Garden Route [Part 2 - Herold's Bay]

The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder, forever! ~ Jacques Yves Cousteau ~

Today, I'd very much like to introduce you to Herold's Bay. The little village is situated around a picturesque, sheltered rocky cove, a mere 20 minutes  drive from the city of George.  George is the only city within the famed Garden Route. Other popular towns and villages worth visiting along this magnificent stretch of South Africa are Mossel Bay, Glentana, Victoria Bay, Knysna, Sedgefield and Plettenberg Bay.  In addition, there are several little hideaways and seaside resorts dotted along the coastline between these larger centres.  

Please click the read more button below to continue this post...

There are several Bed 'n Breakfast & Self-catering accommodation options to choose from in addition to the Herold's Bay Hotel.

Herold's Bay is one of these and, as it is situated a mere 5 minutes from the George Airport, it is a popular holiday destination for fly-in weekenders. This small village is far-removed from the bright city lights.  If peace and tranquility are what you're looking for, this is the perfect spot for a rejuvenating getaway!  We spent two memorable days here some years' back, but only had time for a half-day visit last time we stayed along the Garden Route [see my last post].

A few of the original holiday homes literally a stone's throw from the beach - prime property!

We took plenty of pictures and thoroughly enjoyed noticing the many changes since we'd last stopped here. 

There are few undeveloped 'beachfront' properties remaining.  Most were bought and developed many years ago...however, a number have since been upgraded and refurbished.

The esplanade and beachfront drive - one way in, same way out!  This constitutes the main thoroughfare in the village.

Looking back the other way.

Attractive new developments since we'd last visited.

View from the hotel.

Although still very much a 'laidback' village, there has been a lot of restoration and new building.  We stopped for tea at the Herold's Bay Hotel which was very pleasant.     

If you're looking for glitzy malls and designer labels, you'll not find those here...

What you will find is a view to momentarily take your breath away and stop you in your tracks...

The only sounds you will hear are the roar of the ocean and the shrill cry of the fish eagle...

Your senses will not be assailed by petrol fumes and rushing traffic...

But nature will beckon and encourage you to explore...

Asking you to look closely at the beautiful indigenous fynbos with which she has clothed the hillsides!

Nightlife?  You've got to be kidding!  Here you will be lulled into a state of sleepiness, as you watch the last rays of the sun dipping behind the mountain.

And, first thing in the morning, you will want to rush outdoors and take an even closer look at the magnificent flora...

No gardener has planned this spectacle of colour and fragrance...this is, quite simply, Nature at her best!

Such delicate perfection!

And, once again, the sound of the sea will attract your attention...

Mesmerising you with its spell...

Drawing you closer and closer...

Such beauty! 

So many options to explore...

Constantly changing light...

Each day offers something fresh and new...

Good walking shoes are a must (leave the heels behind!)

Breathe in deeply...fill your lungs with this good, fresh air!

One last look before you return to the hustle and bustle of city life!