Five Stops To Make Along Route 62

Extending all the way from Ashton to Oudtshoorn, the Western Cape’s Route 62 is one of South Africa’s most famous country roads. As it winds its way through winelands, the Langeberg Mountains, and the Klein Karoo, this iconic route takes you to some of the country’s favourite small towns, including Montagu, Barrydale, and Calitzdorp. There’s plenty to do along the way, whether you’re interested in classy wine tastings or a little bit of history and culture – not to mention the incredible natural beauty all around it.

There are plenty of places that you can stop off and explore as you meander through the countryside. We’ve listed five epic stops along Route 62 that you should check out on your next road trip adventure. Read on to learn all about them!

Photo: Getty

Barrydale

Barrydale has quickly transformed into one of the Klein Karoo’s best tourist towns, largely thanks to the restaurants, art galleries, and curio shops that line Route 62 as it passes through the town. The Langeberg Mountains form the backdrop for the picturesque town, and popular attractions include the Barrydale Heritage Garden, Magpie Art Collective, and Diesel & Crème: a retro diner that’s famous for its decadent milkshakes and quirky antique collection.

You can also take a detour down Tradouw Pass, a spectacular mountain pass that cuts through the mountains towards Suurbraak and Swellendam. The name means “woman’s path” in the Khoi language and explorers have discovered plenty of ancient rock art in the pass’ many caves and crags. If you’re looking for a place to spend the night in Barrydale, check out the Warmwaterberg Spa and its natural hot springs and hiking trails.

Photo: Barrydale Tourism

Ronnie’s Sex Shop

Despite its raunchy name, Ronnie’s Sex Shop isn’t R-rated. Instead, it’s one of the most popular rest stops on Route 62, especially among bikers and other road trippers. It got its name in the 1970s when Ronnie, the owner of what was then a farm stall, left the shop in the care of some friends. When he returned, he discovered that they had painted “Ronnie’s Sex Shop” on the wall, the same sign that you can see from Route 62 to this day.

As the story goes, Ronnie wasn’t too happy, but after his friend suggested he open a roadside pub, the Sex Shop was officially born. Today, travellers can enjoy coffee, milkshakes, and burgers at the Road Kill Café – or simply kick back and enjoy the unique decor at the bar. The walls are covered in graffiti, including some hot and heavy stories, while some travellers have left underwear, caps, and t-shirts hanging above the bar to build on Ronnie’s epic story.

Photo: Getty

Calitzdorp

Welcome to the “Port Wine Capital of South Africa” in the heart of the Little Karoo. This small town, nestled between the Swartberg and Rooiberg mountains, is perhaps most famous for its vineyards and rich agricultural heritage. With a semi-arid climate and fertile soil, the area is ideal for growing grapes, particularly those used in the production of fortified wines like port. Several renowned wine estates, such as Boplaas and De Krans, offer tastings and tours, too.

Beyond its viticulture, Calitzdorp boasts a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The town’s architecture reflects its deep-rooted heritage, with charming Cape Dutch and Victorian-style buildings lining the streets. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Calitzdorp Museum, housed in a former church, which offers a glimpse into the area’s past, including its ostrich farming and agricultural legacy.

Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy in the surrounding landscape (see the next section for more). Calitzdorp Hot Springs provides a relaxing retreat, where visitors can soak in the natural mineral-rich waters while taking in the panoramic views of the Karoo.

Photo: Getty

Gamkaberg Nature Reserve

Gamkaberg Nature Reserve lies outside of Calitzdorp, protecting a large area of pristine Little Karoo biodiversity. The reserve is named after the Gamkaberg, which means “lion’s hill” in Khoi, a testament to the rich history and cultural significance of the area. The reserve is renowned for its conservation efforts, particularly in protecting the endangered Cape mountain zebra, which thrives in this mountainous terrain.

The landscape is characterised by towering sandstone cliffs, deep ravines, and expansive fynbos, creating a habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. The flora is particularly rich, with succulents, proteas, and other endemic species flourishing in the harsh semi-arid environment. The reserve is also home to various wildlife, including eland, klipspringer, and numerous bird species, making it a fantastic destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Visitors to Gamkaberg can explore its beauty through a network of hiking trails that range from easy walks to more challenging routes, all offering spectacular views of the surrounding Karoo landscape. You can also tackle the 4×4 trail, especially if you want to find the mountain zebras. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a break and a deeper connection with nature, the eco-friendly accommodation options in the reserve include rustic huts and safari tents. Some of the camps even have cold eco pools!

Photo: Getty

Cango Caves

The Cango Caves, located near Oudtshoorn, are one of South Africa’s most remarkable natural wonders. These limestone caverns feature impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and vast chambers that have formed over millions of years by the slow process of water erosion. They’ve been a popular attraction since they were first discovered by Europeans in the late 18th century, although evidence suggests they were used as shelter by early humans as far back as the Middle Stone Age.

Visitors can choose from two tours: the Heritage Tour and the Adventure Tour. The Heritage Tour is a guided walk through the more accessible parts of the caves, where visitors can marvel at awe-inspiring formations like the towering “Van Zyl’s Hall” and the intricately detailed “Organ Pipes.” This tour is suitable for all ages and offers a fascinating insight into the geology and history of the cave system. For the more adventurous, the aptly named Adventure Tour takes visitors deeper into the caves, navigating narrow passages and tight crawlspaces, such as the “Devil’s Chimney” and “Letterbox.”

Besides their breathtaking beauty, the Cango Caves are significant for their archaeological importance. Excavations have uncovered ancient artefacts, providing insight into the early human inhabitants of the region. Today, the caves are a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to experience their natural splendour and historical significance.

Photo: Getty

By now, you can probably understand why Route 62 is one of the most epic road trip routes in South Africa, if not the world. You could try to see it all in a single day or spend a week hopping from town to town. Either way, it’s one of the best ways to experience the Overberg and the Little Karoo in the same trip. In terms of driving, you’ll be able to see plenty in a hatchback, sedan, or SUV from Drive South Africa. If you want to leave the tarred road, check out our 4×4 vehicle options.