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In the heart of the Outeniqua forests of the Garden Route lies the beautiful King Edward VII Picnic Site. The Big Tree, also known as the King Edward VII tree, is a famous landmark and visitor attraction near the Diepwalle Forest Station. This giant Outeniqua yellowwood (Podocarpus falcatus) tree is more than 800 years old and is one of the few giant trees left after the unsustainable method of tree harvesting was stopped in 1939. There are a number of secluded picnic tables and benches with barbecue facilities, all nestled within the splendour of tall, lush trees and forest ferns. Water & bush toilet are also available to picnickers. A minimal fee is required for the picnic area during the tourist season and there is a control boom. How to get there: From Knysna take the N2 towards Plettenberg Bay. About 4km from Knysna take the R339 Uniondale turnoff to the left and follow this road for 15. 8km and take the turnoff at the control boom to the left.

Vast open grassy spaces, and plenty of trees for shade, just perfect for relaxing in nature and enjoying an afternoon picnic. Resting in a Valley this picnic site offers beautiful scenery, tranquility and some forest exploring for the family. There is an easy, short 450m walk in the forest beneath the huge tree ferns and small trickling streams. The forest floor path can be slippery so do be careful when walking over tree roots and logs. Another a slightly more strenuous walk takes visitors to the incredibly beautiful Spitzkop viewpoint overlooking the Knysna Heads. An ideal day outing for the whole family & be sure to remember your camera! The picnic spot can be reached via the R339, along the Prince Alfred Pass and is situated near the Diepwalle State Forest Facilities: Wooden tables and benches, brei (fire) facilities, water and bush toilets. GPS Coordinates: S33 54. 842 E23 08. 583

Drupkelders - loosely translated into Dripping Cellars, are rock pools in the Knysna forest. Combine a 3. 5km indigenous forest walk with a visit to magnificent rock pools in the Homtini River in the Knysna Forest. These massive rock pools offer deep, cola-coloured waters to cool off in and even a waterfall to clamber up next to (to another series of pools) . Take a rucksack with picnic and swimming things and wear good walking shoes as there is a steep section near the river. Due to the exclusivity of this gem, only 12 persons a day are allowed in and a Sanparks permit is required (Wildcards are not accepted for this walk) . It is not expensive and you are required to keep the permits on you should officials ask you for it by the rock pools. This trail starts at the Forest Edge Nature-lovers Retreat gate entrance. What's offered * Two very large rock pools with more upstream to explore * NO ablution facilities available * NO refuse bins available * Enormous rocks to laze on

Situated alongside a spectacular 800 year-old Outeniqua Yellowwood Tree. This grassy site makes the ideal spot to spend a quiet few hours. There is a sizeable lawn that is perfect for running around or playing ball games, especially for little ones. It is also the start and end point of the nine kilometre Woodcutter Trail and the Homtini Cycle Route. Facilities: Wooden tables and benches, fire places, ablutions. GPS Coordinates: S33 55. 001 E22 57. 467

This trail is within walking distance of the EBB & FLOW Rest Camp. An immense wall of green punctured only by a human sized opening welcomes walkers into this cathedral of mature forest. The most popular trail in the Wilderness region it has many picnic points and lays nestled not more than 15 meters from the riverbank and may be accessed by canoe or foot, both promising a unique experience of this exquisite ecosystem. The Half-collared crosses the Touw River by means of a pontoon to join the Giant Kingfisher trail. Trees are appropriately numbered to facilitate tree spotters in finding their favourite trees. Mostly shaded by ancient giant trees, walkers can relax as they walk comfortably on the trail to its heart boasting a magnificent waterfall where, again, picnics may be had. Many birds especially the well-known Half-collared and Giant Kingfisher, Knysna Turaco, Fish Eagle and Black-headed Oriole may be seen. Bushbuck is also known to make graceful appearances stunning ...