Wilderness is situated on the Garden Route and set against the backdrop of the majestic Outeniqua and Swartberg mountains.
This beautiful resort town lies 15km east of George, between the Kaaimans River in the west and the Goukamma Nature Reserve in the east. Its prime position offers views of the Indian Ocean and overlooks miles of beautiful beaches making it the perfect holiday destination for young and old.
There is a relaxed atmosphere about Wilderness, which is highlighted by coffee shops spilling over onto pavements and restaurants with open decks or patios. There are also quaint little shops scattered in the town that provide you with all the necessities, and once a week you can look forward to an open market in the square featuring a live one-man band. To maintain a relaxed atmosphere, fines are issued to people who violate noise and air pollution restrictions.
Residents are particularly proud of the fauna and flora, sightings of which take your breath away no matter how many times a day you pass the same road.
Wilderness not only overlooks the sea, but there is also the lagoon and the Serpentine River, which meanders between the Touw River, Island Lake and Rondevlei. These spots are ideal for water sports, mountain biking, horse riding and hiking.
A popular activity is hiking to the Woodville Big tree. Estimated at over 850 years old, the tree adds to the appeal of the trail and its massive branches are a photographer’s dream. There is also the scenic Kaaimans River Railway Bridge which has become world renowned as a much-favoured spot for photography.
The family and holiday homes are often sprawling waterside mansions with exquisite views and are extremely sought-after.
Living in Wilderness is like being on holiday all year round
Resident, Sameeha Anthony
Things to do:
- Abseiling in the Kaaimans Gorge
- Acrobranch Tree Top Adventures at the Timberlake Organic Village
- Mountain biking in the Bergplaas State Forest
- Horse riding at the at the base of the Outeniqua mountain range
Where to shop:
- Milkwood Village Shopping Centre
- Palms Garden Square
- Timberlake farm village
Best in food:
- The Blue Olive: a tapas venue set among beautiful, old Milkwood trees with an expansive wooden deck
- The Bongo’s Pizza Lounge: a family-style restaurant serving authentic Italian food
- Flava Cafe: an award-winning eatery with a diverse menu
Take a beautiful trip through the Garden Route here:
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
