Wilderness Hotels

Despite what its name suggests, Wilderness is anything but wild! Flanked by the Indian Ocean, Outeniqua Mountains, and verdant forest, this unobtrusive seaside town between George and Knysna is home to a number of natural lakes and lagoons — a nature-lover’s utopia. In search of the perfect place to unwind? This tranquil coastal village is for you.

The crashing waves of the beach and rippling surfaces of nearby lakes and lagoons are perfect spots to engage in an array of water-sports from skiing and Surfing to fishing and canoeing. Wilderness is also a popular place to go hang-gliding and paragliding. Lift off the escarpment; get a bird’s-eye view of town, and gliding to the beach below. The Map of Africa viewpoint overlooks a river snaking its way through dense woodland, carving out a patch of land reminiscent of the African continent.

A number of excellent mountain-bike and Hiking trails as well as abseiling routes are also in the area. The neighbouring village of Sedgefield hosts a weekly Wild Oats Market selling good food, interesting crafts, and local produce. Wilderness’ convenient location and range of accommodation options allow for easy exploration of the surrounding Garden Route. Plus: it’s an ideal stopover when travelling between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.

Highlights

• Wilderness oozes small-town charm and is close to George, Sedgefield, and Knysna—prime Garden Route hotspots
• The domestic George Airport is a quick half-hour’s drive away and connects to all major centres throughout the country
• Sport- and nature-lovers will adore Wilderness and the array of exciting adventures on offer
• Wilderness is an ideal stopover for tourists wanting to break the long journey between the cities of Cape Town and Port Elizabeth