A 5 Day, 5 Night Luxury Slackpacking Experience in George

The Outeniqua Explorer is a curated, multi-day slackpacking journey designed for discerning hikers who value both wilderness immersion and refined comfort. Set between the dramatic peaks of the Outeniqua Mountains and the sweeping coastline of the Garden Route, this experience blends guided trail exploration, exceptional local flavours, and relaxed coastal living.

Your private base for five nights is a stunning home overlooking Herolds Bay beach — a space to unwind, reconnect, and restore after each day on the trail. Luggage is transported, logistics are handled, and each day is thoughtfully designed to balance movement with leisure.

The Experience

Day/Afternoon 1 – Villa Arrival
Arrival in George with private airport transfer to your Herolds Bay villa. Depending on your arrival time, you will have the day or afternoon to relax and settle in the villa, where you can enjoy the endless ocean views while soaking in the Kolkol hot tub, having a dip in the beautiful pool or simply relaxing before the Meet & Greet dinner and drinks evening.

Day 2 – Coastal Exploring
On the first day we will enjoy a walk along the beach to the SS Baralong shipwreck. Depending on the tides, the walk may happen either in the morning or the afternoon followed by a post walk morning coffee or drink at the beautiful Glentana cafe.

Day 3 – Mountain Heritage
A signature hike in the Outeniqua range, traversing fynbos clad slopes and panoramic ridge lines. We finish off with a pause at the historic Old Tol House for coffee or tea and their famed pancakes. Lunch is enjoyed at a local restaurant before a free afternoon to relax at your leisure.

Day 4 – Forest & Pools
A lush forest walk leads to secluded mountain pools, ideal for a refreshing dip. Lunch is served at The Pottery at Wonki Ware, known for its artisanal setting and beautifully prepared seasonal fare. The afternoon and evening are yours to unwind at the villa.

Day 5 – Contrasting Landscapes
We cross to the north facing slopes of the mountain range, where the terrain shifts to a drier, more rugged landscape with expansive views. The day concludes with a wine tasting at Herold Wines, followed by free time to enjoy the Herolds Bay tidal pool.

Morning 6 – Rail & Ridge Picnic
A memorable morning aboard the Outeniqua Power Van takes us into the mountains for a scenic picnic. After returning, guests are transferred to the airport.

The Villa

Perched above the coastline of Herolds Bay, Salt & Sea Villa is an exclusive retreat designed for comfort, privacy, and uninterrupted ocean views. Expansive living spaces open toward the sea, while a private swimming pool and wood fired Kolkol hot tub invite slow evenings under open skies. Solar power ensures seamless comfort throughout your stay.

Each bedroom is individually appointed and can be configured as either an extra length king or twin setup, offering flexibility for couples, friends, or private groups travelling together.

This is a space created for restoration , where panoramic views, considered design, and the steady rhythm of the ocean set the tone for a refined coastal escape.

Designed Around You

The Outeniqua Explorer is a half-catered slack packing tour where a self service buffet breakfast is provided each morning, a delicious home cooked dinner will be served at the villa each evening and hiking snack packs are provided for all hiking days. Guests may also extend their stay, with additional guided hikes and curated activities available before or after the tour.

This is hiking without compromise — immersive days on trail, refined evenings by the sea, and a seamless experience from arrival to departure.

Contact Colleen at info@southernsummitstrailtours.co.za for bookings & enquiries