This post details a trip to the mountain town of George, South Africa. You will learn about history, where to see the best views and accommodation options.
Situated between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, George is a city of 150,000. Despite its population size, it’s a quiet place where you can come to relax.
From any back garden in George, you can see the great mountains of the Witfontein Nature Reserve. Around 14 kilometers away from the beaches, George is a classic South African city that harbors luscious farming land, a challenging landscape, and plenty of leisure activities.
It is one of those places that you want to keep secret from your friends. It won’t take long for you to understand why it’s often deemed a hidden gem.
Getting Your Hands Dirty in George
Of all the African nations, South Africa is famed for having the best farming soil. One of the core attractions of this city is Redberry Farm. Locals and tourists can come and enjoy the fruits of labor, by picking your strawberries.
The fattest, juiciest strawberries that are transported across the globe, are grown right from this farm. There’s also a hedge maze which the children will find entertaining.
The Redberry Express is a children’s train that travels all around the property, giving adults and children a glimpse of all the features available to them.
If you’re in the mood for water activities on a hot day, the bumper boats will certainly satisfy your urge. While the adults go off to taste some local wine, the children can go to the rabbit pen and pet their fluffy soft ears.
Going Up the Mountains at George
Outeniqua Pass has an elevation of 800 meters and provides some of the best views in the entire country. You get to see the vast foliage and richness of the soil, as you overlook other mountains and the Gwaingriver.
In the western zone of the Witfontein Nature Reserve, you will see many water animals and birds of prey that are expert fishermen. This pass began being constructed during World War Two; from 1943 to 1951.
If you’re entering from the north, this is the main pass you will be driving on to get to George. There are leisure structures along the pass, as there are a few walking paths for people to use if they want to go for a picnic or photo opportunity.
A Morning View of South Africa
While you’re in George, you will want to stay in the best place possible. Preferably, somewhere you can have equal distance access to the countryside and the city.
To this end, there are many great Places to Stay, particularly the Town Lodge George which is close to the natural attractions but near the business hub of the city as well. The rooms are in the classic beige that South African decor is known for.
The amenities at your disposal are free WiFi, secure parking, a swimming pool as well as the same-day laundry and dry cleaning service, to name a few.
You won’t be able to help yourself from telling others about this awesome quiet little gem, situated in a mountain pass. George is a city that begs you to relax and go hiking during the day and enjoy a late evening dip in the pool.
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