Founded in 1851 on the farm, Uitvlucht, and named after then-Colonial Secretary of the Cape, John Montagu, Montagu is a small dorpie in the Western Cape where I grew up. For nearly 15 years, my daily life involved knowing this town and its surrounds, streets and small shops in tedious detail.
As a child, it was a fun place to live. As a teenager and adolescent, it was stifling. But now, as a wiser adult and a mother myself, I can see why people want to raise their children here.
It’s a town where the world functions at a slower pace (lunchtime used to mean 12-2pm and even the businesses closed during that period), where the air is clean and crisp, where everyone knows everyone’s business (Lady Whistledown, eat your heart out) and where the town’s weather and its natural surroundings – mountains, rivers and barren fynbos-strewn hills – still call the shots.
After all, it’s a place that floods almost annually. (When I was a child, it was the only time we made the news.)
Montagu Over the Years: Same Old But Different
Montagu is situated in the Klein Karoo. Conveniently, famously even, it’s found along the Route 62, some two to three hours from the Mother City. This makes it the ideal travel destination for exploring the Western Cape from.
What’s more, the town is a veritable haven for families with kids, couples, animal lovers, nature enthusiasts, rock climbers, MTB riders, hikers and tourists.
Now, though, if you visit Montagu, it’s a place where luxury eco cabins edge pristine natural backdrops. There are more shops, more stops and more local attractions as the town’s tourism seemingly booms.
Yet, somehow, Montagu still feels the same. It’s comforting and disconcerting to see how it’s simultaneously the same and totally different.
Thankfully, my knowledge of Montagu’s favourite spots and the popular haunts remains sound.
And, with the Absa Cape Epic approaching this small town, it’s time I divulge my secrets.
So, in this post, I share some of my favourite attractions in marvellous Montagu.
Why Marvel at Cogmanskloof/Kogmanskloof Pass
When you drive to Montagu from Cape Town, there are only a few ways to enter the town. From Barrydale, via the Koo-Keisie valleys and via Cogmanskloof/Kogmanskloof Pass.
The latter is one of the most scenic, breathtaking drives of your life. You drive past towering rock formations and twisting river bends, as you marvel at the Cape fold mountains in their full glory.
One of the highlights of this short drive that connects Ashton to Montagu, is the iconic mountain pass, Cogmanskloof. The pass was painstakingly constructed by legendary engineer, Thomas Bain, between 1873 – 1877.
It glides along the magnificent Kingna River. Unfortunately, the river often bursts its banks and causes devastating winter flooding, cutting Montagu off from civilisation for a time. (Montagu is in a bowl; just visit and you’ll understand what I mean.)
This poort or gorge road runs through the mountains in spectacular fashion. It even features an iconic hole-in-the-mountain tunnel, topped by a famous Old English Fort. This fort was first erected in 1899 and, a hundred years later in 1999, it was declared a national monument.
If you can, snap a photo before you pass through the tunnel. Or park at a rest site and enjoy a quick amble up to the fort. It’s worth your while.
Just watch out for troops of baboons that often patrol this pass!
Why Stroll About Montagu’s Streets
Montagu is known for its warm hospitality and friendliness. Something a peaceful stroll about town easily reveals to travellers and locals alike.
Walks around Montagu are remarkably safe compared to in the Big Cities. That’s not to say don’t be street savvy and keep your wits about you. It’s more like be prepared to have strangers smile warmly and nod in greeting at you. And yes, that’s totally normal here.
One of the best streets to explore is Long Street. It is lined with protectively preserved Cape Dutch architecture, cosy boutique shops, charming cafes and scenic sights.
Sights include Montagu’s own Bloupunt mountain and the encircling Langeberg mountains, elaborate gardens, school crossings, leiwater canals and more.
Why Dine and Stay at The Barn on 62
One of the places I personally love in today’s Montagu 2.0 is The Barn on 62. This charming destination offers both a lovely eatery and stunning self-catering accommodation.
Set against the imposing backdrop of the Langeberg mountains and situated along Montagu’s famous main street, Long Street, The Barn on 62 blends together rustic farm charm and luxury comforts.
Here, you can enjoy slow mornings, farm walks, beautiful sunsets and even stargazing thanks to clear, vast Klein Karoo skies above.
If you need more convincing, just read my review here.
Website for more info or bookings: www.thebarnon62.co.za
Contact number: +27 (073) 893 2767
Why Visit the Montagu Museum Complex
Montagu is famous for its rich history and much of its preserved heritage dates back to the 19th century.
One of the best ways to discover this history is by visiting Montagu’s Museum Complex. The complex is made up of three key historic buildings. Namely, Joubert House, the Old Mission Church and the KWV Building Complex.
Found along Long Street, these buildings are each easy to access and well worth a quick tour if you have the time!
Website for more info or bookings: www.montagumuseum.co.za
Contact number: +27 (023) 614 1950
Joubert House and Its Medicinal Garden
Joubert House, first built in 1853, is considered the oldest Montagu dwelling and it portrays the traditional way of life from the 1850s era.
One particular focal point is a side room that has toys, including a number of artful, yet rather creepy handmade porcelain dolls, from the olden days.
Outside, the garden behind Joubert House is believed to contain some 120 plants, many of which double as herbal remedies.
The museum is dedicated to researching and recording the history of medicinal plants in the Montagu region. These have been passed down by the Khoikhoi, San peoples and European settler farmers.
Old Mission Church
The Old Mission Church, meanwhile, contains a rich collection of pulpit Bibles, church artefacts and dainty old wedding dresses.
Certain exhibits here change often but they always serve a singular purpose: to showcase the museum’s diverse collection.
KWV Buildings
Lastly, a little further on, you can find the KWV Buildings, located on the corner of Long- and Kohler Street.
These buildings are great examples of this rural, historic town’s industrial architecture.
Apparently some of the sections offer a permanent collection of agricultural vehicles and implements in an enclosed courtyard behind the complex.
When we visited in 2025, though, I was shocked to see how the KWV Building had been turned into a art gallery. Nearby cafes, shops and an Aladdin’s cave-esque bookstore await too.
Why Stop for Pastries at The Pastry Place
One of the best places to eat in Montagu is The Pastry Place. At this artisanal bakery, you can sample a range of unique pastries, pies and more.
All baked goods are handmade and delicious. It’s hard choosing from the menu, as everything looks and sounds good!
The owners are very welcoming too; it’s a lovely spot. So, sit in the courtyard and savour the beauty of the KWV Building from here.
Afterwards, admire the other local boutique stores or browse the nearby art gallery.
Why Grab a Bite at Munch.
Also located along historic Long Street, this cosy eatery serves a range of delicious eats, from vegan and vegetarian food to sweet treats, fresh coffee and drinks.
Munch is worth a stop. If you don’t have time to linger, that’s fine. But the setting is lovely and relaxed, with great views of the main road.
Why Visit The Rambling Rose
As one of Montagu’s time-honoured café establishments, no visit to the town or drive through it is entirely complete without a stop at The Rambling Rose.
Also found along Long Street, this charming Montagu café is known for its generous breakfasts and light meals, excellent coffee and delicious pastries.
The cafe’s shelves are stocked full with interesting goodies and local treats too. It’s hard to leave without buying a take-home gift or keepsake.
Website for more info or bookings: www.facebook.com/ramblingrosemontagu
Contact number: +27 (083) 401 4503
Why Stop at Die Kloof Padstal
Die Kloof Padstal has been around since Montagu was formed or so it feels.
I jest but it really is one of the town’s longest standing eateries. Personally, it’s one of my favourites to boot.
This classic Route 62 café is situated at the entrance to Montagu (if you are coming from Ashton side).
It’s tucked in the corner near the kloof, making it incredibly scenic.
Die Kloof Padstal is the perfect pit stop for a tasty, hearty sit-down meal. There is plenty space to play and stretch your legs in its pretty grounds. Montagu is very family orientated but this eatery is especially child-friendly.
Alternatively, use it as a spot simply for refuelling. Because it has a worthy assortment of dried fruit, baked goods, preserves and gifts to enjoy.
Website for more info or bookings: www.facebook.com/DieKloofPadstal
Contact number: +27 (083) 650 0968
Why Visit Leidam
Leidam is one of Montagu’s most photographed heritage landmarks. In fact, it is a natural bird phenomenon in a relatively urban setting.
Located near Montagu West, this historic irrigation dam, which is framed by mountains and whitewashed buildings, has a beautiful bird hide too.
It’s a lovely place to stop for a moment’s respite or to enjoy some bird watching or photography at.
It is home to some 18 bird species, including Sacred Ibis, Cape weavers, egrets and herons to name just a few.
Why Pop into the Montagu Public Library
Housed in a historic building, Montagu’s town library truly reflects the town’s strong sense of community and heritage. It is a small but charming cultural stop.
I took out my first library card here at age 7 and used it consistently over the years until I was 19. So this little gem of a public library is one of my truest and oldest Montagu friends.
Growing up, it was my gateway to distant lands; I devoured everything from Tolkien’s many novels to Animal Farm here.
Website for more info: www.langeberg.gov.za
Contact number: +27 (023) 614 8010
Why Shop Montagu’s Dried Fruit and Nuts
Montagu is famous for two things: its muscadel (sweet dessert wine) and its dried fruit. Both of which, I am a big fan of!
As far I as know, the town still has three different dried fruit factory shop options. Namely, Capedry (102 Bath Street, Bergsig), Locarno (13 Du Toit Street) and Montagu Dried Fruit and Nuts (situated within at Die Kloof Padstal).
I am sure many of you’ll have heard of the latter, as it is one of South Africa’s top dried fruit, nut and seed producers.
Visit the factory shops/farm stalls to stock up on some affordable padkos for your drive home!
Why Wander through the Montagu Nature Garden
The Montagu Nature Garden is one of my favourite places in Montagu. Situated in Montagu South, near the town’s hospital, this garden is made up of beautiful indigenous plants, peaceful walking paths, rugged, fynbos-coated hills and more.
It’s the perfect place for families and nature lovers to explore. It’s located at the western entrance to the Klein Karoo and is made up of three flora regions of the Western Cape: succulent karoo, renosterveld and fynbos.
The garden was founded in 1954, in Montagu’s centenary year.
Today, it’s maintained by a volunteer organisation. Their mission remains simple: to develop an indigenous wildflower reserve that represents the Klein Karoo and surrounds.
The garden is great to explore in general but I best love the hiking trail. The 1.7 kilometre-long walking trail leads to the Bessiekop summit and affords you a wonderfully panoramic vista of the town and mountains.
On Tuesdays from April to October, you can apparently join a tea garden gathering for tea and cakes.
For more information on this or to enquire about hosting an intimate event at the garden, please contact the Nature Garden’s team directly.
Do bring a sunhat and some good SPF sunscreen though because Montagu can be boiling hot! Especially from October to March, although the heat certainly peaks in the summer months. (It’s been so hot in town before that the tarred road has melted…)
Note: The garden is technically free to visit. However, small donations are encouraged and welcomed, as they go towards the garden’s maintenance.
Website for more info or bookings: www.montagu.org.za
Contact number: +27 (083) 310 7170
Why You Might Want to Take a Lovers’ Walk
Lovers’ Walk, otherwise called Mayor’s Walk, is a short, 500-metre-long walk along the banks of the beautiful Keisie river.
It runs below Kanonkop through to Joubert Street and starts at the upper end of Barry Street. The walk is idyllic and tranquil.
It’s best enjoyed in early morning or near sunset when the mountains glow golden and the shade is at its protective best.
Growing up, we’d often enjoy this walk as kids or/and school groups. It’s one of my fondest memories of my town.
Note: This shaded, riverside path is free to enjoy, unless it’s done as part of the Badskloof Trail. Please enquire directly with Montagu Tourism for more info.
Why MTB, Hike or Rock Climb in Montagu
Montagu is widely loved and recognised for its outdoor activities. Everything from incredible mountain climbing (particularly at local Legloand, which is located within the Cogmanskloof Pass), hiking and epic MTB (see what I did there, Cape Epic?) trails.
Many of its trails and nature-based activities are free to enjoy, though some may incur an entry fee or require a permit.
I have done several short hikes around Montagu over the years and have great memories from most of them.
There’s the hike up Bloupunt (it’s 15.6km long; I did half of this trail as a child and it’s beautiful. You even see some small waterfalls on the way up.); as well as the popular Cogmanskloof– and Badskloof-hiking trails, to name a few.
The Badskloof one is a pretty scenic trail, one I’ve relished over the years. It is approximately 2.2 km long and connects the town’s famous hot springs with Eyssenhuis/Ou Meul over at Joubertpark. This hike has a small entry fee now, payable at either the trail’s start or end.
As for MTB trails, the town has some excellent options. These days, a local MTB body, Montagu Trails, seemingly governs and maintains the trails.
For rock climbing, hiking or MTB trails and guides, please reach out to Montagu Tourism or do your own external research.
Whatever you do, please be aware of snakes, dangerous sun and rapidly changing weather. (With its semi-arid climate, Montagu can go from boiling hot in the morning to freezing cold by early afternoon.)
Please also respect our town’s natural flora and fauna and clean up after yourselves.
Why Browse the Village Market (or Park Mark)
The Village Market, informally known as the ‘Park Mark’ to long-time friends, takes place every Saturday at Euvrard Path, opposite Montagu’s information building. For sightseeing guests, it’s next to the town’s incredible NG Kerk.
This market brings people from far and wide, eager to savour some ‘local is lekker‘ produce, gifts, homeware and fresh eats.
When I was in school, we used to have a pancake stall at the market. And so I spent many a fond Saturday mornings rolling pancakes in lemon juice or dusting them with cinnamon sugar. It remains one of my better childhood memories.
I love the town’s weekly market, which normally starts at 8am and ends around 12:30 pm. (Or earlier, for the stalls who sell out.)
If you’re in town on a Saturday morning, check out this cheery Western Cape market and support local. 🙂
Where Next to Explore in Marvellous Montagu?
This list will constantly grow and evolve with time, just as Montagu has.
But do you have any Montagu places you can personally recommend I add to it?
Let me know in the Comments below or pop me an email! 🙂
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