The small seaside town of Wilderness is inappropriately named as it is in a most green and lovely part of South Africa's southern coast. According to legend, a man name George Bennett was allowed to marry his sweetheart provided he went to live in the wilderness (presumably as a test of his character). Instead he bought a farm and named it Wilderness, and he was successful in winning his bride.

Wilderness is situated behind sand dunes and beside a large, safe and quiet beach, suitable for swimming and surfing. We saw dolphins in the sea just as we arrived. The main N2 highway runs through the town, as does the scenic Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe steam railway.

The area is a national park, comprising mainly wetlands with many rivers, lakes and lagoons, making it ideal for walkers, fishermen and nature lovers.

Approaching Wilderness from the west on the N2

Places to visit on the Garden Route

More about the Garden Route area of South Africa

Hotels in South Africa

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