Vredenshoogte Farm
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The peaceful town of Montagu - named after John Montagu - the Colonial Secretary of the Cape - is one of the most picturesque towns is the Western Cape.
The town in steeped in History and is famous for its awe-inspiring rock formation, orchards, vineyards, architecture, local herbs and hot mineral springs. More recently it has become famous as the gateway to the Little Karoo and also the scenic heart of Route 62.
Whether you want adrenalin flowing, a quite relaxing weekend, or anything in-between, the Keisie, Montagu and the surrounding areas have something for you.
Here is a list of nearby attractions but covers only a small fraction of the total:
Route 62
Cape Route 62 (also know as the Mountain Route) is the tourist route in the Western Cape that meanders between Cape Town and Oudtshoorn, the Garden Route and Port Elizabeth, offering a shorter, scenic alternative to the N2 Highway. It's an area of magnificent landscapes and towering cliffs, crystal clear steams and an abundance of trees and indigenous flora.
Route 62 runs through Montagu and continues along towards Barrydale and beyond, offering what is believed to be the worlds longest wine route.
Climbing Montagu is a rock climbers paradise
with over 300 bolted routes at all grades and good climbing weather
most of the year. Guided climbs are available
(booking essential) as is local climbing information. Montagu is also
host to the Cogmans Rock Rally, with over 100 bolted route to pit
yourself against.
Montagu Tractor Rides
The trips are on a Wednesday and Saturday (large groups can be accommodated on other daty of the week except Sunday). The tractor pulling its load of sightseers will meander its way up the Landeberg Mountain to an altitude of 1500m above sea level.
On the way you will have a bird's eye view of the Koo Valley and once at the top, you can look over the Roberson Valley below.
Then a quick stop at the mountain hut for a surprise and you will be on your way down again.
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Avalon Springs
The nearby Avalon Springs Hotel is a luxury spa resort that boasts hot springs and a range of natural therapy for the tired body and soul. Day visitors are required to pay an entrance fee.
4 X 4 Routes For the 'motorheads' there are many
farms in the area that offer 4X4 routes including Protea
Farm (from the Tractor Rides) and Wagon
Wheels, both close by.
Visit Montagu Tourism for more detail and a comprehensive list
Photography
The area is absolutely phenomenal for all types of photography, with great morning and light and an abundance of subject matter. The nights are generally great too with low light pollution and ideal for those long exposure shots.
Ravenna Mountain Retreat offers photographic courses with a fully equipped studio on the farm. Courses include 'Introduction to Digital Photography' and 'Landscape and Macro Photography' as well as tailor made courses