Things to Do
Nature lovers and explorers of the Western Cape, who enjoy fun things to do cannot go wrong with Barrydale. Tucked away in a lush valley along the Langeberg Mountain range, Barrydale is one of many small town delights that travellers of Route 62 in the Klein Karoo Overberg region would recommend visiting.
A three hour drive from Cape Town, Barrydale is easily accessed by the 14 km Tradouw Pass from Swellendam. For those that may be put off by road travel exceeding more than an hour, Barrydale’s warm and friendly people are just one reason why a trip to the quaint town is worth the journey.
A three hour drive from Cape Town, Barrydale is easily accessed by the 14 km Tradouw Pass from Swellendam. For those that may be put off by road travel exceeding more than an hour, Barrydale’s warm and friendly people are just one reason why a trip to the quaint town is worth the journey.
Caters for the Family
When one thinks of Barrydale images of delicious fruit and a landscape of boundless greenery may begin to take shape. Which are certainly aspects of the Barrydale experience, but this inviting small town is more than that, Barrydale caters for the family.
For starters, Barrydale is populated by quirky individuals who add a colourful mix of conversation and creativity to the town. Barrydale also has farm stalls filled with fresh produce, biltong shops which are a standard South African staple, pubs for a scrumptious bite to eat, horse riding for those interested in equestrian pursuits and a host of happy activities to appeal to both young and old.
Physical Activities
For those who live for adrenaline pumping fun, Barrydale has a selection of physical activities for the family. In fact, they have a range of activities that will entice the whole family from taking in the vistas of the mountains, hills and valleys on farm tours and horse riding to 4x4 driving, quad biking and mountain biking to captivate the young and old alike.
If trout fishing attracted your interest, visit Killarney Farm, which is located on the most elevated aspect between Montagu and Barrydale. A serene location offering ample opportunities for peace and tranquility not to mention three dams teeming with Rainbow and Brown trout, a perfect combination for those who regularly fish as well as those new to the pastime. You also have the option of keeping the fish that you catch, however this will come at a monetary cost.
A popular activity to try in any location, but especially in Barrydale, are one of its many farm tours. Not only will you be transported through the natural splendour of its striking landscape, you will also gain a glimpse into Barrydale’s past. Add in a few wine tastings and all your senses would have been thoroughly nourished.
Achieve Inner Peace
Achieving inner peace is a state that many individuals aim to experience. If you are one of those individuals then Barrydale is exactly the spot to further your intention. The South African Peace Pagoda, a structure or monument built to cultivate peace with roots in Buddhism, was consecrated in 2000 by the distinguished Burmese monk, Sayadaw U Thila Wunta. The South African Peace Pagoda is intended to be a place where people can come to channel light and love and create a higher state of awareness and healing within.
The 7 m structure is gold in hue and placed at The Manger, a farm in Barrydale. Continuing on the enlightened path. The Manger is also home to a labyrinth which allows visitors to practice meditation as they follow its maze-like pattern.
The existence of these mindful features are a testimony to the open and harmonious nature of Barrydale and its enlightened inhabitants.
Nature and Wildlife
The Klein Karoo and Overberg region, especially on Route 62 plays host to several nature reserves allowing visitors to Barrydale ample opportunity for nature and wildlife sighting. If experiencing wildlife up close is on your bucket list, go ahead and cross it off when you find yourself in the surrounds of Barrydale. A popular wildlife reserve approximately 30.6 km from Barrydale, allows travellers the enviable experience of spotting the Big 5 in their natural habitat.
Additional outdoor experiences include game drives, nature walks, boat safaris and your pick of wellness retreats. A go-to retreat for many visitors to the Warmwaterberg area, is located at the base of the majestic Warmwaterberg Mountains, which creates an ideal backdrop for rejuvenation and reflection.
This popular wellness spa also caters to visitors wishing to stay overnight in the area, allowing them to prolong their enjoyment of the naturally occurring hot mineral spring water. After all, what better way to balance your sightseeing than with rest and relaxation in a peaceful green setting?
Unwind at the Warmwaterberg Spa, where visitors can stay overnight and enjoy the fresh natural hot mineral spring water. The spa is located at the foothills of the Warmwater Mountains, and you can enjoy a peaceful and rejuvenating stay while taking in the amazing natural beauty of the location.
Barrydale is just one of many unique towns along the popular Route 62, and most travellers remember it for either one of these: great farm s...