Montagu, Western Cape

 

Driving from Cape Town, the stunningly craggy Cogmanskloof and its tapestry of Cape Fold Mountains lead to the charming town of Montagu, beginning of Route 62 – also famous as the ‘longest wine route in the world’.

What gives Montagu its class and character are the old Cape Dutch and Georgian-style houses, a background of looming mountains, its natural hot springs and a sense of heritage preserved.

Renowned food writer and columnist Madelein Roux now lives in Montagu, and says:

“For the city dweller, Montagu is a haven, the most beautiful town in the whole Western Cape. For people like me, it’s the safest place I’ve ever lived in. Many of our doors do not even have keys. We forget to lock our cars at night. Gates without locks, windows without burglar bars.”

Montagu is also a busy town, but in the coolest way. Adventure sport lovers come for the Montagu Rock Rally and the Mountain Mania events early in the year. There’s a book festival celebrating the Little Karoo in July and a youth arts festival happens in August. In September the town stages a Family Heritage Festival where you can buy all sorts of locally produced items – and then October sees the Montagu Rose Show.

On Saturday mornings, you can meander around the Village Market in Bath Street and spend the day gently feasting away.

One of the most popular outdoor activities around here is a walk through Cogmans Kloof and a visit to the local hot springs. And don’t forget, you’re in Deep Wine Country. One sip of the famous Montagu Muscadel, and you will always return to the delights of Route 62.

  Find our new e-Book, 101 Karoo Towns HERE.