Storms River: 5 steps to family friendly fun

My Facebook timeline has been a flood of memories lately with each day showing what we were up to, this time last year. It made a pleasant change from what we’d been doing every year before that when my Facebook updates were simply yawn worthy. Now if that isn’t a reason to sell your house and road trip around your country, I don’t know what is. 😉

With our stay in the Storms River Valley being top of mind at the moment, it made me remember what a great holiday destination it is. When you base yourself at the Tsitsikamma Village Inn for example, you can easily spend a week in the valley doing something different every day.

1. Under the Storms River BridgeDespite being very familiar with the petrol station as the perfect stop to stretch your legs on your long journey to somewhere else, I had never actually followed the path under the bridge before. Park at the petrol station and then find your way through the trees. It leads you to a path under the bridge that takes you to the look out point on the other side, for spectacular views of the gorge. And trust me when I say, it’s gorge-ous. For bonus points, don’t forget to send a postcard home from the travel office near the petrol station forecourt. (And see if it gets delivered before you arrive home).
2. Tsitsikamma Falls AdventureAs this is the last stop in the Storms River Valley, it makes sense to mention in here assuming you are going home after your trip rather than continuing on to say, Port Elizabeth. Make a booking and prepare yourself to zip line over waterfalls and the most stunning views.
3. Segway Tour to the Big TreeThe entrance fee to see The Big Tree is actually pretty expensive so, it makes far more sense to pay and few hundred Rand more, to take a Segway to go and see it. At least getting to the big tree will be fun and you can tick off your desire to want to ride a Segway at the same time.
4. Tsitsikamma National ParkSet aside a day to visit this National Park and hike to the Storms River bridge. Pack a picnic or visit the restaurant while you’re there. Oh, and beware of the dassies. They may be cute, but their desire for your food makes them dangerous.
5. Black Water Rafting with Tube n Axe The adventurous among us may want to combine their trip to Tsitsikamma National Park with some black water rafting on the Storms River. It’s a great way to see the other side of the Storms River as you paddle your way to the Storms River Mouth and get to see the bridge from the other side.