| Montagu
is the gateway to the Little Karoo and also the scenic heart of Route
62. This historic link between Cape Town, Oudtshoorn, the Garden Route
and the Eastern Cape, offers travellers remarkable beauty and excellent
facilities. All combining to make this one of the most memorable journeys
in South Africa, winding through spectacular scenery and mountain passes.
Some of the most famous wineries in the Western Cape are to be found along
the way, making it one continuous wine route.
There are similarities between Route 62 and America's Route 66. Both were
developed to link rural towns and villages to major centres and both were
replaced by highways diverting traffic along more direct roads. Route
62 is now emerging from hibernation to delight the descerning tourist
wanting to explore the best of the Western Cape.
Centrally situated between Cape Town and Oudtshoorn, Montagu, on Route
62, nestles in the western corner of Kannaland. A unique rural atmosphere
distinguishes Montagu as one of the best preserved late Victorian agricultural
villages in the Cape. There is a variety of superb accommodation and excellent
restaurants. As the mountain Mecca of the Western Cape, Montagu is the
perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
Montagu
was founded in 1851 on the farm Uitvlucht, which had belonged to
Pieter Swanepoel since 1841. The first erven were sold and the Dutch
Reformed congregation was established. |
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The village was named after John Montagu, then Colonial Secretary
of the Cape, who traveled here to "baptise" the town.
The ceremony took place on the erf situated at corner of Church
and Long Street. Signed photographs of John Montagu may be viewed
in the Montagu Museum and Library. Most of the erven were sold to
colonists from the "Wagenmakersvallei" near Wellington
from where building materials had to be lugged by ox wagon over
Bain's Kloof to Montagu.
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Most of
our Cape Dutch thatched roof houses date from the years 1853 - 1870.
It is generally accepted that Joubert House situated in Long Street,
built in 1853, is the oldest house in Montagu. In 1983 it was restored
to its former glory, and as a section of the Montagu Museum, it
depicts the lifestyle of the late 19th century. |
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Montagu, once known as "Agter Cogman's Kloof", lies between
the Keisie and Kingna rivers which join at the western extremity of the
town. In the 19th century the only exit to the West was through Cogmanskloof
and during the passage through the Kloof the river had to be forded eight
times! Strong teams of horses or oxen were required for the trip as carts
and wagons were very often stranded in the Kloof.
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A
mail coach transported the post between Ashton and Montagu and its
arrival an special days was always a great event. The old coach
house is still in existence and is used as a dwelling house. After
the tunnel, constructed by Thomas Bain, was completed in 1877, a
decent road was built through Cogmanskloof and other roads soon
followed. In 1931 the road through the Kloof was tarred, streets
and the provision of electricity in the village soon followed. |
Work
on the Dutch Reformed Church, looking today much as it did then,
built at a cost of 4490 pounds, commenced in May 1852; the first
minister was Dr Servaas Hofmeyr, who was ordained 2 years previously:
his salary was 300 pounds per annum! |
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Education was not neglected, and Mr. Bernardus Keet was appointed as the
first teacher in 1855, followed by Mr. George Euvrard. Dr Joseph Castle
was the first resident medical doctor and with Dr Hofmeyr and Mr. Euvrard
made the triumvirate, much revered and respected in the area.
Mr. WA Joubert was the first mayor of the newly-declared municipality
in 1895, and within a few years water was laid on to every house in the
town after having formally been carried from The mill. The authentic water
mill from the farm "Meulplaas" in the district has been reconstructed
neat the site of the original and forms part of the Eyssen House complex
(Die Ou Meul). The latter is the birthplace of Stephan Eyssen, the first
well-known composer of Afrikaans music and song.
The Montagu Museum in Long Street was officially opened in May 1975. It's
theme in the History of Montagu and its people in all aspects and it contains
collections on Africana well worth viewing and studying.
It is practically impossible to ascertain the exact date of the discovery
of Montagu's hot mineral spring, but the manner of their discovery is
as follows: In the very early days trekkers often followed the course
of rivers, and, according to our archives, the wagon on one such nameless
pioneer became stuck in the rocks of the river bed. In his efforts to
free the wheels, the trekker's hand was so badly injured that his party
was obliged to pitch camp in the vicinity of the present-day Montagu.
They drank of the clear, strange-flavored water, found it wonderfully
refreshing and traced its course through the Kloof where they discovered
the hot spring. The injured hand, bathed frequently in the warm water,
healed miraculously. News of the healing water was soon spread by word
of mouth and as a result the sick and ailing visited the hot spring, sometimes
from as far afield as 50 miles, which was a considerable distance to travel
in those days.
The now-popular Montagu bath were originally part of the farm "Uitvlucht"
but were sold for the first time in 1857, and have since been in the hands
of various hands and bodies. At one time the property belonged to the
old NCCR (New Cape Central Railways), also to Mr Jannie Marais, the benefactor
of Stellenbosch University. Other owners were a Mr Fernandes (from Madeira)
who gave the whole complex an exotic and literally colorful character.
Mr Hugh Tevis, Australian millionaire, intended building a large imposing
spa but wartime restrictions (1939 - 1945) dictated otherwise and he settled
for building only "Little Sanctuary" as a holiday home. A Montagu
hotelier, Mr Aaron Idelson followed, and the Montagu Municipality then
took over, and the caravan park and public swimming pool were subsequently
constructed.
On the 25th of January 1981, disaster struck Montagu in the form of a
flood which swept away the entire Baths complex, stripped the Kloof of
all vegetation (excepting 1 tree) and altered the course of the Keisie
River to such an extent that the beautiful walking trail through the Kloof
was completely obliterated and Lover's Walk destroyed. However, the Municipality
investigated all venues until a developer was found who gave Montagu Springs
its present new look, and reconstruction of the Hotel had already been
commenced by a local hotelier.
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Lover's
Walk has been painstakingly been built up and spacious lawns now
fringe the walk that, like before passes the beautiful cliffs, leads
past Eyssen House (the Ou Meul) and through the Baths Kloof to the
hot springs. Many trees have been planted, and the enchanting beauty
of the most charming walk can once again be enjoyed.
The luxurious new Springs Hotel attracts hosts of tourists, including
many from overseas and all are fascinated by the exquisite setting
and most impressive beauty of the whole Baths project. |
The Nature Garden was founded in 1954, and offers peace and total relaxation
throughout the years, but in spring the vygies and other plants in bloom
are an absolute delight. |
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Accommodation |
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P.O.Box 43
Montagu, 6720
Tel: +27(0)23 614-1186
Fax +27(0)23 614-3442
Cell: +27(0)83 320-3172
E-mail: mwjones@yebo.co.za
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7
Church Street
Situated in the heart
of Montagu, our tastefully restored Victorian home is set in beautiful
park like gardens with sparkling swimming pool, surrounded by panoramic
mountain views. All rooms are en-suite and guests have a choice of two
charmingly decorated bedrooms, a luxurious honeymoon suite comprising
four-poster bed, with own entrance and exit to the garden/pool. The stunning
elevated garden-suite has a large lounge, TV and fridge, with a sundeck
over looking the garden. Let us spoil you with our luxurious embroidered
cotton percale linen, scrumptious breakfast and friendly ambience.
Portfolio
Luxury Rated.
Visit our website:
www.7churchstreet.co.za
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Aasvoëlkrans B&B
Enjoy complete privacy in four luxury appointed garden cottages, warmed by splashes of colour and buckets of garden and wild flowers. This perfect mix of nature, art and architecture is located at the foot of the majestic Langeberg Mountains. Experience the splendour of Arabian horses, friendly Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs and African Guinea Fowl playing in the garden. Enjoy wall-to-wall blue skies from the pool. At night, bright starry skies accompany you to one of five nearby restaurants. Credit cards accepted.
AA Quality Assured: Superior Accommodation
Visit our website: www.aasvoelkrans.co.za |
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Airlies
Guesthouse, Bed and Breakfast
Tielman and Corrie de Villiers wish to welcome and spoil you in the peaceful
atmosphere of AIRLIES, our historic home, built at the beginning of the
previous century. We have four spacious double rooms to chooce from, each
with own bathroom and tea-/coffee facilities. A delicious breakfast is prepared
and served by us personally. Barbeque, swimming pool and safe parking is
available.
Visit our website: www.airlies.co.za
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16 Van Riebeeck
Street
Montagu, 6720
Tel/Fax: +27(0)23 614-3329
Cell: +27(0)82 331-9372
E-mail: anchorage@mweb.co.za
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Anchorage
Inn
Our guests are accommodated
in thatched cottages, each decorated with care. All have private entrance,
attractive lounge with TV, comfortable beds with quality mattresses, spacious
bathrooms. All B&B cottages contain a bar fridge, tea & coffee
facilities, and some even have a small microwave. Small touches such as
wall-mounted panel heaters, clock radio, hair dryer, a decanter with complimentary
muscadel and homemade rusks round off your experience. A delicious English
breakfast is served in the breakfast room in the main house, with magnificent
views of the surrounding mountains. Room service is available on request.
Self-catering cottages are fully equipped, including linen. Braai facilities
available, safe off-street parking.
Relax by the pool,
soaking in the view, or let your hosts Joop and Monica assist you in planning
a day trip to any of the numerous nearby interesting sights.
We guarantee a memorable
stay
Visit our website:
www.anchorage-inn.co.za |
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Avalon
Springs Hotel
Luxury Hotel, Conference Centre, Spa, Holiday Resort
Semi Lux Self Catering and Timeshare (more
info)
Visit our website:
www.avalonsprings.co.za |
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46 Long Street
Montagu, 6720
Tel: +27(0)23 614-2778
Fax: +27(0)23 614-2911
E-mail: fouroaks@lando.co.za |
Four Oaks Guest House
Set in the picturesque village of Montagu on the scenic Route 62, Four Oaks Guest House and templeton’s restaurant is housed in a National Monument dating back to 1855.
The thatched building offers 4 luxury en-suite rooms with air-conditioning, satellite TV, DVD players and private entrances all leading onto a courtyard which is shaded by 2 100-year old pear trees. A secluded garden with a sparkling pool is the perfect spot to admire the magnificant surrounding mountains and to cool off after a day out in the country.
The owners, Stephen and Jo-mandi Templeton have turned this historical building into a wonderful gourmet retreat with addition of the newly refurbished templeton’s @ four oaks restaurant and the charming wine & cigar bar.
Visit our website: www.lando.co.za/fouroaks |
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Fraai
Uitzicht Historic Wine and Guest Farm
Fraai Uitzicht 1798.
This gem of a retreat lies in the heart of the Robertson Wine Valley on
the scenic Route 62, linking Cape Town to the Garden Route. Here, nestling
among the majestic Langeberg hills, this beautiful wine and guest farm with
an award-winning restaurant welcomes you to the real vineyard experience.
Offering
4-star, superior accommodation with spectacular views across the Robertson
Wine Valley and surrounded by vineyards, fruit orchards and a wealth of
bird life, it is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty and tranquility
of nature!
Attentive hosts provide a relaxed ambience for a fine dining experience in the award-winning Restaurant. We are open from Monday to Sunday. We speak English, German, Xhosa, Italian and Afrikaans. Closed from June - August. Here, hearty home-cooked dishes are prepared
with personal attention, using fresh ingredients from the vegetable and
herb garden, complimented by a selection of the best wines from the Robertson
Wine Valley. (more
info)
Visit our website: www.fraaiuitzicht.com
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P.O. Box 203
Montagu, 6720
Tel: +27(0)23 614-2790
Fax: +27(0)23 614-2312
E-mail: info@goedemoed.co.za
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Goedemoed
Farm Cottage
This
self-contained cottage caters for up to four people sharing and offers
a high standard of self-catering accommodation comprising a main bedroom
with double four-poster bed and second twin-bedroom complete with duvets,
linen and towels. A bathroom with shower and fully equipped kitchenette
with stove, fridge, microwave etc. An open plan sitting room with DSTV,
dining area, all tastefully decorated, overlooking your own private patio
and garden with lovely mountain views. On the premises you will also find
a sparkling swimming pool and a secluded braai area.
Visit
our website: www.lando.co.za/goedemoedcottage |
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P.O. Box 275
Montagu, 6720
Tel: +27(023) 614 1331
Fax: +27(023) 614 3981
Cell:
+27(0)82 4858 287
E-mail: info@johnmontagu.co.za
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John Montagu Guest House
Sherry Tainton invites you to experience tranquil Victorian living at the beautifully restored John Montagu, only 2 hours drive from either Cape Town or Oudtshoorn - an ideal retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Centrally situated in a quiet street in the picturesque town of Montagu. John Montagu Guest House offers five beautifully furnished en-suite bedrooms each uniquely decorated in a Victorian style. There is a choice of double or twin beds. Breakfast is served in the sunny dining room overlooking the pool. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh fruits, home made breads, scones and muffins. A full English breakfast is always available for those with the necessary appetite. On sunny days and warm evenings splash in the beautiful beach pool in the rear garden, or sip a cooling drink in the poolside bar.
Visit our website: www.johnmontagu.co.za
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P.O. Box 183
Montagu, 6720
Tel/Fax: +27 (0)23 614 2336
Fax: +27 (0)86 515-3423
E-mail: info@keisiecottages.co.za |
Keisie Cottages
A rustic mountain retreat on a beautiful fruit and wine farm in the Keisie Valley - 24km outside Montagu - Keisie offers four rustic converted workers' cottages and a separate more modern house that accommodates six guests, which we call Keisie Huisie. Both the cottages and house have a wonderful outlook and are fully self-catering, The laborers cottages all have lovely traditional fireplaces. All the cottages have private braai facilities. The farm is close to Protea Farm and its "world famous" tractor ride to the top of the Langeberg . A lovely place to relax and enjoy nature, you can swim in the cement dam, go mountain biking, hiking through the mountains or to our rock pools or just stroll among the roses or gooseberries. Good value budget accommodation which is comfortable and tranquil.
Visit our website: www.keisiecottages.co.za |
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P.O. Box 360
Montagu, 6720
Tel/Fax: +27 (0)23 614 1364
Cell: +27(0)72 502 9190
E-mail: info@kookaroo.co.za |
Koo Karoo Guest Lodge
Paul & Shirley would like to welcome you to the Koo Karoo. The property is centrally situated in a quiet street in the historic part of Montagu.
Leave your car in our off street parking area as restaurants and all other amenities are within walking distance.
Four spacious en suite rooms, each with private entrance are located in the main house. Each room is equipped with tea/coffee facilities, heaters and fans. The secluded garden offers braai area and sparkling pool with honesty bar. The guest lounge is comfortably furnished and provides DSTV where guests can enjoy a complimentary glass of Montagu Muscadel. English or Continental Breakfast is personally served in the dining area or on the terrace overlooking the garden.
A fully equipped self catering family cottage (up to six people) is situated within the garden area.
Recommended Accommodation by the AA
Visit our website: www.kookaroo.co.za |
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17 Long Street
Montagu, 6720
Tel: +27 (0)23 614-3617
Fax: +27 (0)23 614-3618
E-mail: info@malherbe-guesthouse.com
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Malherbe
Guesthouse
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Malherbe guesthouse is a National Monument and was built in 1859. The house has been lovingly restored and offers 4 en-suite rooms, 2 with private patios. Rooms have a fan, a heater for the winter, hospitality tray and hairdryer, garden rooms have TV with MNet. The guesthouse also has a spacious guest lounge with honesty bar. Enjoy a complementary glass Montagu Muscadel.
The guest lounge overlooks the lovely secluded garden with beautiful views of the Langeberg mountains. Take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool or laze in the shade in a comfortable lounge chair.
In the morning a scrumptious breakfast (with homemade bread and fresh orange juice) is served on the terrace under the vines overlooking the garden or indoors.
AA
Quality Assured: Superior Accommodation
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P.O.Box 323
Montagu, 6720
Tel: +27(0)23 614-2351
Fax: +27(0)23 614-2418
E-mail: mimosa@lando.co.za
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Mimosa
Lodge
At Mimosa Lodge, in the heart of the friendly and hospitable small country
village of Montagu, you will find the perfect setting to relax, unwind
and re-discover another pace in life. The 9 Classic bedrooms and 7 suites,
all different and individual, will charm you with warm colours and little
thoughtful touches.
All suites are situated
in the garden, each with a private patio or balcony and spectacular views
of the mountains. Their bathrooms offer separate bath and shower facilities
and the Orchard Suite has its own private pool. The Classic rooms, with
modern en-suite bathrooms, are mostly situated in the main building.
The Lodge is renowned
for its creative cuisine, headed by owner-chef Bernhard Hess. He only
uses the freshest ingredients, grown in our own garden.
Visit our website:
www.mimosa.co.za |
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Montagu
Country Hotel
Luxury rooms are in a Victorian Villa built in 1905 in the garden behind
the main hotel. The villa offers four bedrooms -2 twin-bedded, 1 Queen and
King size. 23 Classic rooms are in the main block of the Art Deco hotel
and offer air -conditioning and modern facilities to ensure an enjoyable
stay. (more info) |
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P.O.Box
277
Montagu, 6720
Tel: +27(0)23 614-1050
Fax: +27(0)23 614-2235
E-mail: msprings@intekom.co.za
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Montagu
Springs
Montagu Springs Holiday Resort can best be described as an oasis at
the gateway to the Little Karoo. The Resort is located between two mountain
ranges and boasts crystal clear air, away from all pollution. The approach
to Montagu from Ashton, through Cogman's Kloof, is awesome. It
is truly a haven for all seasons. In winter, the days are warm and sunny
and rainfall is virtually unknown. In spring, the Resort is transformed
into a kaleidoscope of greens and browns, as the adjacent peach and
plum trees bloom in their freshness. In October, the bougainvillea and
roses are at their best.
All chalets, which
are spotlessly clean, are fully equipped with hot and cold air-conditioning,
microwave, colour television, fridge,
stove, bed linen and spare blankets and a complete range of cutlery,
crockery, pots and pans and all braai(barbecue) facilities. All you
need to bring along are towels, toiletries, washing up liquids, dishcloths
and food.
Visit our website:
www.montagusprings.co.za
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P.O.Box 592
Montagu, 6720
Tel/Fax: +27(0)23 614 3812
Cell: +27(0)82 561 0529
E-mail: info@montaguvines.co.za |
Montagu Vines
Montagu Vines offers 3 garden rooms and 2 rooms in the main farmhouse. The tastefully decorated garden rooms include a fireplace and are en-suite with a verandah that overlooks the garden and vineyard with the spectacular mountains as a backdrop. All rooms at Montagu Vines have television, heated towel rails, hair driers, a welcome tray with tea and coffee, a bowl of fruit and a complimentary bottle of wine produced from the grapes of our vineyard. In the morning a full breakfast is served in the main farmhouse. This is a feast of fresh fruit in season, stewed fruit, yoghurt, muesli and cereals and fresh fruit juice followed by your choice of eggs, bacon, sausage, tomatoes and mushrooms or cold meats and cheeses. Please note that smoking is only permitted outdoors and children should be over 12 years of age.
Highly Recommended Accommodation by the AA
Visit our website: www.montaguvines.co.za
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P.O.Box 274
Montagu, 6720
Tel: +27(0)28 572-1922
Fax: +27(0)28 572-1290
E-mail: info@monteco.co.za |
MontEco Nature Reserve
Award-winning nature reserve in the heart of the Klein Karoo offering superb accommodation in secluded self-catering cottages. The cottages are luxuriously furnished and equipped, utilizing eco-friendly solar energy systems for lighting and warm water. The cottages are privately situated with unsurpassed views of distant mountains and river valleys. Each unit has an outside veranda and deck, giving visitors the opportunity of bird watching, game viewing and stargazing from the luxury of your cottage.
The Riverside Camp Site is situated alongside a densely vegetated riverbed, offering privacy in shaded sites. There are seven individual sites, each with its own brick-built braai and log tables & chairs. There is a hot-water ablution block and an all-weather lapa for group gatherings or cool weather.
Visitors are welcome to visit the reserve for the day and enjoy a 4x4 adventure trail, guided nature drive, quad trail excursion or picnic in this tranquil environment, surrounded by panoramic views and fresh country air. Relaxing by the swimming pool is an ideal way to spend the afternoon after a morning’s mountain biking or hike.
Visit our website: www.monteco.co.za
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P.O.Box
391
Montagu, 6720
Tel: +27(0)23 614-1492
Fax: +27(0)82 460-5505
Cell: +27(0)82 942-7233
E-mail: info@ravenna.co.za |
Ravenna Mountain Retreat Guest Farm
Nestling between the Majestic Langeberg Mountains and rugged
koppies... a fruit farm offering, 7 fully equipped self catering or bed and breakfast cottages. There are various routes for hiking, walking and mountain biking as well as a circular swimming pool and bird watching deck. In close proximity excellent 4x4 routes, horse riding, and fishing. Guest accommodation consists of 6 luxury fully equipped, self-catering cottages, each with its own cosy atmosphere, private setting and endless views. 1 Bed and Breakfast room with a unique
Karoo atmosphere and setting. A secluded one bedroom cottage ideal for honeymooners, complete with a Victorian bath and open air shower. Each cottage has a fireplace and braai/barbeque facilities, bar fridge and kitchenette.Scrumptious farm breakfasts and picnic baskets on request.
offers you peaceful, tranquil surroundings and unending views. Unspoiled landscapes and fresh air and mountain water all year round. Experience the uniqueness of the Little Karoo on your doorstep! Only 28 km from Montagu on the Route 62 towards Barrydale.
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Whispering Trees
Fully equipped luxury cottage with loads of character
Central to all amenities (museums, historical buildings, Breede River wine farms, farm stalls, and restaurants)
Stunning mountain- and vineyard views
Private braai facility & swimming pool
Safe off road parking
Sleeps four |
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Qui-Si-Sana
Open all year round. Self catering cottages in a peaceful country atmosphere (from R80.00 per person per night) or bed and breakfast rooms. Spectacular views, infinity pool and enchanting gardens.
We are in walking distance from the famous hot springs in Montagu.
Visit our website: www.qui-si-sana.co.za |
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