Riding Route 62

Why take the N2 to Cape Town when you can embark on an epic journey down South Africa’s own Route 62? Reminiscent of the iconic Route 66 in the United States made famous by the Nat King Cole song in 1946, this quirky meander takes intrepid travellers from Robertson to Oudtshoorn, through Calitzdorp, Barrydale, Montagu and Ashton, to name a few of the highlights.

Route 62 appeals to anyone with a love for the open road and a keen sense of adventure.

You are completely free to forge your own itinerary as you go, stopping where you want, for as long as you want, as you pass majestic mountain passes, vineyards and fruit orchards, quirky padstals, vast Karoo landscapes and elegant Cape Dutch homesteads.

A cold drink and a good meal is easy to find on this ultimate South African road trip. Route 62 really does have it all and here’s exactly why we think it’s deserving of your shortlist:

Adopt a meerkat

Who doesn’t love meerkats? Just outside Oudtshoorn, you will discover a one-of-a-kind research reserve called Meerkat Magic, exclusively dedicated to studying the habits of these wild and fury little creatures. Here, you can join guided tours of meerkat colonies with knowledgeable guides, who will teach you about how their habits. You can even adopt a meerkat for 12 months by donating to the establishment. You won’t be able to take one of these little guys with you along Route 62, but you will receive a special adoption certificate.

Big birds and dark caves

It might not be completely incorrect to call Oudtshoorn the Ostrich Capital of the World. These giant chickens pretty much run the town. You are welcome to get up close to these first-class citizens at some of the farms and even ride one if you dare. However, if ostrich riding is not really your thing, but dim and dusty caves are, be sure to explore the Cango Caves. These fascinating limestone caves are open 365 days a year and are situated at the foothills of the Swartberg just off Route 62.

Visit Ronnie’s Sex Shop

Definitely not what you think, Ronnie’s Sex Shop and its owner (Ronnie) are well-known characters of the Little Karoo. Many years ago he opened the shop as “Ronnie’s Shop” but as the story goes, one night a few of his friends decided to amend the name to liven it up. It’s a popular pit stop for a drink along Route 62. The walls are covered with graffiti greetings from various travellers, with all sorts of underwear strung from the ceiling too. If you’re lucky, you might even be served by the Ronnie himself!

Make a splash in the hot springs

Just beyond Robertson is the gorgeous mountain town of Montagu. Not only is it the home of South Africa’s dried fruit and nut industry, it also boasts a natural hot spring. Here you can delight in comfortable, private suites, studio apartments or self-catering chalets – the perfect haven for a rest along Route 62. Paired with Avalon Springs’ warm hospitality, the even warmer natural spring pools provide an idyllic setting to sooth body and soul against the backdrop of surrounding orchards and mountains.