Slow Town Living in Sedgefield

Slow living is more than a way of life in the Garden Route gem of Sedgefield: it’s a philosophy that forms the very fabric of this peaceful village. Sandwiched between buzzing big brothers George and Knysna, Sedgefield has the distinction of being South Africa’s only certified Slow Town.

The town is affiliated with the Cittaslow movement, which was developed in Italy to encourage harmonious, healthy living and respect for the environment. Cittaslow towns are guided by 55 pledges, grouped into categories such as environmental policy, infrastructure, quality of urban fabric, encouragement of local produce and products, hospitality and community.

There’s no better place to slow down and rejuvenate. The sparklingly clean town spreads out from five wide, beautiful beaches, along the Swartvlei River and onto the forested banks of a large estuary.

The best way to get a feel of the town itself is to drive, walk or cycle the 8 km Slow Town Tourist Route. The route takes you to interesting little shops and cafes, the fragrance-filled garden of the Herb Lady in Egret Street, the landmark residence known as The Castle and a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the lagoon. You’ll also get a taste of two colourful townships, the Sizamile indigenous plants nursery adjacent to the dune forest, and the lovely Myoli Beach. Myoli is the epicentre for adventure activities, with kite-surfing, paragliding, surfing, water skiing, snorkelling, horse riding, beach volleyball and beach golf all on offer. The forests around the town are superb for hiking, bird-watching and mountain biking.

A couple of kilometres west of the Zandvlei rivermouth, Gerickes Point is one of Sedgefield’s must visit attractions. This little peninsula is most famous for Gerickes Lion, a sandstone rock which looks like the big cat when viewed from the right angle. From the top, you’re treated to a magnificent view of the ocean all around you – keep an eye out for whales and dolphins! For a more in-depth look at all the accommodation, activities and attractions Sedgefield has to offer.