Route 62

The Little Karoo is a unique wonderland that many people associate with mutton, renoster bushes, ostriches, sundried fruit, lovely wine, Port, and the KKNK.
The region is also home to a rich variety of people, cultures, natural beauty, animals, tourism, and agricultural activities that offer unique experiences. The area is connected by the R62, a popular regional road that passes through picturesque towns like Montagu, Barrydale, Ladysmith, Zoar, Amalienstein, Calitzdorp, Oudtshoorn, Dysselsdorp and De Rust.
Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the surroundings and towns along the R62, which takes them over mountains and valleys, through open Karoo plains, and past fruit orchards and vineyards. They can unwind in coffee shops, restaurants, or cozy guest houses while soaking in the rich history and culture of the area and its people.
The route caters to various preferences, including coffee enthusiasts, wine lovers with local cellar options, scenic rides through Cogmanskloof Pass in either a baby blue 1956 Cadillac Sedan De Ville or a red 1964 Cadillac Sedan De Ville, motorcyclists, nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, and people of all ages. Additionally, visitors can explore the famous Ronnies “Sex” Shop and much more.
However, the region has faced hardships, such as an eight-year drought that turned farmers and bank managers into “professional arm wrestlers”, and then the COVID-19 pandemic. The after-effects of the drought are still visible, with rows of orchards cut off as farmers were forced to choose which ones to keep alive.
Newly planted orchards have been planted after the rains, but they will take at least another seven years to break even.

The hardships have also affected farm workers and their families, with many losing their jobs during the drought, and few job opportunities leading to an increase in urbanization.
The wider impact of urbanization is likely to put further pressure on the infrastructure of the bigger cities. Visitors cannot help but notice the growing unemployment in the region.
Despite the hardships, there is hope! The R62G initiative aims to assist agriculture (farms), businesses, and communities of the R62 through financial support as well as socio-economic activities in collaboration with various role players.
Visitors to Route 62 can explore the towns, enjoy coffee, wine, traditional “rooster koek” bread, classic milkshakes, wood oven pizza, or stay in cozy guest houses. Additionally, they can contribute to the R62G fund by following the link,
https://www.givengain.com/cause/46254/ and spreading the word to their friends.

If you would like more information or would like to contribute in any way, please drop us a message below.