Calm city in Western Cape, known for its Outeniqua Mountains backdrop and Garden Route location. Home to the Outeniqua Transport Museum and scenic Montagu Pass.
George, the second largest city in South Africa's Western Cape, is located between the Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean. This Garden Route city has several golf courses, including Fancourt. You can visit the Garden Route Botanical Garden, explore the Slave Tree, hike in nearby forests, or use George as a base to discover the wider Garden Route region.
Location and Landscape
George is situated on a 10-kilometer plateau, approximately halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. Mountains to the north and the ocean to the south create a mild climate year-round. This geography contributes to the lush vegetation and varied ecosystems found in and around George, making it a significant part of the Cape Floral Kingdom.
Golfing
George is a popular golfing destination in South Africa. The city and its surroundings have about 10 golf courses. Fancourt Hotel and Country Club Estate is particularly well-known. Gary Player designed Fancourt's courses, which hosted international tournaments like the 2003 Presidents Cup. You can find challenging and scenic courses throughout the area, suitable for various skill levels.
Natural Attractions and Outdoor Activities
The Outeniqua Mountains have numerous hiking and mountain biking trails. At the top of Caledon Street, you'll find the Garden Route Botanical Garden, which displays the region's unique flora. You can explore the nearby Garden Route National Park, which includes large areas of indigenous forests, lakes, and rivers. For beach activities, Victoria Bay and Herold's Bay are good spots for swimming, surfing, and other water sports.
Transportation and Accessibility
George Airport connects the city to major South African destinations like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. Within the city, you can use the Go George public bus service, launched in 2014. George's central location on the Garden Route makes it convenient for exploring nearby areas, with good road connections to other destinations in the region.
Local Events and Culture
George hosts various events throughout the year. The George Cheese Festival is a family-friendly event featuring local and international cheeses, wines, and chocolates. At the George Old Car Show, you can see vintage automobiles. The Outeniqua Farmers Market sells local produce and crafts. These events give you a sense of the local culture and community in George.
Historical Landmarks
George has several sites of historical interest. The Slave Tree, an ancient English oak planted in 1811, is now a national monument. Its trunk has a large chain and lock embedded in it. Other historical sites include the King Edward VII Library building and the oldest Roman Catholic Church in South Africa. These places allow you to learn about the city's colonial past.
