Storms River Bridge (Paul Sauer Bridge)
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Storms River Bridge (Paul Sauer Bridge)

4.5
·5k reviews·, South Africa

An iconic concrete arch bridge offering breathtaking views of the Storms River gorge, a must-see on the Garden Route.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
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Storms River Bridge (Paul Sauer Bridge)

Storms River Bridge (Paul Sauer Bridge)

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, golden light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic concrete arch bridge offering breathtaking views of the Storms River gorge, a must-see on the Garden Route.

4.5
(5k reviews)

"This spot is definitely up there! We loved walking the bridge and seeing the view. It's beautiful!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park at the Shops

Turn into the petrol station/shops for convenient and safe parking before accessing the bridge.

🚶‍♀️ Explore All Angles

Don't just walk across; use the connecting walkways underneath for unique views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Storms River Suspension Bridge

Storms River Suspension Bridge

Tsitsikamma National Park

Walk across the iconic suspension bridge for breathtaking views of the Storms River gorge and coastline.

Storms River Gorge Views

Storms River Gorge Views

From the bridge and surrounding viewpoints

Marvel at the dramatic cliffs and the powerful river carving its way through the landscape.

Under-Bridge Walkways

Under-Bridge Walkways

Beneath the Storms River Suspension Bridge

Explore unique perspectives and photo opportunities from the walkways connecting the bridge's ends.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Views

The Storms River Bridge offers stunning vistas, but crowds can impact your experience. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid peak times and enjoy the scenery more peacefully. Check for any ongoing construction that might affect access or views.

Access and Parking Tips

Access to the bridge is conveniently located near a petrol station and shops. Ample, safe parking is available. Follow the loop walk across the bridge and explore the connecting walkways underneath for different perspectives. A viewpoint is also situated behind the shops.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, golden light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Softer light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Name a better artist than God? 😍 #southafricatiktok🇿🇦 #southafrica #gardenroutesouthafrica #gardenroute #tsitsikammatourism #kayakandlilo #traveltiktok #nature #cavesandcliffs #outdoorlife #tourism #traveltok #easterncapetiktok #easterncape
@tezjxy_g28
69.4K likes • 656.5K views

🚗 Park at the Shops

Turn into the petrol station/shops for convenient and safe parking before accessing the bridge. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore All Angles

Don't just walk across; use the connecting walkways underneath for unique views. Reddit

#thingstodo #SAMA28 #travelsouthafrica #tsitsikamma #tsitsikammatourism #tsitsikammaactivities #tsitsikammanationalpark #tsitsikamaadventures
@bessley
68.2K likes • 5.6M views
Viewpoint beauty 😍 . . . . . . . . . . 📸@divasheng #bridges #travel #travelphotography #view #beautiful #beautifuldestinations #roadtrip #travelblogger #location #adventure #trip #gardenroute #gardenroutesouthafrica #gardenroutephotographer #funtimes
kirvyfit
95 likes • 0 views

📸 Capture the Scenery

The bridge and gorge offer incredible photo opportunities, especially during golden hours. TikTokInstagram

👟 Be Mindful of Steps

The hike involves many steps; wear comfortable shoes and be cautious on wet areas. Reddit

Garden route: lekker touren vandaag, koffie to go mee, playlistje aan. Ik vind road-trippen altijd heerlijk en gelukkig houden onze kinderen ook van autorijden. Genoten van de mooie uitzichten en we pakten een heerlijk speeltuintje tussen de bomen mee tot besluit 🌲🌿🛝🌳 #gardenroute #travelwithkids #travellingfamily #travelfamily #travellingwithkids #worldtrip #familyworldtrip #oneyeartravel #we...
travellinghighlanders
67 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park at the Shops

Turn into the petrol station/shops for convenient and safe parking before accessing the bridge. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore All Angles

Don't just walk across; use the connecting walkways underneath for unique views. Reddit

📸 Capture the Scenery

The bridge and gorge offer incredible photo opportunities, especially during golden hours. TikTokInstagram

👟 Be Mindful of Steps

The hike involves many steps; wear comfortable shoes and be cautious on wet areas. Reddit

⏳ Allow Extra Time

While the hike is estimated at an hour, it might take longer with photos and enjoying the views. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(5k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Storms River Bridge for its breathtaking views and impressive engineering. The accessibility and convenience of parking are highlighted as major positives. Some minor drawbacks include ongoing construction and the need for maintenance on certain structures, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive and memorable.

"Amazing! South Africa has so much beauty and this spot is definitely up there! We loved walking the bridge and seeing the view. It's beautiful!"

Roxy Klein

"To visit, turn into the petrol station and shops. There's plenty of safe parking available. From there you can do a loop walk across the bridge. There's connecting walkways that go underneath the bridge on both ends so you can cross from one side to the other. There's also a view point behind the shops."

Gerhard Geldenhuys

"Always a pleasant experience to stop there.. all staff are friendly and helpful, petrol attendants, staff at gift shops, at ezpress shops..each and every1 has a smile on their face. Makes you feel welcome. Even the black kitty .. soo cute.!he is just adorable."

melanie jantjes

What People Like

Stunning bridge and gorge views
Impressive engineering feat
Convenient parking and access

What People Dislike

Ongoing construction
Maintenance needed on railings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Storms River Bridge, also known as the Paul Sauer Bridge, is located in Tsitsikamma National Park along the Garden Route. You can access it by turning off the N2 highway into the Storms River Village area. Ample parking is available at the shops and petrol station near the bridge entrance. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is plenty of safe parking available at the petrol station and shops adjacent to the bridge. This makes it a convenient stop during your Garden Route journey. Reddit

Absolutely! The Storms River Bridge is a popular and scenic stop for road trips along the Garden Route, connecting Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. It's a great place to stretch your legs and take in the views. InstagramReddit

The most direct route is via the N2 highway. Look for signs indicating Storms River Village or Tsitsikamma National Park. The bridge is a prominent landmark once you are in the vicinity. TikTok

Yes, there are shops and a petrol station located right by the bridge, offering amenities and a place to rest before or after your visit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the bridge itself is accessible from the roadside, access to the broader Tsitsikamma National Park, which encompasses the bridge area, typically requires an entrance fee. It's advisable to check SANParks for the latest fees and operating hours. TikTok

The bridge and surrounding viewpoints are generally accessible during daylight hours. However, if you plan to enter Tsitsikamma National Park for hiking trails, confirm the park's official opening and closing times. TikTok

Tickets for the national park can often be purchased online in advance through the SANParks website, which can save time. For just accessing the bridge area from the roadside, advance booking is usually not required. TikTok

Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help you avoid crowds and enjoy the stunning views with softer lighting. Reddit

Generally, there are no specific restrictions for walking across the bridge itself. However, always be mindful of safety signage and any temporary closures due to maintenance or construction. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The main activity is walking across the iconic suspension bridge and enjoying the panoramic views of the Storms River gorge. You can also explore the walkways underneath the bridge and visit the viewpoint behind the shops. TikTokReddit

A visit to the bridge itself, including walking across and taking photos, can take about 30-60 minutes. If you plan to do any of the associated hikes within Tsitsikamma National Park, allow for more time. Reddit

The walk across the bridge is relatively easy, but there are many steps involved in accessing the walkways and viewpoints. Be prepared for some inclines and declines. Reddit

Yes, Storms River Bridge is located within Tsitsikamma National Park, which is renowned for its beautiful hiking trails, including the famous Otter Trail and the Mouth Trail. TikTok+1

Expect breathtaking views of the Storms River gorge, the rugged coastline, and the lush indigenous forest. The sheer height of the bridge offers a dramatic perspective. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The bridge itself is a prime subject. For unique angles, use the walkways underneath. The viewpoints behind the shops also offer great perspectives of the gorge and coastline. TikTokInstagram

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. This also helps avoid harsh midday sun. TikTok

Drone usage is often restricted in national parks and protected areas. It's essential to check the specific regulations for Tsitsikamma National Park before flying a drone. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the bridge and gorge. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the cliffs. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing sky and water. Instagram

Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when standing near the edge or on slippery surfaces. Ensure your equipment is secure, and never compromise safety for a photo. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Storms River Bridge offers a relatively accessible experience for families. The walk across the bridge is manageable, and the connecting walkways provide interesting vantage points. The nearby shops and petrol station offer amenities, and the general atmosphere is welcoming. Instagram

While the hike involves steps, many families find it enjoyable. Consider bringing snacks and water, and ensure children are supervised, especially near the edges. The natural beauty and the impressive bridge structure can captivate younger visitors, making it a memorable stop on a family road trip. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers

The Storms River Bridge is an essential stop for anyone driving the Garden Route. Its convenient location off the N2 and ample parking make it an easy place to pull over and break up a long journey. TikTokInstagram

Take a moment to walk across the bridge, soak in the incredible views, and capture some iconic photos. It's a perfect spot for a quick, yet impactful, dose of South Africa's natural splendor and engineering marvels. The friendly staff at the adjacent facilities also add to the welcoming experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Engineering Marvel: Paul Sauer Bridge

The Storms River Bridge, officially named the Paul Sauer Bridge, is a significant feat of engineering. Constructed in the 1950s, this concrete deck arch bridge stands an impressive 394 feet (120 meters) above the Storms River. Its construction was a major undertaking, connecting vital routes along the Garden Route and becoming an iconic landmark. The bridge's design allows for a dramatic perspective of the river carving through the rugged landscape below. TikTokInstagram

Visitors often marvel at the sheer scale and the surrounding natural beauty. The bridge is not just a crossing but a destination in itself, offering stunning photographic opportunities and a sense of awe at the human ingenuity that created it. The surrounding area, part of the Tsitsikamma National Park, further enhances the experience with its indigenous forests and dramatic coastline. TikTok+1

While the bridge is the main attraction, the surrounding infrastructure, including walkways and viewpoints, has been developed to enhance visitor experience. Despite some ongoing construction noted by visitors, the bridge remains a must-see for its historical significance and breathtaking natural setting. Reddit

Experiencing Tsitsikamma National Park

The Storms River Bridge is a gateway to the wonders of Tsitsikamma National Park, a protected area renowned for its diverse ecosystems and adventure activities. The park offers a range of experiences, from scenic drives and short walks to more challenging multi-day hikes like the famous Otter Trail. TikTok+1

Visitors can explore the indigenous forests, discover hidden waterfalls, and witness the dramatic coastline where the forest meets the sea. Popular activities include kayaking and liloing on the Storms River, zip-lining through the canopy, and exploring various hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels. The park is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. TikTok

Camping and accommodation options are available within the park, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty for longer. The park's commitment to conservation ensures that these pristine landscapes are preserved for future generations to enjoy. Reddit

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