Before the N2 linking the Southern and Eastern Cape was completed in 1959, Route 62 was the main highway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. Today it offers the tourist a shorter and more scenic alternative to the N2, taking in dozens of small, beautifully preserved towns and villages along the way. It traverses the dramatic open spaces of the Karoo and the succession of mountain ranges that divide the arid interior from the moist coastal regions.

It's an area of ever-changing scenery: magnificent landscapes and towering cliffs, crystal clear streams and an abundance of trees and indigenous flora. It is also the world’s longest wine route.

The R62 passes through the farming towns of Calitzdorp, Ladismith, Amalienstein, Zoar and the fruit growing and wine producing towns of Barrydale, Montagu, Ashton, Bonnievale, Robertson, McGregor, Worcester, Ceres, Wolseley, Tulbagh and Wellington. Sampling the many excellent wines, brandies, ports and olives produced in this region is one of many good reasons to include Route 62 in your itinerary.

Other attractions include game reserves, tribal art, cultural tours and museums. For the more active and adventurous there are hiking trails, mountain climbing, 4x4 routes, canoeing, horse riding and fishing.

Montagu is approximately 2 hours drive from Cape Town. 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.

Visitors will discover the Wildflower Nature garden, Bird sanctuaries, Nature Reserve, museums, art galleries, Historic Homes, lovely hiking trails, 4X4 and Mountain Bike trails and ideal rock climbing opportunities.

If you approach Montagu form the Breede River you travel through the spectacular Cogmans Kloof eventually reaching the Hole in the Rock known locally as the Gateway to the Klein Karoo. And don’t forget Oudtshoorn – the ostrich capital of the world! You can get close up and personal with these giant birds or watch a ‘professional’ ostrich race at one the many ostrich farms in and around town.

The magnificent Kango Caves and the white-knuckle drive through the incredible Swartberg Pass are recommended excursions from Oudtshoorn.