A quiet corner of Tsitsikamma where golden sands meet virgin forest
The only residential area inside any of South Africa’s notable 21 national parks, Nature’s Valley is a tranquil corner of Tsitsikamma. On three sides of the village are the dense, green yellowwood trees of the forest, in some cases rising so high they almost seem to pierce the sky, and on the fourth, the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean and a scattered selection of golden beaches. As you may have guessed, a stay here is firmly focused on nature and absorbing this untamed corner of South Africa – and there are plenty of hidden corners and wild spots to help you do so. Explore the peaceful lagoon and hunt out the perfect spot for a picnic in one of the waterside enclaves; canoe or kayak down the churning Groot River; stroll along the beach in the early morning mist; or take on the famous Tsitsikamma Mountain Trail, Pig’s Head or Salt River hikes, after which a hearty meal and a cold one in the local pub sounds just about right.