Situated halfway between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, Harkerville is in good company. The settlement of Harkerville is surrounded by natural forest and is a short distance away from the warm Indian Ocean on the southern coastline of South Africa.
Harkerville is regarded as an eco-tourism mecca. Mountain bikers arrive from all parts of the world to attempt the challenging MTB forest routes and the spectacular hiking trails here are a major drawcard. Harkerville’s location is central enough too for easy access to all conveniences and significant tourist attractions.
Visitors who enjoy adrenalin filled activities by day and demand solitude and tranquillity by night will truly appreciate Harkerville.
Things to do
The 2-day Harkerville hiking trail is a thrilling route traversing forests, rivers and steep cliffs, clambering over rock faces, using chains and ladders as aids along parts of the route and with majestic sea and mountain views.
Pack a picnic basket and spend a fun-filled day at Plettenberg Bay Adventure Land where water activities such as the 2-lane racer, kamikaze and freefall slides are available to the family. Open 7 days a week during summer.
Visit the Harkerville Saturday Market to stock up on fresh organic products and free range poultry direct from the farm. Vendors sell beautiful craftwork and you have the opportunity to purchase skin care products made from the aloe plant, common along the Garden Route. Indigenous cultures recognised the medicinally properties of the plant and have used it for centuries.
There are no less than 5 Blue Flag-appointed beaches in the surrounding area. The most popular are Lookout Beach in Plettenberg Bay for long walks and possible whale sightings, Nature’s Valley Beach, a true paradise and Robberg 5 Beach, a popular surfing spot.
There are many other major attractions nearby, including the Knysna Elephant Park, Birds of Eden and the Robberg Nature Reserve.
Where to Eat
The nearby town of Plettenberg Bay has over 60 restaurants and Knysna to the west has roughly the same amount, however, Harkerville has marvelous restaurants of its own:
Zinzi Restaurant is an elegant restaurant with stunning modern décor, with a large fireplace and casual outdoor veranda. It has views over the lake and beautiful surrounding countryside. The first-rate dishes change according to what’s freshly sourced from nearby farms.
Coral Breeze Café just off the highway offers nicely prepared light breakfast and lunch meals served with virtuous coffee.
Enjoy an excellent dining experience under thatch or on the terrace at the Hunter's Country House Restaurant. The cosmopolitan dishes are elevated by the chef’s creativity.
Night Life
Loved by the locals, Nicky’s Bush Pub hosts regular events, from parties to spit braais (barbeques) to keep the patrons thoroughly entertained.
Delight in a cold beer from the local Mitchells Brewery, the pioneers of the craft beer revolution, established in Knysna in 1983 and naturally brewed.
Where to Stay
The peaceful guest houses, self-catering units and camp sites in Harkerville allow the visitor an opportunity to completely relax and unwind.
Transport
Air The nearest major airport is George Airport 85km from Harkerville. Charter a flight to Plettenberg Bay Airport, only 12km away.
Car Rental agencies can be found in the nearby towns of Plettenberg Bay and Knysna. Otherwise collect a vehicle from the airport or you could order a rental online.
Taxi There are no taxi services in the village, however, there are shuttle services available from the airports to Harkerville.
Bus Harkerville is on the InterCity bus route that travels daily between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.
Did you know?
The Garden of Eden, one of the area’s major attractions, is located in the Harkerville Forest. The short walking route passes gigantic, ancient yellowwood trees in the indigenous forest.
In 1927, a number of California Redwood trees were planted in Harkerville Forest to determine their suitability for commercial logging. The plantation is currently being cleared but for a single 33m high specimen.
