Uncover the Magic of the Klein Karoo

The Karoo region, located in the Western Cape province of South Africa, has two equally magical parts – namely, the Groot (Great) Karoo in the north and the Klein (Little) Karoo in the south. The latter is a true hidden gem, promising countless adventures.

As you make your way down Route 62 from Robertson through Montagu, Barrydale and Calitzdorp towards Oudtshoorn and the Garden Route, the scenery around you slowly transforms from the lush green rolling hills of the Cape Winelands to the semi-arid beauty of the Klein Karoo.

Cradled by the Swartberg, Outeniqua and Langeberg mountain ranges, the region is not only home to the Big 5 and a large number of ostrich farms, but probably has the most rich and diverse succulent habitats in the world.

If you are keen for a road trip down Route 62 toward the Garden Route, you will find Oudtshoorn which is the largest town of the Klein Karoo. Visit the ostrich farms, the Cango caves and Cango Wildlife Ranch, or go hot air ballooning over one of the most beautiful landscapes in South Africa.

If you enjoy visiting and exploring quaint, small towns teeming with quirky shops and great eateries, you are in for a treat in this wonderfully unspoiled part of South Africa. Visit Montagu, which is chockfull of beautiful Cape Dutch architecture steeped in history and famous for its other-worldly rock formations, lush fruit orchards, vineyards and healing hot mineral springs. You can also enjoy stop-offs in Barrydale, best known for its local arts and crafts.

Gorgeous scenery, ample wildlife, and delicious farm-fresh food and wine. What more could anyone want from a getaway to remember?

Activities & Local Attractions

Wine tasting on the Klein Karoo wine route

The microclimates of the Klein Karoo lend themselves to the health of its vineyards and make it possible for winemakers to cultivate a huge variety of grapes to produce a delicious diversity of wines. If you are looking for specialty wines of the region, you cannot go wrong with a generous glass of Muscadel or Cape Port-style wine. There are many wine farms to visit on the Klein Karoo wine route, including Drie Berge Winery in Montagu, De Krans Wines in Calitzdorp and Herold Wines on the Montagu Pass to name just a few.

Anysberg Nature Reserve

Situated between Ladismith, Laingsburg, Tousrrivier and Montagu, this 80000ha reserve was declared South Africa’s 6th World Heritage Site in 2014. Besides the mesmerising landscape and rich plant, bird and animal life, the reserve is also home to San rock art, painted thousands of years ago. Get your day visitor’s permit and enjoy everything the reserve has to offer like swimming, birding, kayaking on the dam, mountain biking, horse riding and more. If you prefer living life in low gear, why not take on one of the 4x4 trails?

Montagu Tractor Trips

The legendary tractor trips on Protea Farm, Montagu, have become an international tourist attraction since 1985. The tractor pulling its load of sightseers will meander its way up the Langeberg Mountain to an altitude of 1500m above sea level. The trip provides a stunning bird’s eye views of the KOO and Breede River valleys. After a brief pit stop at the Arangieskop Mountain Hut, where muscadel and dried fruit is served, a typical farmhouse potjiekos meal awaits you at the end of the trip.

Spend the day at Avalon Springs

At Avalon Springs there is no shortage of fun for kids and adults alike. Soak up the mineral rich waters of the natural hot springs and set up your spot in the picnic area. The kids will have the time of their lives on the 60m water slide, splashing in the outdoor pools and enjoying a game of mini golf on the outdoor playground.

Explore the Cango Caves

Once renowned as the ‘ostrich capital’ of the world, this beautiful town has many adventures to offer and is definitely worth the trip. One of the most breathtaking sights is definitely the enormous Cango Caves complex dripping with limestone stalagmite and stalactite formations. It is the only cave on the African continent where visitors have the choice between both heritage and adventure tours. The adventure tour, in particular, is definitely not for the faint-hearted as you’ll find yourself getting a decent dose of adrenalin by crawling through tight spaces and climbing up some of the rock formations. The kids will love it!

Karoo Daisy

If you’re keen to be served authentic ‘Karoo cuisine’ with a twist or are simply looking for a charming space to fuel up with a hearty brunch, pop into the Karoo Daisy in Barrydale. Favourites include the homemade bread (so delicious visitors are said to drive from Cape Town to buy loaves!), jazzed-up roosterkoek, freshly roasted Nagaland coffee, thin crust pizzas as well as traditional fare such as kudu fillet. The coffee bar/market/eatery caters for vegans and carnivores and pets are welcome. Enjoy the views over the adjacent daisy field and on weekends, enjoy live music or catch the latest sports game.

The Barn on 62

Nestled in Montagu on the legendary Route 62, the Barn on 62 is an ideal stop-off for a delicious cuppa and a light meal. Here, you can indulge in uniquely blended African coffee, sourced from Terbodore, paired with a full farmhouse breakfast and a generous slice of carrot cake. Alternatively, skip brekkie entirely and treat yourself to a juicy burger topped with freshly-made basil pesto, crispy lettuce, and tomato.

The Montagu Village Market

The perfect way to spend a Saturday morning and an opportunity to mingle with the locals. You’ll find a varied collection of scrumptious homemade delicacies such as pork pies, koeksisters, milk tart, freshly baked bread and a variety of local produce like eggs olives and jams to mention only a few. Sit down and enjoy a delicious breakfast feast or sweet pancakes and a cup of fresh coffee or fruit juice. There is so much to see and do at the market. Browse through the large variety of stalls packed with second-hand books, handmade crafts – like wirework and beadwork – and plenty of vintage bric-a-brac to brighten up your home.

Where to stay

Avalon Springs

For epic mountain views and all the creature comforts, check in at Avalon Springs, located just 2.6 kilometres outside of Montagu. Choose from a variety of options to suit your needs and budget, including hotel rooms, mountain chalets, and self-catering apartments. The mountain chalets are a particular favourite as they boast sweeping views of the valley, a private veranda with built-in braai and a private outdoor spa bath.

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Stonehill River Lodge

On the other side of the Langeberg Mountains, bordering the Klein Karoo, lies Stonehill River Lodge located outside Swellendam on the banks of the Breede River. Swellendam connects the Overberg region with the Garden Route and is situated approximately halfway between Cape Town and George, making it a perfect location from which to explore the surrounding areas. Guests will spend their days in spacious villas with gorgeous views of the river, nearby mountains and the giant aloes and Milkwood trees that encircle the property. The adventurous will undoubtedly enjoy fishing on the banks of the Breede River, taking leisurely strolls along the walking trails, and trying their hand at river rafting.

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