See & do in Montagu
Should you wish to explore further afield than the reserve, you will be rewarded with a rich offering in a small radius and plenty to discover in the surrounding towns of Montagu, Barrydale, Swellendam and Bonnievale. From wine tasting, scenic tractor rides, cheese farms and hot springs to weekend markets, antique shops, rock climbing and hiking there is something for all tastes.
Montagu
Situated in the Cape Winelands and marking the official start of the scenic Route 62, Montagu is well worth a visit. It is steeped in history also, with recorded history dating back to the early 1800s and signs of early human settlements in local caves dating back thousands of years. The town boasts 24 restored national monuments, including some gorgeous art deco architecture and an English fort dating back to 1899 during the height of the Anglo Boer War.
Olijvenhof olive estate
(15min drive): Beautiful olive orchards where you can have a light picnic or cheese and olive platter. Take some of the yummy tapenade and olive oil home with you.
Contact: +2776 979 9135 , http://www.sanbasa.com
Hot springs
(30 – 45mins drive): The Little Karoo has a number of natural hot springs, with the small resort of Avalon Springs being one of the most well-known. Visitors can enjoy several pools ranging in temperature, the hottest one pushing the mercury to 43 degrees. https://www.avalonsprings.co.za
tractor trips
(60 mins drive): An iconic attraction in the area, the tractor trips on Protea Farm sees passengers travel to the summit of Arangieskop (1,500m above sea level) in a tractor-drawn carriage. Expect jaw-dropping views at the top, followed by yummy traditional potjiekos stew upon your return. http://www.proteafarm.co.za
Rock climbing
(30 – 45mins drive): Montagu is one of South Africa's most popular rock climbing destinations thanks to the number and variety of climbing routes, ranging from beginner to expert. Badkloof, Cogmanskloof and Boschkloof are some of the most renowned crags, each with multiple sport and trad routes. http://www.climbing.co.za/wiki/Montagu
Montagu village Market
(30min drive): Taking place every Saturday morning from 09:00 to 12:00, the Village Market is Montagu's showcase of organic meat and vegetables, home-baked goods, arts and crafts and is well worth a visit. It takes place in Euvrard Park in Bath Street, next to the imposing NG Kerk.
hiking trails
(30 - 45 minutes): Montagu is blessed with a number of strikingly beautiful hiking trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging efforts. The most famous is Bloupunt, a 15,6km long trail that climbs 1,000m to the summit of Bloupunt with its jaw-dropping views of the Klein Karoo valley - taking in three small waterfalls along the way. Visit montagu.org.za for a downloadable PDF map.
22 Church
This lovely eatery is our favourite option in town, and renowned for their farm-to-table dining experience, homemade food and warm service. A good selection of meat and veggie meals should keep everybody happy, which is complemented by the extensive wine list. http://www.22churchstreet.co.za/
Visit montagu by bike
Flying Feet offers guided town tours which include historical and art tours. Flying Feet can also customize tours or rent a bike and explore Montagu on your own. For more information, visit Flying Feet
The BlueVine district
(25min drive): Experience our city-escape destination built around boutique award-winning wine, barista coffee-craft and local culinary creativity with a village soul. BluVines restaurant in Montagu indulges the tastebuds and gives back to the community.
In a mountain-surrounded setting at the heart of the world’s longest wine route, wine, food and coffee at BluVines in Montagu are connected through a singular love of great produce and delicious flavours.
https://bluvines.co.za