R62 Scenic Drive

The R62 Scenic Drive is a 309km road trip through the scenic beauty of the Republic of South Africa. Starting in the city of Worcester and ending in the city of Oudtshoorn, the journey passes through the towns of Montagu and Ladismith. The best time of year to drive this route is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is mild and the landscape is lush and green. Along the route you will experience stunning mountain passes, rolling vineyards and the unique semi-desert Karoo. With excellent road conditions and a manageable budget, this drive is suitable for all drivers. The journey takes two days to complete and along the way you can explore the historical towns of Montagu and Ladismith, both of which offer plenty of activities. From Montagu’s hot springs, to Ladismith’s fruit farms, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, if you’re looking for a scenic road trip that won’t break the bank, the R62 Scenic Drive is definitely worth considering.

Worcester, a bustling city in the Republic of South Africa, is the starting point of the R62 Scenic Drive. With its rolling vineyards, lush landscapes, and impressive mountain ranges, Worcester is a great place to start your journey. The city has no shortage of interesting sights to explore. The Afrikaanse Taalmuseum, dedicated to the study of the Afrikaans language, is a must-see. The Drostdy Museum, located in the historical Drostdy building, offers insight into the history of the city. The Worcester Nature Reserve and the nearby Hex River Mountain Reserve are perfect for those looking to take a break from the city and explore the great outdoors. For those looking to travel to Worcester by air, the closest international airport is Cape Town International Airport (IATA: CPT). Car rentals are available at the airport for those looking to start their R62 Scenic Drive journey. Worcester is an ideal starting point for a road trip adventure. With its great sights and easy access to the R62 Scenic Drive, it is the perfect place to kick off your journey.

Take a road trip through the beautiful Worcester, Republic of South Africa! Start your journey in Worcester and make your way to Robertson, a mere 73 km away. With the scenic road, it will take you less than an hour to get there. Robertson is a small town with a rich history, and the perfect place to take a break on your road trip. From Robertson, make your way to Montagu, another small town with plenty of attractions to explore. Along the way, you will be surrounded by stunning views of the countryside, making it the perfect way to spend your day. Once in Montagu, you can explore the local shops, restaurants and museums. Be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and vineyards as you drive through the town. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get your car and hit the road for an unforgettable road trip!

Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Montagu to Ladismith! This 138 km journey will take you less than two hours, and you will be rewarded with some of the most breathtaking views of the Western Cape. As you drive along the scenic road, you will pass through the Koo Valley and the Langeberg Mountains. Make sure to take a break to appreciate the magnificent landscapes and take some photos! Your first stop should be the Montagu Museum, a great place to learn more about the history of the town and the surrounding area. Afterwards, you can visit the Montagu Hot Springs, with its natural pools and hot waterfalls. If you’re looking for outdoor activities, you can go for a hike in the nearby mountains or take a scenic drive to the top of the Swartberg Pass. Your next stop will be Ladismith, where you can explore the town’s quaint streets and visit the Ladismith Museum. You can also take a tour of the nearby vineyards and sample some of the local wines. For a unique experience, take a drive up the Towerkop Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This is just one of the many stages of your road trip, so make sure to take your time and appreciate all the beauty that South Africa has to offer. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy the journey!

Are you ready for an amazing road trip? Starting in Ladismith, Republic of South Africa and ending in Oudtshoorn, this 98km journey is sure to be unforgettable. Along the way, you will pass through Calitzdorp, a small town with a rich cultural heritage. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads as you drive through this region. Be sure to take some time to explore the local attractions and sample some of the delicious cuisine in both Ladismith and Calitzdorp. Once you reach Oudtshoorn, you can explore the many attractions the town has to offer. Take a leisurely stroll through the Cango Caves, a series of ancient limestone caves, or visit the Safari Ostrich Farm and learn about the fascinating world of ostriches. You can also explore the many art galleries and shops in the town. The entire journey should take you less than an hour, so make sure to take the time to appreciate the beauty of the landscape. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

Oudtshoorn, part of the Republic of South Africa, is the perfect ending point for the R62 Scenic Drive. This unique road trip starts in Dullstroom and goes through the majestic Mpumalanga and Western Cape provinces, offering a stunning view of South African nature. In Oudtshoorn, visitors can explore the Cango Caves, the largest show cave system in Africa, and the Cango Wildlife Ranch, where they can get up close and personal with some of the world’s most exotic animals. The town also has a number of cultural and historical sites, including the Safari Ostrich Show Farm, the Old Town Hall and the Swartberg Pass. If you are looking for some outdoor activities, you can take a drive to the Swartberg Mountains and explore their spectacular views, or take a hike to the Waterkloof Dam. For the more adventurous, there is an off-road 4x4 track that winds through the mountains. To get to Oudtshoorn, the closest international airport is George Airport (GRJ) located approximately 67 kilometers away. And for those who prefer a car journey, the R62 Scenic Drive is a great way to get there. So, if you're looking for a unique road trip experience, the R62 Scenic Drive through Oudtshoorn is a must-do.

Before you set off

Embark on a journey through the heart of South Africa with the R62 Scenic Drive, a mesmerizing 309-kilometer stretch that weaves from Worcester to Oudtshoorn. As you travel, be captivated by the diverse landscapes, from the towering mountain ranges and lush vineyards to the stark beauty of the Karoo's semi-desert expanse. This route, often referred to as the world's longest wine route, is not only a visual feast but also a cultural tapestry reflecting the rich heritage of the region.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Worcester: Begin your adventure in a town nestled amid the wine-growing valleys, where you can visit the KWV Brandy Cellar, the largest of its kind in the world.
• Montagu: Step back in time with the town's well-preserved Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture, unwind in the natural hot springs, and explore the surrounding nature reserves.
• Barrydale: A quaint village where the creative spirit thrives, offering art galleries, local craft, and the famous Route 62 Tractor Tour.
• Ladismith: A town set against a dramatic mountain backdrop, offering a taste of local culture through its fruit farming heritage and Edwardian-style buildings.
• Calitzdorp: Known as the Port Wine Capital of South Africa, where you can indulge in tastings at award-winning wineries.
• Oudtshoorn: Complete your journey in the ostrich capital of the world, where you can tour ostrich farms and delve into the prehistoric wonder of the Cango Caves, a system of limestone caverns adorned with vast halls and towering formations.

Best Time to Go:

To fully enjoy the R62's offerings, plan your Trip between late spring and early autumn. During this period, you'll find pleasant temperatures, vibrant wildflowers, and a tapestry of greenery that makes the landscapes come alive.

Potential Risks:

The route is well-maintained, but it's wise to remain vigilant for the occasional wildlife crossing and to check weather forecasts for any sudden changes, especially when navigating mountain passes.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The R62 rivals the iconic Route 66 in the U.S. with its charm and allure, providing a more intimate glimpse into South African life.
• The journey can be leisurely completed in two days, but many opt to take longer to immerse themselves in the local culture and activities.
• Along the way, you'll encounter a variety of unique accommodations, from luxury guesthouses to cozy farm stays.

A good choice for:

The R62 Scenic Drive offers an unparalleled Road Trip experience, blending natural splendor with a taste of South Africa's viticulture and hospitable small-town charm. It's a must-do for anyone who loves the open Road, breathtaking scenery, and a touch of adventure.