Enjoy a nature hike at Easter

The Hi-Tec Garden Route Walking Festival takes place over the Easter weekend, from Friday to Monday, 30 March to 2 April, offering more than 52 different walks to choose from between Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and Nature's Valley.

The festival is an exciting option for visitors and locals to get off the beaten track with easy walks or adventurous hikes on the Garden Route.

"Walking festivals are an ideal way to discover new places and meet other people who share a passion for the outdoors," comments festival founder Galeo Saintz.

"This festival is unique as it involves the support and involvement of all the local communities, from volunteer walk leaders to professional guides. Our nature gems on the Garden Route are cared for by South African National Parks and CapeNature, who are 100% behind this exciting outdoor event."

There are walks for everyone, from slow saunters along the beach at the end of the day to brisk walks up some of the region's highest peaks, such as George Peak and Peak Formosa in the Tsitsikamma. Some of the easier walks include the Brown-Hooded Kingfisher Trail and the Circles in the Forest Elephant Walk, while more intrepid hikers can tackle the Nature's Valley to Plett Walk. A variety of festive walks such as the Fancy Dress Masked Walk at sundown, or the Inner Magic Walk for Kids, promise great fun with friends and family. Highlights for the kids are the Coastal Pirate Walk and Treasure Hunt.

The funds raised through participating in the festival benefit 11 different Garden Route environmental charities and conservation initiatives. Registration for the festival and many of the walks are free, but those that require permits or are guided by a professional guide require a fee.

For information, contact the organiser, Galeo Saintz (082 888 8181 or info@ walkingfestival.co.za) or visit the facebook page, Garden Route Walking Festival. See the full walking programme on the website, www.walkingfestival.co.za

‘Walking festivals are an ideal way to discover new places and meet other people who share a passion for the outdoors.’

The festival is about celebrating nature and lifestyle on the Garden Route.

There are walks to everyone’s taste, from slow saunters along the beach at the end of the day to brisk walks up some of the region’s highest peaks.

Spend quality time with friends in beautiful surroundings.

The walks are led by local walk leaders who are regular walkers in the region and know the local secrets, be they swimming spots or places of historical note.