A collaborative initiative between George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism and the George Tourism Advisory Committee is set to enhance the George trail network and reinforce the region’s reputation as Africa’s premier golfing destination.
The George Tourism Advisory Committee, comprising private-sector tourism stakeholders in voluntary roles, is working closely with the tourism office to provide feedback on industry trends and ensure joint marketing efforts are effectively implemented. This partnership aims to preserve and promote the trails, ensuring they remain safe, ecologically sustainable and appealing for domestic and international visitors.
In March 2024, the Section 80 Committee for Planning and Development tasked George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism with creating a non-profit entity to lead joint marketing and development initiatives with private-sector partners. The objectives of this effort aim to enhance the George trail network and establish the region, particularly the Garden Route, as Africa’s “Home of Golf”.
On October 22 last year, stakeholders convened at Fancourt to launch the George Joint Marketing Association – a registered non-profit organisation driving public-private collaborations to elevate the region’s tourism profile.
The trail network project has made notable progress with partnerships established among trail clubs such as Conquer Together, Hillbillies and Garden Route Trail Running as well as local businesses, event organisers and safety initiatives like Keep Our Mountain Safe. Simultaneously, efforts to position the Garden Route as a golfing hub are advancing.
One key development is the transfer and relaunch of the George Trails website – now managed by the trail community. The updated site offers current, engaging content and remains free for residents and visitors with plans to introduce revenue streams like advertising and memberships to fund maintenance and safety measures.
The initiative represents a significant step in aligning public and private efforts to position George as a world-class destination for adventure tourism and sports.
