Bloupunt
Situated in the Montagu Mountain Reserve, sections of this trail are very exposed, so take protection against both sun and possible rain and cloudy weather.
You are likely to meet several townsfolk strolling in the kloof or up the mountain, or early-morning joggers out for a nature amble. It is obvious that the townsfolk hold this reserve dear, and it is a privilege to make use of their generosity. Word of precaution: in summer, this hike can be extremely hot, and this will make it much harder than it is in winter, especially when no water is found in the streams and no cooling winds stir the reeds.
From the Bloupunt summit, you command magnificent views over a vast stretch of mountain ranges and intervening lowlands: to Montagu at the foot of the mountain, McGregor, Robertson, Ashton and Bonnievale to the west and south, and the parched stretches of the Karoo to the north.
Cogmanskloof
Despite its name, this hike does not so much follow a kloof as make its way around the extremely dry and exposed slopes of the Waboomberge in Montagu. Throughout the year, you should carry enough water for the entire hike; if it is going to be a hot day, be sure to drink your fill before setting off. The only watering point is reached a short distance from the end of the hike.
Nevertheless, the height climbed is only about half that of the Bloupunt hike. If you have booked to stay in the local hiking huts, get the key from the publicity officer in town, or arrange a collecting point with him. He will give you directions for the huts, to which you can drive to off-load your gear. They are found across the Keisierivier from town, up the kloof past the old mill.
Lover's Walk
This pretty walk is really an excuse to visit the famous Montagu spa with its hot mineral baths. Along the stream, however, some pleasant pools occur, swimming in which is a most enticing prospect. The resort is very easy to find - merely follow the path up Bad Kloof; the name refers to the natural springs which you will encounter along the way. You have to pay an entrance fee at the spa, but if you are spending some time in the Montagu area, it is worth it.
The starting point is down the jeep track from the Montagu Mountain Reserve huts to the mill house. Pass the mill and turn left up the left-hand bank of the Badkloofriver. Continue up the bank for just over a kilometre, then cross the shallow stream, as the bank becomes overgrown at this point. After you have crossed the stream, either follow the right-hand bank all the way, or cross back to the other side wherever you wish. The path moves in a basic northeasterly direction, away from the town.
The valley is gentle and fertile, engulfed by mountains. There are no trees to speak of along the walk, but the civic authority has kindly provided benches along the way if you do need a rest. This is a well-used but also well-maintained path, so it is very pleasing.
Boesmanskloof
This is a very popular weekend hike, and ends at one of the most attractive villages in the Langeberg region, Greyton. The path follows the Boesmans Langkloof, for much of the duration along the river. Water is plentiful, even when you are far above the main kloof. This is the only easily accessible hike through the Riviersonderendberge, which mountaineers know as the 'waterless mountains'.
Some hardy (foolhardy) hiking types have been known to attempt complete traverses of the rugged range, but a lack of water and paths has defeated most good intentions to date. It starts off at McGregor, and the return trip is simply a reversal of the first days walk, beginning with the long, steep road back up to the saddle.