Wilderness, George Accommodation

Wilderness is a beautiful town nestled between thickly forested hills and cliffs on the one side and a system of spectacular waterways, lakes, and lagoons along the coast. In the centre of the Wilderness National Park there is a rest camp that hires out paddleboats, row-boats, and canoes. At the camp a shop is available.

The town itself is situated at the mouth of the Touws River, where hippo's once used to play in the mud-holes. Wilderness is a very popular holiday resort and caters for every kind of tourist.

Hikers wont be disappointed by the 10-kilometer(6 mile) Pied Kingfisher trail which covers the river, marshes and lagoon. While hiking you will be able to see five of the ten kingfisher species of South Africa. For the bird-watchers there are two hides available in Upper-Langvlei and Rondevlei, which are located in the wilderness wetland marshes and draws birds from all over the country.

The wilderness lakes provide excellent opportunities for watersports like swimming, sailing, and waterskiing. Canoeists can explore the lagoon and channels. Surfers will enjoy the excellent waves and fishermen wont be disappointed by the ample fishing opportunities.

Over the years Wilderness has become a popular honeymoon destination. According to legend when George Bennet of Cape Town wanted to get married, his bride said yes on the condition that they live in Wilderness. He bought the whole area in 1877 for 500 english pounds and had to struggle to clear away some the forest just so that he could build a house. A real wilderness.

Wilderness is a picturesque coastal town situated between George and Knysna along South Africa's Garden Route. Known for its natural beauty, pristine beaches, and outdoor activities, Wilderness offers visitors a tranquil escape amidst stunning landscapes.

Here are five things to see or do in Wilderness and its surrounding areas:

1. Beach Exploration:
   Spend a day exploring the beautiful beaches of Wilderness, which stretch for several kilometers along the coastline. Wilderness Beach is known for its soft golden sand, rolling waves, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Dolphins are often spotted playing in the surf, and during the winter months, Southern Right Whales can be seen offshore.

2. Map of Africa Viewpoint:
   Visit the Map of Africa viewpoint for panoramic views of the Kaaimans River flowing into the Indian Ocean. From this elevated vantage point, the meandering river resembles the shape of the African continent, hence the name. The viewpoint offers a picturesque setting for picnics, photography, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

3. Wilderness National Park:
   Explore the Wilderness National Park, which encompasses diverse ecosystems including lakes, rivers, forests, and fynbos-covered hillsides. Enjoy birdwatching, canoeing, and hiking along the park's numerous trails, including the popular Half Collared Kingfisher Trail and the Giant Kingfisher Trail. The park is also home to the scenic Wilderness Lagoon, a haven for waterbirds and aquatic species.

4. Touw River Lagoon:
   Spend a day relaxing by the tranquil waters of the Touw River Lagoon. Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the water, go for a swim, or rent a canoe or kayak to explore the lagoon and its surrounding wetlands. The lagoon is a peaceful retreat where visitors can unwind and immerse themselves in nature.

5. Outdoor Adventures:
   Wilderness offers a range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Go hiking or mountain biking along the many trails in the area, including the popular Outeniqua Hiking Trail and the Seven Passes Road. For adrenaline-pumping thrills, try paragliding over the scenic coastline, or go abseiling or canyoning in the nearby mountains.

With its stunning natural scenery and abundance of outdoor activities, Wilderness is a perfect destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful coastal retreat along the Garden Route.