Great Drives Eastern Cape
Scenic Drive along the Sunshine Coast
The Eastern Cape is a maze of scenic routes each with their own charms and fascinations, and our Avis mini guide to the Eastern Cape highlights many of the best.Ask our Avis rental agents for more inside information on this picturesque drive from Avis East London Airport to Port Alfred, they will be eager to assist where possible.
Head out with your Avis Hire Car to explore the open roads of the Eastern Cape.
Sunshine all the way with Avis
Warm hospitality and weather to match are what you can expect when you visit the Eastern Cape in your Avis Hire Car. This pristine and peaceful province boasts a long sandy shoreline, interspersed with river estuaries, and is a hotspot for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
After picking up your Avis hire car from our Avis East London Airport Branch, head off on a mini-road trip along the R72 towards Port Alfred for a taste of what the Sunshine Coast has to offer. Gradually the lush pastures along Settlers Way become more wooded as you approach the tiny hamlet of Winterstrand. This quaint village is a popular weekend fishing hideaway for East London locals, and the road starts to wind seaward.
As you inch closer to the coastline, you will cross the glistening expanse of the Gulu River, its banks exploding with lush indigenous vegetation, and wind your way alongside it down to Kidd’s Beach.
Make your way along the R72 for another 20-or so kilometres, and you will cross a large bridge arching skyward over the colourful boats bobbing on the Kowie River. This heralds your entrance into Port Alfred. Wide sandy beaches and a laid-back vibe are part of its charm, and this town maintains a fishing village atmosphere despite its rapid growth tourism-wise.
High points en route
Kidd’s Beach
Take the opportunity to take a breather from your travels and hop out of your Avis hire car to enjoy a milkshake or cool drink at the Blue Dolphin café. Your gaze will be drawn to the waves frothing over the craggy coastline while gazing over the tidal pool, as you sip on enjoy some refreshments.
Port Alfred
Having failed at making its mark as a major seaport, Port Alfred instead became famous as a haven for boating enthusiasts, fishermen and sun-worshippers alike. This bustling holiday destination is known as the ‘heart of the Sunshine Coast’.
The Big Pineapple
Located on the outskirts of town this 17m high pineapple pays homage to this delicious fruit and is a fun destination for all ages.
Free time on your hands? Take your pick from the following gems
Kelly’s Beach
Depending on the time available, you can head for the beach to collect seashells, surf, swim, water-ski or even scuba dive. It’s a must-visit destination to tick off your bucket list before heading back to East London Airport.
Bathurst
With the freedom of an Avis hire car at your disposal, you could take an alternative route back to your point of departure via the historic town of Bathurst. Once the administrative centre of the 1820 settlers, Bathurst has retained the look and feel of an early 19th Century English village.
Grahamstown
Originally a military outpost, Grahamstown was founded in 1812 and is the site of South Africa’s largest Arts Festival in July each year.
However far you choose to travel in your Avis hire car while visiting the Eastern Cape you are assured of lovely countryside to admire and friendly folk to welcome you wherever you go.