Recommendations
The book The West Coast: From Melkbos to the Orange River, authored by Leon Nell and published by Penguin Random House (South Africa), is an excellent read that we highly recommend. It takes you to a different and fascinating region of South Africa. It opens the door to a treasure trove of West Coast attractions. In the book, the coastline is broken up into the South, Central, North, and Diamond Coast sections, all of which can be explored independently. The main features of both coastal and interior communities are outlined.
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The book offers a glimpse into prehistoric human history, regional culture and customs, natural history and fauna, and contemporary industrial and commercial activities. Langebaan Lagoon and Postberg Flower Reserve are just two of the many flower reserves included in the West Coast National Park and the Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve. It also delves into the region's rich archaeological history and the renowned fishing sector of Velddrif, St. Helena Bay, and Elands Bay.
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Contact details for Leon Nell
Email: leonnell@cyberperk.co.za
Cellphone: 082 563 8833
View on 42
(Dana Bay)
View on 42 is a lovely self-catering accommodation service in Dana Bay, Mossel Bay. The rooms are spacious, well-equipped and have stunning views of the ocean. The owners are friendly and helpful, and the place is clean and comfortable.
The location is ideal for exploring the Garden Route and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. We would highly recommend View on 42 to anyone looking for a relaxing and affordable holiday in Dana Bay.
Mpofu Tented Camp
(Dinokeng Game Reserve)
Mpofu Bush Camp... A Jewel discovered in Dinokeng Game Reserve only 45 min from Pretoria. A Small, Exclusive and Unfenced Bush Camp. A way to explore Nature at its best.
Diaz Express Train
(Hartenbos)
The Diaz Express is a fun rail experience for the whole family that travels on the current Transnet rail network between George and the beach town of Mossel Bay in the Garden Route region of South Africa. George is located in the centre of the Garden Route. Popular with vacationers, Hartenbos serves as the primary point of departure for day trips to a number of area attractions, including the Great Brak River, Glentana, and Maalgate, among others.
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Each voyage offers breathtaking panoramas of the Indian Ocean, river estuaries, and the natural flora and fauna of the Cape Floral Kingdom. During the whale-watching season, you will have a front-row seat to witness these magnificent creatures. You may combine unrivalled dining experiences with breathtaking landscapes, rich historical sites, and trips to charming villages filled with art galleries and artisan boutiques if you book one of the many accessible excursions.
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For instance, you could go to the speciality coffee shop and art gallery known as Seeplaas, where you can take in the breathtaking view of the ocean while enjoying the company of close friends over a cup of 'Something Sweet' coffee, and then afterwards lose all sense of time among the remarkable works of art created by Ken Maloney. You might also travel to the Opispoor Pub & Grill, which is located on the site of the station and offers breathtaking views of the Great Brak River and lagoon.
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As the train line winds its way high above seaside resorts and through the indigenous plant life of the Cape Floral Kingdom, passengers may relax and take in the breathtaking vistas of the Indian Ocean, river estuaries, bridges, and tunnels as they travel along the route. When vacationing in Hartenbos, you cannot afford to miss the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ride the Diaz Express.
Check out the video below of our ride on the Diaz Express.