“The Garden of the Garden Route” welcomes you to the area the ancient San people called the “place of many waters.” This land lies between the sea and the Tsitsikamma Mountains and stretches from the Bloukrans River in the West to Clarkson in the East. Beautiful indigenous forest, protected by the State, is home to century old trees such as Yellowwood, Stinkwood, Hard Pear, Ironwood, Kamassi and many others.
Tsitsikamma is a khoi word meaning “place of abundant or sparkling water”. The region stretches from the Bloukrans River in the west to Eerste Rivier in the east, is bordered on the north by the imposing Tsitsikamma Mountains and in the south by the Indian Ocean.
The area is covered in large tracts of indigenous forest, commercial plantation and Fynbos. Deep river gorges cleft the plateau as they make their way down to the sea, creating spectacular waterfalls and deep kloofs.
A mild all year round climate allows one to make the most of all the outdoor activities that are on offer, whilst a high rainfall ensures the lushness of vegetation that the area is renowned for.
Storms River Village stemmed from a shooting box built by TH Duthie in 1841, then developed into a construction camp for the builders and was declared a crown village in 1885. It offers a couple of small shops; postal agency, liquor store, police station, curio shop, various restaurants and a choice of accommodation options.
Tsitsikamma National Park, declared in 1964, encompasses a marine reserve made up of 80km of coastline and offers the visitor magnificent scenery, walks, a small beach, restaurant and shop. The famous Storms River suspension Bridge spans the river mouth.
If you enjoy outdoor adventure and have a taste for nature and a little bit of “quirk”, Tsitsikamma is beckoning for you to pay a visit.
Where to Stay
For the more traditional, there are several Guest Houses and B&B’s to choose from. If you feel like kicking-back to make yourself at home, the self-catering establishments on offer may be of interest. For the more adventurous, lay your bed and rest your head in the middle of the forest and go camping! Last but not least, if you are just passing through and only require a pillow for your head, check out one of the friendly backpacking establishments.
Where to Play
There are many exciting activities nestled in the forest and along the coastline just waiting for an adventurous spirit. Fill your mojo with Blackwater Tubing, Bungy Jumping, Forest Walks, Golf, Mountain Biking, Hiking, Underwater and Gorge Diving or Tree Top Canopy Tours.
If your destined to shop, the Tsitsikamma Eersterivier Embroidery has emerged from a women’s club where ladies of the disadvantaged community were taught to embroider. With their names embroidered on various household treasures like pot-holders, bags, aprons, placemats, blankets, etc. it has also become the pride and joy of these ladies.
Where to Eat
What the Tsitsikamma Village lacks for in food variety it certainly makes up for it with classic and eclectic eateries . Marilyn’s 60’s Diner is the new landmark for fun and a memory not to be forgotten. With excellent food (including REAL 60’s American-style diner cuisine), its retro 50’s and 60’s décor (including REAL Cadillac’s and Chevy’s on display) and Elvis and Marilyn memorabilia, this is a true gem not to be missed! It is also home to the annual distinctive music journey ‘The Elvis Festival Africa’.