Montagu is approximately 2 hours drive from Cape Town on Route 62. This peaceful town is steeped in history and is famous for its awe inspiring rock formations, orchards, vineyards, local herbs and healing hot mineral springs.
Approaching Montagu from the Breede River one travels alongside the old Bain's road through the spectacular Cogmans Kloof eventually negotiating the Hole in the Rock, known locally as the Gateway to the Klein Karoo.
Montagu was laid out on the farm Uitvlugt In 1841 and named after John Montagu the Colonial Secretary of the Cape. However, it wasn't until Thomas Bain built the Cogmans Kloof pass and the tunnel during the 1870's that the area really began to develop.
Visitors will to the town discover the Wildflower Nature garden, bird sanctuaries, a nature reserve, museums, art galleries, historic homes, lovely hiking trails, 4X4 and mountain bike trails and ideal rock climbing opportunities.
Enjoy the two museums, and walk around the town to view the many National Monuments. Or stroll in Joubert Park, which is the entrance to the Nature Reserve and starting point for most of the walks and trails.
The view from Kanonkop Hill offers an awe inspiring scenery. The Nature Garden is a must for lovers of indigenous plants and bird life.
Informative Guide Maps for the trails, Historic Houses, Gardens, Artists and Kanonkop Hill are available from the Tourist Bureau.
Accommodation is available in first class hotels, lodges, guest houses and guest farms.
Activities
* Montagu Nature Garden - reputed to provide a home to Southern Africa's largest variety of Mesembryanthenums.
* Montagu museum - the Mission Church with neo-gothic elements was declared a National Monument and houses the museum which portrays the ways of life of Montagu's local residents. The archives house documents, photographs and Africana relating to the history of Montagu.
Art treasures in the museum include twelve works in oil and other mediums by Francois Krige. A visit to the Francois Krige gallery, which is next door, can be pre-arranged through Museum staff.
* Joubert House and Herb Garden
Joubert House provides insight on how life was conducted in the latter part of the nineteenth century. The house also provides a sanctuary for a unique collection of handmade dolls. Another very special feature is the sale of herbal remedies and pot pourri oils - grown from a unique herb garden at the rear of the house.
* Art
The town and surrounding area has several art galleries featuring local artists, potteries, crafters such as Montagu Teddy Bears, hand crafted furniture plus outlets selling craft work.
* Wines
Historically the Montagu area was mainly known for its fine Muscadel fortified wines, but today the choice has expanded to include Chardonnay, Colombards, Merlot and other modern cultivars.
Wine Cellars include Bloupunt, Uitvlucht, Rietrivier, Montagu Co-op, Drie Berge and Klein Karoo Winery.
* Tractor Trips
Protea Farm Tractor Trail Trips
Conducted tours through the local farms and mountain routes can be bookinged through Montagu Tourist Bureau Offices.
* Rock Climbing
Montagu has been described as a rock climbers paradise. The best climbing conditions are found between May and September.
