They are sensitive environments that face increasing pressure from marine litter, which poses a major threat to our marine life and the beauty of our shores. This month, municipalities and community organizations across the district are hosting a variety of awareness campaigns and clean-up activities, and everyone is invited to play a part.
Whether you’ve lived here for 30 years or are just visiting for three days, you can make a real difference. Look out for a local event and lend a hand. Key dates for your diary include:
- Clean-up & Recycle SA Week: 14–20 September
- River Clean-up Day: 17 September
- National Recycling Day: 19 September
- International Coastal Clean-up Day: 20 September
Joining a clean-up is more than just picking up litter; it’s a powerful statement of community, a way to connect with neighbours and fellow travellers, and a tangible contribution to the preservation of the paradise we all share. After all, protecting our natural heritage is one of the most meaningful ways we can celebrate it.