The Garden Route’s official borders are Storms River in the Eastern Cape and Mossel Bay in the Western Cape. However, it is often considered to simply be the route between Port Elizabeth (part of Nelson Mandela Bay in the Eastern Cape) and Cape Town (the capital city of the Western Cape). It is a coastal route that takes travellers along one of the most scenic paths in the country, if not the world. Dense forests are juxtaposed by rolling sand dunes and towering mountains, while the blue of the Indian Ocean often provide spectacles of dolphins frolicking and whales surging powerfully through the waters.
Due to the fertility and natural abundance of the Garden Route, food festivals are always ideally hosted here. In addition, because this is a popular tourist route, these festivals are usually very expansive and well supported.
The Outeniqua Country Hop Strawberry Festival
George hosts this annual 2-day festival, which is great for young and old alike. All proceeds go to the tourism industry so that this area is even better equipped to welcome its international visitors. A portion of the profit is also donated to specific charities. Local wines, cheeses and foods are on offer at stalls, along with fresh vegetables and herbs, making this a culinary delight. Other events; such as a dog walk, pony rides and strawberry eating competitions; are also part of the festival, making it fun for the entire family (and their pets). One of the main features of the Outeniqua Country Hop Strawberry Festival is the scarecrow building challenge, which promises a R5 000 prize to the winning primary school. For more information, contact Nadine Bolttler on +27 (0)82 926 5928 or see www.outeniquacountryhop.co.za.
Gastronomica™
This fabulous event takes place in Knysna, and offers a sensory experience that is irresistible. It is characterised by plenty of workshops, demonstrations, presentations, food, music and fun. The guest speakers include well-known experts and celebrities in the food industry, making this an extra special treat for those who are passionate about all things food-related. For more information, contact Carla or Pat on 044 302 5749 or see www.gastronomicakny.co.za.
The Knysna Oyster Festival
In winter, for 10 days, oyster lovers from all corners of the earth descend upon Knysna for this fabulously chic affair. This event is paired with the Pick n Pay Cape Times Forest Marathon™ (half marathon), and the Pick n Pay Weekend Argus Rotary Cycle Tour™ and is aimed at allowing the entire family to enjoy good food, entertainment and fun. Subsidiary events include the Pick n Pay Fun Event for the Disabled™, the Navigation Drift Dive Challenge, the Night of 1 000 Pictures (an art and photography exhibition), the Wade Bales Wine Festival, the Pick n Pay Oyster and Wine Mardi Gras™, the Knysna Lyster Company Shucking Competition and other sports events.
Other great culinary events along the Garden Route include:
- The Hartenbos Wine Festival (Hartenbos)
- The Vodashop George Cheese Festival™ (George)
- The NRL Wines Trade Show (George)
- The Gourmets & Gourmands Culinary Festival (George)
