Whale Coast Route
Leaving Cape Town via N2 to Gordon’s Bay, the scenic R44 (Clarence Drive) takes you through the internationally acclaimed pristine area of the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, to the village of Rooiels. One of the finest coastal drives in the world, this road hugs the awesome Kogelberg Mountains and offers many rest points to enjoy whale watching and photo opportunities. Enjoy glorious sunsets at Rooiels and Pringle Bay, when looking over False Bay, you can see all the way to Cape Point on a fine day. Continue to Betty’s Bay, home to one of only two mainland African Penguin Colonies at Stony Pont nesting, alongside the ruins of the old whaling station. The Harold Porter Botanical Garden showcases a variety of indigenous coastal flora. Local tour guides are available to share the secrets of this village which nestles in the heart of the Biosphere.
The journey continues to Kleinmond with its world renowned golf courses, interesting harbour area and a multitude of scenic hiking opportunities. Taking the R43 will bring the traveller to the famous Hermanus, boasting the best land-based whale watching in the world. Home to the world’s only whale crier, this metropolitan town offers an abundance of shopping and dining opportunities. Explore the Hemel & Aarde Valley’s many top wine farms.
Follow the R43 to the picturesque village of Stanford – an ideal base from which to explore the Whale Coast. Enjoy the abundance of bird watching possibilities as well as the many activities linked to the Klein River. This historic village will sooth even the jaded soul. On to the excitement of Great White Shark country – Gansbaai – the Coast of Contrasts, experience the adrenaline rush of shark cage diving or further your whale watching itinerary by boat. Explore the Strandveld Museum in Franskraal or visit Danger Point Lighthouse, immortalising the tragic Birkenhead shipwreck – “Woman en Child First”.
The route ends at Die Dam, but the journey is just beginning. A gravel road leads to Elim and the Cape Agulhas area for a whole new adventure
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