Route 12

Route 12 is the gateway to the Garden Route. It passes through 12 smaller towns/suburbs that make up the greater Mossel Bay area.  The route includes Vleesbaai to the west, and Fransmanshoek, Boggomsbaai, Danabaai, Mossel Bay, Hartenbos, Kleinbrak River and Grootbrak River moving up towards the east coast. The N2 is the main national road that connects the towns on this route. You can choose to take the road less travelled and follow the coast. This way you may choose to begin your drive from Boggomas baai..

Glentana, Friemersheim, Ruiterbos and Herbertsdale make up the inland parts of the route..The experience is a project and campaign that is a community-driven tourism philosophy impacting and benefiting the people and businesses along the route. A boost to tourism will strengthen the community, preserve its history and support local products. Along the route, you will also discover untouched beaches, beautiful scenery, cultural landmarks and countless activities

Fransmanshoek is home to the oldest active conservancy in the Western Cape. It is also known for several of its famous fishing sites. The area (‘Fransman’ meaning Frenchman) got its name from the French man-of-war, La Fortune, which sank here in 1763. Visit the mysterious cloverleaf labyrinth.

Vleesbaai has endless beaches, safe swimming spots, and leisurely walking trails.
It is also one of the best places for dolphin and whale watching. The beach is popular with surfers for its gentle swells and five-foot waves.

Boggomsbaai is a seaside village with long sandy beaches, spectacular birdlife and excellent whalewatching opportunities. The beach forms part of the Oystercatcher Trail. It is also popular with fishermen.

Dana Bay/Baai is a picturesque seaside village and conservancy, it is home to many coastal and limestone varieties of fynbos. It is also famous for its birdlife, and it is home to a colony of black oystercatchers.

Hartenbos, this family-friendly area is known for its iconic beachside walkway, golden beaches and great camping sites. Other activities include the huge heated pool at AKTV or visiting interesting museums and markets.

Mossel Bay is the main municipality and centre of Route 12. It is a picturesque coastal town It has stunning beaches, rugged coastline, interesting maritime history and fascinating cultural landmarks It has plenty to offer, from museums to markets, Water Sports, boat trips and great dining.

Little/Klein Brak River is a seaside resort town at the mouth of the Little Brak River. A major landmark here is Botlierskop, an outcrop of mushroom-like rock formations covered in fynbos. Little Brak River is also known for its Blue Flag beach and beautiful lagoon.

Great Brak River is on the lagoon of the Great Brak River. Visitors can enjoy beautiful, unspoilt beaches and stunning views. The town is home to quaint shops and eateries, and there are many local art, cycling and hiking routes.

Glentana was established in the early 20th century and is thought to be named after a type of whiskey brewed in Northern Scotland. Look out for the shipwreck, a floating dock of a British steamer that ran aground in 1902.

Friemersheim was founded in the early 19th century as a mission station. It is well known
for its beautiful murals, painted by local artist Fourie Ackermann.

Herbertsdale, this historic village, was established before the Second Boer War on a farm called Hemelrood. The area is known for its witblits (South African version of moonshine).

Ruiterbos is a beautiful valley at the foot of the Robinson Pass between Mossel Bay and Oudtshoorn. It is known for its quaint shops and farm stalls, scenic drives, hiking trails and 4×4 routes.

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Route 12

Route 12 is home to multiple award-winning game and wine farms, with countless activities available for families, nature lovers, adrenaline junkies and cultural enthusiasts.

You can choose to drive to the larger town of George, where there are masses of things to do. Don’t miss the Garden Route Botanical Garden or Redberry maze, or continue on the Garden Route on to the border of the Eastern Cape at Storms River

The Roads are well-maintained and suitable for all vehicles. Keep an eye out for signage to smaller towns and farm stays. The best time to visit is during Summer (Nov–Mar) for beaches; spring (Sep–Nov) for wildflowers and mild weather. Look for fresh fruit, vegetables, homemade preserves, and baked goods at farm stalls along the route.