Montagu is an easy drive from Cape Town, making it the perfect weekend away.
Getting there: The easiest and quickest way is probably to take the N1 out of Cape Town, turning off to Robertson when you get to Worcester. Follow Route 62 past Ashton, and through the dramatic Cogman’s Kloof to Montagu. Alternatively, continue on the N1 until De Doorns, and take the R318 South, which leads directly into Montagu. Finally, if the N1 is snarled up as it often is, take the N2 and head up to Swellendam, turning North-West on the R60 and heading toward Ashton and onto Route 62.
Rock climbing
Montagu is the rock climbing mecca of the Western Cape. Wherever you walk in the surrounding mountains, you will see white chalk marks smattered up the surrounding rock faces. Search for more on Cape-Hike.co.za under the tag “sports climbing”.
Hiking
The Bloupunt and Cogmans Kloof Trails start and end at Die Ou Meul at Badkloof. A late afternoon walk through Badkloof itself is also a relaxing outing.
Accommodation
Accommodation is plentiful in Montagu, ranging from the Avalon Springs Hotel, to numerous bed-and-breakfasts, as well as a number of campsites. I always camp at De Bos.
Restaurants
- De Oude Kombuis is simply stunning for a leisurely lunch
- Die Kloof Padstal
Things to do
- Visit the Spa and soak in the glorious warm water whilst enjoying the warm sun
- Take a donkey cart ride. 15 minutes, R25 for adults
- Drop-in and stock up at Montagu Dried Fruit & Nuts
- There are loads of good wine estates in the region
Die Kloof Padstal
Donkey cart ride
There is a great Spar with a Tops Liquor Store next door on Long Street (the name of Route 62 as it passes through Montagu) as you arrive. They are open till 8PM. Tel: 023 614 3080