George, Western Cape

George at a glance

At the foot of the majestic Outeniqua mountain range, you'll discover George. The town is well-connected with an established road network and the George airport which links it to the rest of the country.

George is known for pleasant living. While its weather does err on the wet side, you'll reap the benefits. The town has some of the world's most unique flora, diverse wildlife and stunning views. Residents and tourists delight in the watersports, mountain hikes, cosy coffee shops, and historical sites on offer. The town boasts affordable living and low levels of pollution and traffic. These factors helped it come out on top for having the best quality of life in South Africa.

With so much to appreciate about the area, it has become a sought-after part of the Garden Route.

A brief history of the area

George has a prominent place in South African history. It is the sixth oldest town in the country. It's also the first that was founded under British rule. George was named after the reigning monarch in 1811, King George III. The town has its roots as a woodcutter's outpost. The Dutch East India Company needed to meet a demand for timber and wood for building, transport and furniture. They saw the potential of the nearby Outeniqua forests.

Climate

George has a marine climate. Visitors and residents can expect warm summers and mild to cool winters. Pleasant living is further enhanced by an average annual temperature of 16.2 °C. The area also sees some of the highest rainfall in South Africa. This has turned George into a lush green paradise. The Outeniqua mountains affect weather patterns and humidity levels. You will experience more humid conditions the closer you live to the mountain range.

Schools in the area

George schools will help your child achieve more in life. You will find great options in the area.

Primary schools include Outeniqua Primary, Holy Cross Primary School, Laerskool George-Suid and Laerskool Blanco.

High schools include Outeniqua Hoërskool, George High School, Pacaltsdorp High and Glenwood House School (Grade 000 to Grade 12).

Healthcare in the area

George has a range of healthcare facilities. You can receive medical care from George Hospital, Mediclinic George, Blanco Clinic and Lawaaikamp Clinic, to name a few places. You can also consult a general practitioner, obstetrician chiropractor or paediatrician in the area. If you have a pet, George Animal Hospital and the VetCare Animal Clinic will keep them healthy.

Shopping centres

Shopping is simple to get done in George. With many malls and centres in the area, you'll enjoy a convenient retail experience.

Paddagat Shopping Centre has a safe, welcoming atmosphere. It's hard to imagine this delightful centre is built on what use to be a marshy area. Paddagat is ideal for groceries, clothing, paint, technology, music, banking, and more.

Garden Route Mall promises that they have everything you may want - and they mean it. You could spend the entire day shopping here. There's a selection of stores including fashion and footwear, home decor, books and stationery, jewellery, and more. For entertainment, you can take in a movie or participate in one of the events the mall occasionally hosts.

Eden Meander Lifestyle Center makes shopping fun, smart and rewarding. It has a variety of stores from Checkers to Sportsmans Warehouse.

Distance from key points (Airport/CBD)

The driving distance from George central to George Airport is 9.5 km. This will take you roughly 7 minutes to reach your destination with an average speed of 80 km/h.

Restaurants

Even the most discerning diner will be pleased by George's eateries. There are many local favourites that will turn you into a regular patron. You can eat out at Old Townhouse Restaurant, 101 Meade Restaurant and Bar, Kafe Serefé, Pure Craft and Food, to name a few places. All of these restaurants have earned positive reviews for their delicious choices, fine service and friendly atmospheres.

For a convenient stop, there are plenty of fast food outlets. These include Steers, Roman's Pizza and MacDonald's.

Special attractions

1. Mountain Passes

There are two notable mountain passes. The Outeniqua pass connects George to Oudtshoorn and the Little Karoo. It provides a lovely scenic drive with plenty of photo opportunities. The Montague pass was the first road between George and Oudtshoorn. It holds the title of the oldest, unaltered pass still in use in South African. Along the way, you can visit the historic Toll House which sheltered the toll keeper and his family.

2. Outeniqua Transport Museum

When you see the steam trains at this museum, it will bring out the child in you. You'll be fascinated by the local transportation history, and all the trains and related memorabilia on display.

3. Outeniqua Power Van

This is an unforgettable trip by rail through the Outeniqua mountains. For two and a half hours, you'll get to see the unique forests and fynbos of the area. Bring a picnic basket to take advantage of the half-hour stop along the way.

4. Red Berry Farm

The farm is a family-friendly entertainment venue. It offers a number of fun activities including bumper boats, hedge mazes, pedal go-karts, strawberry picking and pony rides.

5. George Botanical Gardens

For a stunning natural display, be sure to pay the gardens a visit. It holds a number of plants indigenous to the Southern Cape region within a 19-hectare space. Guided tours, hiking, park runs and geocaching are some of the many things you can do here.

6. Victoria Bay

Just 20 minutes from George central is this charming beach. With rising cliffs and rolling waves, it boasts immeasurable beauty. It provides wonderful conditions for swimming and surfing during the summer months.

Make George your home. Let it be your story.

The gateway to the Garden Route is waiting for you. George has a range of properties from townhouses, estates to flats. Our Seeff George team promises to make your move as hassle-free as possible.