Travel destinations: South Africa – Part 5

The most asked question by anyone interested in visiting South Africa is; ‘Is it safe?’ The answer is of course it depends where you are going. And one of the safest and most beautiful places is Montagu, in the Klein Karoo. Only two and a half hours drive from Cape Town, Montagu is nestled in a quiet valley surrounded by mountains. It is a fruit and grape growing area, offering a wide choice of wineries to visit, great rock climbing and a hot springs spa. I came to Montagu from Canada to visit a relative and here I am still. The people are friendly and while there is plenty to do, it remains a small dorp (village).

For anyone interested in visiting there is a very helpful local information centre called the Info Centre. Visitors are invited to come and participate in community programs which range from a Day Care Centre, a garden project called, Huis Tuintjies (house gardens), a rape and alcohol couseling program, just to name a few. It offers a wonderful opportunity to get involved in the local community.

The hot springs is located at the Avalon Hot Springs Resort and here locals and visitors together enjoy bounty of the earth. The Resort has a 24hour cafe, two great restaurants and excellent accommodation. Montagu has a large selection of accommodation facilites catering to all pocket books. There are two backpackers, bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, farm accommodations and camping. About 30 km out of town in the area known as the Koo, there is a fabulous farm that takes guests on a tractor ride up the mountain, from where you can see for miles and miles. It is a fun ride culminating in a braai (barbeque) and the consumption of Muskadel. Muskadel is a rich local wine drink that is unique to the area, very similar to port. It is delicious!

Barrydale, which is about an hour drive away offers an eclectic selection of small shops, fine dining and the drive there is stunning. Another town to visit from Montagu, is Swellendam, about a 45 minute drive. Swellendam is known for its many restaurants, and local residents often go there for a night out. It is also home to Wildebraam Liquors which conjures up divine liquors from all kinds of unusual sources. They make a sage liquor which is definitely worth tryng.

One can also drive to Hermanus to see the whales that visit the area mid September to early November. It is only a one and a half hour drive and again the beauty of the scenery is breathtaking.

All roads are paved and light on traffic making driving anywhere a pleasure. All in all this part of the Western Cape is worth a visit.