Cruise the Crags: A paradise packed with holiday activities

The Crags is a hip-and-happening place; a destination with a difference right in the middle of the Garden Route, with the popular coastal town of Plettenberg Bay and the quaint village of Nature’s Valley as its partners in fun.

The Crags has scores of activities and a host of accommodation establishments packed into a 30km radius.

Biggest attractions in The Crags

Magnificent Birds of Eden is the world’s largest free-flight aviary and bird sanctuary. Image: Supplied

Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, the Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, the Lawnwood Snake Sanctuary, The Elephant Sanctuary, Hog Hollow Horse Trails, the Big Three (whales, dolphins, seals) at Ocean Blue Adventures, and canoeing trips up the Bitou and Keurbooms River are among the area’s big attractions.

Ocean Blue Adventures offers boat-based whale and dolphin excursions, and other outings. Image: Supplied

Visitors who enjoy a spot of shopping can do so at Siya Phambili and Women on the Move – two local community initiatives – as well as at Zandla Zam and the Mill Mohair & Décor Centre. Don’t forget Old Nick Village with its amazing variety of linens, art, crafts, clothing and furniture.

The Crags even has its own Puzzle Park where you can give your mind a workout in a conundrum- posing maze. And for those who need a fix, a bit of adrenaline-pumping excitement against a stunning indigenous backdrop at Africanyon and Bloukrans Bungy is your answer.

Monkeyland is a multi-species primate sanctuary in an indigenous forest. Image: Supplied

Eating out in The Crags area

For wining and dining, The Crags is the hub of the Plett Winelands — though the wining part is off limits for the time being given renewed lockdown Level 3 restrictions. The area’s pioneer in wine growing, Bramon Wine Estate, offers mouthwatering tapas lunches. Newstead Family Vineyard is another chic place to hang out for lunch, though it will be closed on New Year’s Day itself.

At the magnificent Kay & Monty estate you can also enjoy yummy lunches, and for something slightly different try the honeybush teas and olive oils at Lodestone Wines & Olives. You could even ride to the estates on horseback — always a treat.

If it’s the sea you desire to admire while eating, you can’t get closer than Enrico’s Restaurant – and the food is super good, not to mention the ambience. And don’t forget Roost at Old Nick Village with their tempting treats.

For something quirky and delicious, Ville Villakula is a must (you’ll meet Jenny, their adorable donkey). The Bread and Brew has created a niche in the pie and decadent treats department – they are hands down brilliant.  If it’s a mouth-watering pizza you desire, try The Peppermill, which has enough space for the children to run around too.

A very special shop — Nature’s Way Farm Stall — is a must for cheeses and farm produce, and they do lunches too. If you phone in advance you can even go and watch the cows being milked, which makes for a lovely family outing.

Where to stay in and around The Crags

From the hustle and bustle of Plettenberg Bay to the delights of The Crags, leave yourself time to enjoy all the delights of the area, for instance by taking a wander down the R102 to explore the natural wonders of Nature’s Valley.

In the evening, when good food and a good night’s rest beckons, choose from fabulous five-star hotels, four star lodges and comfy country houses, beautiful B&Bs, quirky self-catering cottages and homes, and a backpackers with a difference. Accommodation wise the area has something to suit every taste and budget.