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CAPTION > Lake Brenton, Knysna PHOTO > Fiona Claisse / Progression.me CAPTION > Hadlow, Brandvlei PHOTO > Ydwer.com
CAPTION > Wise guy, Aquila Game Reserve
CONDITIONS AND SET-UP
Muizenberg lies southeast of town, on the Indian Ocean side of the Cape and its warmer waters mark the start of your Garden Route journey. Muizenberg is just 20 minutes drive from the City and 45 minutes from the northern beaches, but is already way quieter for kiting than the northern bay. Cross-onshore, these will be more like the conditions you're probably used to coming from Europe. Very shabby-chic, Muizenberg is becoming more and more fashionable for city holidaymakers because of its rustic nature and elegantly rough charm around the edges. There's still a rawness and edge to the vibe here, but it's lovely and you can head from here, through Simon's Town and then over the hills to the other side of the Cape on an incredible drive, stopping for food, drinks, markets and even to swim with penguins (at Simon's Town). Head east instead and you're onto the much fabled Garden Route and all kinds of wonderful road adventures as you make your way into the vast South African countryside. Pull in at Witsands (there are a few spots with the same name!) along the way for some sublime, uncrowded flat water action (where Hadlow filmed this amazing video with William Milne: www.kiteworld.tv/primecuts/hadlowproject27-15/. There's loads of good value accommodation here in South Africa's biggest whale nursery and sleepy village if you get a good forecast and fancy a couple of days’ butter smooth riding. Continue another four hours east until you get to Sedgefield/Knysna and hook up with the guys from PiliPili for more unbelievable kiting experiences, downwinders and general outdoor adventure.
MUIZENBERG TO SEDGEFIELD AND KNYSNA
CAPTION > Fishin' n livin', Muizenberg
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ACCOMMODATION AND SCHOOL PILI PILI Located in Sedgefield, just outside Knysna, the guys from Pili Pili will show you a good time on the Garden Route, from guided downwinders, beginner and advanced lessons, SUPing and more, they also offer accommodation and have a beach bar on one of the top wave riding beaches on the coast. www.pilipili.co.za info@pilipili.co.za