Here’s a handy tip if you are planning on travelling up the Garden Route but you want to take it real slow or just stop somewhere to recharge your batteries along the way.
Look no further than the Mardouw Country House, a delightful farmstead situated just off the famous Route 62 between Ashton and Swellendam. I was heading up the Garden Route myself you see, but instead of taking the N2 upcountry I decided upon the road less travelled. And that made all the difference.
Bursting for the toilet and desperate for something other than a greasy burger from a petrol station, I checked into the Mardouw Country House for coffee and breakfast – and more coffee. It was a perfect stopover, nestled near lush forest with a panorama of verdant green mountains stretching out into the distant rolling hills. The staff were friendly and helpful, the grub was excellent and the coffee did the trick.
Had I more time (as is always the case) I would have gladly stayed a day or two. Mardouw is the perfect place to while away the time or start a trek in search of the horizon.
Or you can just stop for a coffee and fry-up on your way along the Garden Route. It is worth it.