Secret Montagu | A nostalgic gateway to the Little Karoo

02 Jan 2024 Secret Getaway 2 min read

Dream Cars vintage tours along Route 62. Photo: Dream Cars

A special gift awaits travellers willing to take a road trip along Route 62's dusty roads toward what seems like small towns' lost in the race of urbanisation.

Intriguing nostalgia awaits you. As if you're stepping through a looking glass into the best-kept secret of a bygone era.

Montagu is a perfect example. This beautiful, small Western Cape town famous for its Hot Springs has much more to offer those seeking adventure and rejuvenation.

Secret Getaway's Insider Secret series is all about tapping into local places we love. It's the kind of connection our community (Click here to join, it's free) thrives on.

Sure, there are those destinations we're all familiar with that make the 'Best of' lists time after time. But in this series, we dig a little deeper to go beyond the typical touristy attractions to uncover the lesser-known and off-the-beaten-track spots that will make your in-destination experiences a bit more special.

Situated on Route 62, approximately 2-hours drive from Cape Town, Montagu is the ideal Little Karoo gateway.

EXPLORE: Latest Secret Getaway Little Karoo Country Getaways

With its historic, white-washed buildings, Montagu invites you to linger. Enjoy a coffee at one of the quaint town spots or browse its Saturday market stalls with its old-fashioned church-bazaar vibe.

Let these Insider Secret suggestions guide your next Country Stay itinerary.

Experience:

Besting_Motorbike_toursMontagu Country Hotel's American Dream Cars. Take a tour of the Robertson Wineries in absolute style. These chauffeur-driven vintage cars mean you don't have to drink or drive.

You even get to choose your own wheels, one of three classics - the 1956 Cadillac Sedan De Ville, the 1955 Mercury Monterey and the 1956 De Soto Fire flight Sportsman.

Or visit Ronnie's Sex Shop on a Harley Davidson. This pub in the 'Middle of Nowhere' has quite a reputation. This journey is every bit as fun as the destination.

READ: Short Drives that Spark Joy

Taste:

MontQIf you love the freshness of deli goods, you'll love MonTQ. You are in for a treat with their olives, olive oils, infused oils, spices, Jams and fresh coffee, Sweet and Savoury Pancakes and cakes.

MonTQ, the 3rd oldest building (built in 1860) in the centre of Montagu, offers a snapshot into this town's rich heritage.

Pop into their coffee shop and dry deli to soak it all in.

Do:

Kgomanskloof_besttingLook forward to a whole new world of magic and sensual pleasure as you pop through the hole in the wall at Kogmanskloof with its amazing geological folds, faults and a British fort from 1899

Stay:

Glen_Eden_GlampingGlen Eden Farm is a small holding of 50 hectares, just outside charming Montagu. Its accommodation offering includes unique glamping options, each with a hand-made gypsy wagon, tepee tent, and a wood-fired hot tub. The sites also have a private bathroom, small kitchen, braai and fire pit. They also have a touch farm, including alpacas, goats, pigs, rabbits, turkeys, chickens, geese and ducks. Ask to feed the animals during your stay.

Insider Tip:

Cape_dried_fruit_toursCape Dried Fruit Packers offer a one-of-a-kind tour, ideal for families and small groups. Take the Tractor Trip to La Providence Dried Fruit Farm available for Free from 11AM to 12PM on Saturdays (First-come, first-served).

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