The Garden Route, known for its serene coastal beauty, has evolved from a mere holiday and retirement enclave into a vibrant community attracting families and professionals in search of a better lifestyle, reports Cape {town} Etc.
According to Pieter Jordaan, licensee for Seeff George, this picturesque region has become a haven for those yearning for safety, quality living, and a slower pace of life resulting in an impressive growth in property values, with an average increase of 35.5% over the past five years.
Notably, areas like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay recorded staggering increases of 70% and even 100% respectively in median property prices.
The burgeoning population of families and professionals now benefits from virtually nonexistent traffic, well-managed public spaces, and access to reputable schools, quality healthcare, and regional shopping facilities, making it an attractive alternative to congested metropolitan areas.
For golf enthusiasts, the Garden Route is nothing short of a golfing paradise. Prestigious estates such as Fancourt in George, Pezula in Knysna, and Pinnacle Point in Mossel Bay are not only esteemed for their breathtaking courses but also for the luxury homes that are fetching record prices, often starting from R5 million and soaring to over R10 million.
The rise of lifestyle and security estates specifically appeals to those looking to semigrate, where the trend indicates that high-end properties are commanding premium prices.
In the commercial heart of the Garden Route, George has reported property transactions totalling R3 billion in the year ending September, revealing a market characterised by limited supply and robust demand.
Average property prices have surged over 30% in just three years. As families search for the charm and amenities of George, development delays threaten to keep inventory scarce, driving up competition.
This city is well-liked for its mild climate, beautiful coasts, reputable schools, and comprehensive local services, drawing individuals seeking a more affordable lifestyle compared to Cape Town.
In Mossel Bay, the story is similarly encouraging. The area has gained traction among retirees and holiday investors, with overall property transactions surpassing pre-pandemic levels at R2.4 billion as of November 2025. Sales have been buoyed by the area’s lifestyle offerings, safety, and thriving tourism sector.
Locations such as Groot Brak and Dana Bay are particularly favoured among property buyers looking for diverse options across varying price brackets, with average sales hovering around R2.3 million.
Knysna further underscores this booming trend. With its renowned lagoon and waterfront attractions, demand for property in this area remains robust, having registered significant transactions amounting to R2.2 billion within the last year.
Luxury estates are now seeing their median freehold prices approach R3.9 million, up approximately 70% over five years. Properties in highly sought-after estates such as Thesen Islands and Pezula are now valued over R5 million, showcasing the area’s burgeoning appeal.
Lastly, Plettenberg Bay ranks as a premium destination for luxury buyers, with property prices nearly doubling in the last five years.
Owing to an influx of affluent investors, Plett now stands as the second most sought-after locale after the Atlantic Seaboard for luxury holiday homes, making it an attractive option for those looking to invest in holiday or retirement property.
The area’s wide range of high-end estates has garnered significant interest, with many buyers willing to spend more than R20 million in their search for the perfect coastal retreat.
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Coastal property market surges as demand for holiday homes rises
Picture: Supplied
