Located just outside of Plettenberg Bay is The Crags, a uniquely beautiful area with plenty on offer for nature lovers. The Crags falls into one of the most biodiverse areas in the world, with a variety of natural beauty. On the one side of The Crags the Tsitsikamma Mountains rise majestically, and on the other is the warm Indian Ocean.
Enjoy one of over 50 chartered walks in the area, whether along the sandy beaches, through the forest, or amongst the fynbos.
Wildlife
The area has a wide variety of wildlife and offers a great opportunity to view marine life including dolphins, whales, seals and orcas. You can join a boat excursion with Ocean Blue Adventure, or go on a sea kayaking adventure to the Robberg Nature Reserve as you paddle next to pods of dolphins and get to experience the beauty of the ocean.
If you'd prefer to keep your feet on dry land, head to the Birds of Eden, the largest free-flight aviary in the world. The 2.3ha sanctuary is home to over 3,000 birds. Visitors explore the sanctuary at their own pace on walkways that windup and down through the partly forested area taking you from the forest floor to the canopy above.
Alternatively pop next door to Monkeyland which provides a healthier and more natural life for ex-captive primates. The sanctuary is the world's first free-roaming, multi-species primate sanctuary, and is home to around 400 apes.
Arts and Crafts
The natural beauty of the Crags has inspired many a creative mind, and the relaxed coastal atmosphere adds to the honest simplicity of the arts and crafts.
For a unique art and craft experience plan a visit to Old Nick Village, an original 19th century Cape trading settlement. The village is home to a variety of art galleries, studios and shops. Enjoy beautiful gardens where resident peacocks wander, and discover ceramics, fine art, textiles and jewellery. A highlight is the weaving museum housing 19th century power looms in daily use. There is also a delightful tea garden and restaurant where freshly baked scones can be enjoyed.
Nature and Adventure
There is plenty of space to get out and enjoy the beauty of nature in the Crags. Head into the hills, explore rivers and rock pools, or find hidden caves.
Take a drive to the nearby Tsitsikamma Canopy Tours, and enjoy the beautiful Garden Route forest as you glide from platform to platform on steel cables. The Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour is a unique eco-adventure which takes place high above the forest floor. Visitors are fully harnessed, and the three-hour guided journey gives visitors the opportunity to feel part of the forest, to learn about the ecology, trees and giant ferns and to spot the elusive Knysna Loerie or Samago monkey.
Closer to the Crags is the Plett Puzzle Park where young and old can enjoy a variety of unique mazes. Go on a Forest Puzzle walk which takes you through the beautiful natural forest. For the kids there's a fun mini maze and jungle gym.