The Garden Route in the Western Cape features some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the world, through forest, fynbos and along our pristine coastline. During the next few months we will take a look at some spectacular walks and hikes in and around Plettenberg Bay where you can take a moment and admire the beauty that surrounds this area.
In the first article in this series, we take a look at an easy, wheelchair friendly walk made available by Sanparks at the Garden of Eden Forest walk near Harkerville.
The trail is easy to find as it is well marked on the N2 between Knysna and Plett and has been open since 1926. It is relatively short and passes through the forest in a circular shape. The walk may be short (little more than a path to stretch your legs), but it is through one of the most beautiful examples of Wet Highforest in South Africa. Wet Highforest is an unusual kind of forest, thick with tall Stinkwood, beautiful Yellow wood, Kalander, Wit-els and many other indigenous trees and vegetation.
The garden itself comprises smaller trails, so it's up to you if you wish to do the short walking trail, or meander off to explore further. There are wooden benches and tables ideal for picnicking. It is advisable to bring a warm top as the forest can sometimes be rather cold on an early winter morning.
Another amazing place to stop near this Harkerville Forest is the Kranshoek Viewpoint where you will find a picnic site and a stream in which children your can play.
Next month we will take a look at the another hike that will be well worth a spot on our newsletter list.
