George, established in 1811 and named after King George III of England, is the largest town on the Garden Route. Before the arrival of settlers, the Khoi people living here called the area Outeniqua, which means "men laden with honey". A less literal translation could be "land of milk and honey", describing the region's warm temperate climate, rain throughout the year, fertile soils and luscious indigenous forests. The first Europeans to settle here were foresters, given the task to supply timber for wagons, railway sleepers and mine props. With much of the indigenous forest destroyed, plantations have taken its place and the forestry industry remains a major source of income to the region. During the hot, humid summer days locals flock to Herold's Bay or Victoria Bay to cool off. But the best way to explore the spectacular coastline is to take the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe, a steam train that runs between George and Knysna. The railway also passes through the Wilderness National Park and crosses the picturesque Kaaimans River. An experience no explorer should miss.
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