Montagu

Montagu was established in the mid-nineteenth century on the site of a farm known as Uitvlucht. It is situated in a fertile valley at the confluence of the Kinga and Keisie rivers and surrounded by the majestic Langeberg mountain range. The peaceful, historic town of Montagu is famous for its awesome rock formations, orchards, vineyards, local herbs and healing hot mineral springs.

Afrikaaner voortrekkers found the river water here strangely flavoured, yet wonderfully refreshing, so they followed the river's course. They found hot springs bubbling to the surface at 45°C, and decided to stay.

Montagu's hot springs can now be enjoyed by everyone, and a large swimming pool complex has been built which gets very busy over weekends. The Long Street of Montagu has 14 of the town's 23 national monuments, the gardens bloom with roses and the surrounding fields are full of fruit and vines.

The fresh air and beautiful scenery make Montagu a delightful place to visit. Looking down on the town from beside the rusty old cannon on the hill, you can see the road sneaking off between yellow rocky mountains. Out to the west, the iron-tinged rocks look like waves on the point of breaking.

Visitors have the opportunity to experience a number of activities in Montagu, including walks in the wildflower nature garden and bird sanctuaries, visits to museums, art galleries and historic homes, hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing as well as a tractor ride to the top of the Langeberg Mountains. The town also boasts many well-preserved Cape Dutch and Gregorian National Monuments.

The English thought this a strategic place to build a fort. Today the remains of an 1899 Anglo-Boer War bastion sit above an amazingly engineered tunnel through sheer rock at Cogmans Kloof, known locally as the gateway to the Klein Karoo.

In typical Klein Karoo small town style, the inhabitants of Montagu, and the surrounding towns - Swellendam, McGregor, Bonnievale, Robertson, Barrydale, Riviersonderend, Ladysmith and Calitzdorp - are friendly and down-to-earth. Visitors are always made to feel welcome in Montagu and can expect great hospitality in any of the accommodation establishments in and around the town.

View all Montagu accommodation

View all Montagu tours

Enquire now |  Add to my enquiry