Baviaanskloof, Eastern Cape

Baviaanskloof the more scenic alternative to the Garden Rout

The Garden Route along the N2 in the eastern Cape is well known. Every section of the route offers something different, with magnificent scenery around every bend. Eastwards from Mossel Bay the road hugs the coast all the way to Storms River, and it is not for nothing that this is known as the Garden Route.

The many mountain ranges form a significant barrier between the narrow coastal strip and the dry interior. All the routes from the interior to the coast have to pass through these mountains in one way or another: The N9 passes over the Outeniquas north of George through a very impressive pass, although the upper sections are often shrouded in mist, hiding the views. North of Oudtshoorn lies the punishing Swartberg Pass, worth the detour if you have never been there before. The N12 from George to Beaufort West travels through the erie Meiringspoort - The road through here follows the river bed, and has been washed away many times... It has now been rebuilt as a first class road and is also well worth a visit.

North of Natures Valley lie three ranges of mountains, all running roughly east-west: The Tsitsikamma mountains, the Kouga mountains, and the Baviaanskloof mountains. Between the Tsitsikamma and the Kouga lies a fertile valley. There is a fairly good road as well as a railway line along this valley. However, the section between the Kouga mountains and the Baviaanskloof is wild with very difficult access. The road through the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area is a narrow track, following the dry river beds where it can, and taking in some breathtaking passes through the mountains along the way. The distance from Andrieskraal to the N9 main road is only about 180 kms, but you can count on about 6 hours for the trip!

From Port Elizabeth the route passes through Humansdorp, Hankey and Patensie before entering the Baviaanskloof wilderness area proper. You will count over 100 low water crossings through the main part of the route.

As if this Baviaankloof Rroute is not punishing enough, take the "short" route down to Knysna, through Prince Alfreds pass. A lovely trip but tiring.

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