Due to the recent devastating floods in the George area, which resulted in the possibility of dangerous slippage at Dolphins Point, the popular Outeniqua Choo Tjoe's schedule has had to be put on hold. But don't despair. An exciting new alternative, which will particularly benefit people holidaying in the Mossel Bay area, has been brought on stream.

The scenery on this route rivals that between George and Knysna, with the bonus of spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. From November 3 to December 14 trains will run between George and Hartenbos on Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays. From December 15 to January 14 it will be increased to a daily service (excluding Sundays and Christmas Day). Thereafter the three-times weekly return service from George to Hartenbos will still be offered until March 2007.

On leaving George the train travels through beautiful farmlands before descending to the crossing at the Gwaing River Gorge. A few kilometres further on it crosses the Maalgaten River by means of an impressive four-pillar steel bridge spanning the gorge high above the riverbed. After the Outeniqua siding the railway line follows the contours of the hillside down to the Indian Ocean, and magnificent views of Glentana, Pienaaarstrand and the coastline towards Mossel Bay unfold. Thereafter it runs along the coast past Rheebok, Great Brak River and Klein Brak River, crossing several rivers before arriving at Hartenbos. Here passengers will have time for a drink or a quick meal, or browse in the souvenir shops, before embarking for the return journey.

• Fares: Adults single R70, return R90; Children under 16 single R40, return R50; children under six travel free. On the George-Hartenbosch run trains depart George at 10am, arriving at Hartenbos at 11.40am, and leave again at 1pm, arriving at George at 2.30pm. On the Hartenbos-George run trains depart Hartenbos at 10am, arriving at George 11.40am, and leave again at 1.15pm, arriving at Hartenbos at 2.55pm.
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