Natures Valley

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Geography and History

Natures Valley lies 29 kilometres from Plettenberg Bay, in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Natures Valley is flanked by an escarpment on one side and the Indian ocean on the other side and it forms part of the Tsitsikamma National Park. Natures Valley is situated at the mouth of the Groot River at the bottom of the Groot River pass.

The population in Natures Valley varies dramatically with the seasons, from less than 100 residents that live here during the off-season to an estimated 2000, excluding day visitors, during peak holiday season!

Activities

Natures Valley is probably one of the most beautiful areas of the Garden Route, nestled within the Tsitsikamma National Park coastal forest. It also has the only residential area within a South African National Park.

Southern Cape Bushbuck, Bushpigs, and wild birds can frequently be seen in the gardens of Nature's Valley village.

Scenic walks and trails abound to revitalise your soul in this true "garden" on the Garden route.

The Groot river flows into the Indian ocean and the estuary forms a lovely lagoon popular with holiday makers. Swimming, sailing and canoeing are some activities to be enjoyed.

The ecology and natural environment is closely monitored and managed.

Hiking trails and guided walks with the most interesting and beautiful fauna and flora with old indigenous trees and Cape fynbos .

The Tsitsikamma hiking trail starts at Natures Valley and ends at the Storms river bridge.

The famous Otter trail ends here and most hikers seek accommodation in Natures Valley after doing the Otter trail to rest up before moving on.

The Natures Valley Salt river day hike can be followed via the coast route or the Keurpad route and although difficult is exciting and worthwhile. The hike will take between 3 and 6 hours depending on fitness.

Accommodation

Natures Valley has managed to remain relatively ‘undiscovered’. It is a little hamlet of 50 houses, which are permanently occupied by the residents, who have managed to minimise any development that might spoil the area. Nature’s Valley has only one shop, no banks, and definitely no shopping malls!

Accommodation offered includes self-catering units and bed and breakfast and camping.