Now hold on before you all start writing in, we know these are not strictly on the Garden Route, but once you've picked up your hire car and hit the road from Cape Town, they are such popular stopping off points on the way to the Garden Route that we'd be remiss not to mention them!

The pretty coastal town of Hermanus and shark cage diving capital of Gansbaai are particularly popular from July to November when southern right whales settle in Walker Bay to breed. Known for the best land-based whale watching in the world, from the rocky shore of Hermanus visitors can watch these majestic animals as they break the water, often only metres away. Be on the lookout for other notable marine residents too: dolphins, seals, penguins and great white sharks.

TF's top hotel pick: The Marine

Boasting a picturesque view over Walker Bay, The Marine provides a luxurious spot for whale watching. Enjoy a host of amenities, including the hotel's range of culinary journeys and a heated pool, which is sure to offer an unforgettable experience.

Desert-like Oudtshoorn offers sightseeing opportunities both above and below ground. Head into the surrounding Swartberg Mountains, then make the short journey to the head of the Cango Valley. Descend into the Cango Caves, an awe-inspiring journey through vast limestone halls with towering rock formations. Back on the surface, enjoy a tour to meet some of the town’s notable residents: ostriches and meerkats! Definitely one of the best stops on the Garden Route for nature lovers!

TF's top hotel pick: Surval Boutique Olive Estate

Located on Route 62 in the spectacular valleys of the Klein Karoo, this small farm offers the perfect retreat. Wake up to an orchestra of exotic birds and explore the beautiful surrounding areas, taking in the views on a variety of walking trails around the property.

The neighbouring towns of George and Wilderness provide a relaxing break on your Garden Route adventure. George is home to several championship golf courses, dotted through stunning countryside scenery. Head to one of the nearby beaches, or why not spend some time in the lovely village of Wilderness. Here you have easy access to the rivers, estuaries and beaches of Wilderness National Park which you can explore on foot, by bike or even by canoe.

The temperate climate makes Knysna a popular, year-round destination and a great stop on the Garden Route. This lively coastal fishing town is renowned for its oysters and there are lots of activities on offer to keep everyone happy. Take a boat trip into the sheltered Knysna Lagoon, protected by the Knysna Heads, or visit Featherbed Nature Reserve and enjoy the walking trails or a trip on a paddle cruiser. In addition, Knysna boasts varied shopping, delicious cuisine and a rich cultural heritage which all add to its charm.

TF's top hotel pick: The Lofts Boutique Hotel

Built in 1922, this family owned Boutique is anchored in the rich history of the Thesen Island. For delicious seasonal cuisine, head to the Nest Food Bar before treating yourself to a signature cocktail as the sun dips across Knysna Lagoon.

The summer home of the rich and famous, bustling ‘Plett’ offers miles of sweeping golden beaches and is surrounded by indigenous forest. The town itself boasts upmarket boutiques and cafés and is the perfect base from which to explore the host of wildlife sanctuaries, nature reserves and water based activities found nearby. With so much to see and do, make sure you allow plenty of time in this memorable corner of the Garden Route.

TF's top hotel pick: Fynbos Ridge Cottages

This quaint, Dutch country style accommodation is a paradise for those with a love of nature and sense of adventure. Just a 15 minute drive to Plettenburg Bay, Fynbos Ridge Cottages are nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the town centre for a peaceful stay.

Bordered by the imposing Tsitsikamma Mountains to the north and sweeping down towards the dramatic Indian Ocean shoreline, the lush Tsitsikamma National Park covers 50 miles of stunning coastline and indigenous forest and is teeming with bird and marine life. Spend an afternoon exploring one of the varied walking trails and scenic viewpoints, or try your hand at ziplining through the canopy from Storms River Village. This is a great Garden Route stop for those who love nature and adventure.

For something a little more laid back, upmarket St Francis Bay offers an idyllic stop for a night or two at the start or end of your Garden Route holiday. Sit back and enjoy a boat cruise through the canals and rivers that transect the town and admire the archetypal whitewashed luxury homes which dot the shoreline. Don’t miss the popular beaches at Seal Point, where you can spot locals trying their hand at surfing and kiteboarding.

TF's top hotel pick: The Sands @ St Francis

This beachfront paradise offers complementary kayaks and bikes for guests to discover the unspoilt surrounding areas. Take a refreshing dip in the infinity pool, or explore the range of locally sourced wines from the hotel's impressive wine cellar.

Known as the ‘friendly city’, Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) has a laidback atmosphere, treelined streets, and a selection of lovely sandy beaches. The surrounding bay is also home to one of the largest populations of African penguins, pods of bottlenose dolphins, and from August to September, several species of whales frequent the waters. Often the final stop on a Garden Route fly drive holiday, the area has a domestic airport making it easy to connect to Cape Town and Johannesburg.

TF's top pick hotel: Hacklewood Hill Country House

This traditional Victorian manor house is set in peaceful surroundings and boasts just eight charming individually decorated rooms. Lounge by the pool, partake in a game of tennis at the on site court, play croquet on the lawn, or treat yourself to afternoon tea on the guesthouse’s picturesque veranda.

If you're inspired to take your own Garden Route adventure, we've some fabulous ways to help you go about it. Our fly drives include great value car rental, hand picked hotels and easy driving days. If you're tempted but don't fancy driving - how about following exactly the same route but with your own private vehicle and driver-guide - it's surprisingly affordable!

Lastly, you could forgo the car completely and join a sociable escorted group tour. Give us a call and speak to one of our expert consultants to discuss your options.