Avoid the queue, ride bus 62

I recently had the opportunity to embark on a thrilling adventure through the enchanting landscapes of Cape Town. While there are numerous ways to reach this captivating destination, I can confidently say that none compare to the eccentric and delightful experience offered by Route 62. Driven by the sleek and powerful Mazda CX-5, I was immersed in a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, which turned out to be an exhilarating delight.

As I set off on this remarkable voyage, I couldn’t help but be intrigued by the charm and uniqueness of Route 62. The road seemed to have a personality of its own, showcasing a fusion of charm and eccentricity that was truly captivating. Every mile that I covered revealed a hidden story, an untold secret, and a delightful surprise.

The Mazda CX-5, with its modern design and advanced features, proved to be the perfect companion for this adventure. Its smooth handling and powerful performance effortlessly conquered every bend and curve that Route 62 had to offer. As I glided through the picturesque landscapes, I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of freedom and exhilaration.

Throughout my journey, I was greeted by breathtaking natural wonders, charming towns, and friendly locals who warmly welcomed me into their communities. There was something truly magical about the way Route 62 connected me with the heart and soul of Cape Town. It was as though every twist and turn unraveled a piece of its rich history and vibrant culture.

One of the most extraordinary aspects of Route 62 was the unexpected surprises that awaited me at every corner. From quirky roadside attractions to hidden gems nestled within the mountains, there was never a dull moment on this captivating road. Each stop along the way was an opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture, taste delicious cuisine, and create memories that would last a lifetime.

As I reflect on my remarkable journey along Route 62, I realize that it’s not just a road; it’s an experience unlike any other. It’s a testament to the beauty of exploration, the joy of embracing the unknown, and the thrill of venturing off the beaten path. The combination of the charismatic road and the exceptional Mazda CX-5 created a symphony of adventure that left me in awe.

In conclusion, if you’re seeking an unforgettable adventure that will ignite your sense of wonder and leave you craving for more, then Route 62 is the ultimate destination for you. Don’t hesitate to embark on this mesmerizing journey, as every twist and turn will captivate your heart and soul. With the Mazda CX-5 as your trusted companion, the road less traveled will become an extraordinary experience that you’ll cherish forever.

Words: Mark Samuel Photos: Mark Samuel and Peet Mocke

If you start your day early in Cape Town, you can make it to Diesel & Crème in time for breakfast.

At first glance, Route 62 might not seem like the most practical choice. It’s not the quickest or smoothest route. Parts of the road are narrow, and there aren’t many glamorous gas stations or fast-food joints along the way. But who wants quick and smooth? Where’s the fun in that? Going from point A to B might be logical, but going from A to Z is way more exciting. You can add in lots of twists and turns, mountain passes, and unique pit stops along the way. It’s the interesting people you meet and the amazing places you see that create the most unforgettable memories. And if you judge a road trip by those criteria, then Route 62 in South Africa is hard to beat.

So here I am, comfortably situated in the driver’s seat of a brand-new Mazda CX-5, taking in the breathtaking sights of the Klein Karoo region. Despite the recent rainy winter, the landscape is not the verdant paradise one might expect. No, this place has a different kind of charm. It’s rugged and raw, with rocky formations and tenacious shrubs that add dashes of green and bursts of vibrant hues, just like a painting by Monet. And guess what? I happen to be here at the perfect moment to witness it all.

The Cape Fold Mountains, which were formed around 280 million years ago as a result of tectonic movements, create a captivating landscape with their winding roads and breathtaking views.

When you look at it geographically, this particular route lies inland from the N2, a rather tiresome road. To the south of the monotonous N1, you’ll come across numerous mountain peaks and vast Karoo vlaktes. If you take a glimpse at the Google Maps satellite view, you’ll notice that the mountains along this route resemble groups of crocodiles, peacefully drifting from the east to the west. To pinpoint the starting location, things become a bit vague – it’s roughly around Robertson. But once you pass through Cogmanskloof Pass and head towards Montagu, that’s when the adventure truly begins. The roadworks are nearly finished, and the CX-5 handled it all effortlessly. At the core of this Mazda is a robust, yet incredibly smooth 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine that remains content in any driving condition.

I can’t help but fall in love with Montagu. It’s a charming little town, filled with cozy coffee shops and delightful restaurants. You can even find a nursery and a weekly farmers’ market here. And let’s not forget about the majestic mountains that surround the town. These mountains are a climber’s dream, offering some of the best rock-climbing routes in all of South Africa.

As I drove 20 kilometers further, my eyes were drawn to a vibrant burst of color – a pathway of daisies leading up to Leon’s on 62. The blooming flowers were a sight to behold. Curiosity got the best of me, and I decided to stop by the bistro and have a chat with the owner, Leon Gevers. As I spent time there, I couldn’t help but connect with Leon’s rooster and pet parrot. I also had the pleasure of playing with his two adorable dachshunds. If you’re in need of a leg stretch and a delicious snack, this is the perfect place to pull over.

Hey there, have you ever tried the Chili-Chili-Bang-Bang shake? Trust me, it’s a flavor explosion!

Barrydale is like the heart of Route 62, even if you only have time to sneak in for a milkshake at the iconic Diesel & Crème. Oh, and don’t forget, you can save some cash on diesel if you fuel up at the local Agrimark. The CX-5 is super efficient, by the way!

But let me tell you, you haven’t really experienced Route 62 until you’ve made a pit stop at Ronnie’s Sex Shop. It’s legendary! Just like the majestic mountains around here, Ronnie has been a part of these parts for as long as anyone can remember. He’s the guardian of the Klein Karoo, you could say.

The journey through Huis River Pass, from Ladismith to Calitzdorp, is like a rollercoaster ride. It’s an engineering marvel! They did some major renovations in 1966, and now zooming through this pass is pure joy. Oh, and make sure to grab some lunch at one of the picnic spots along the way. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Hey there! Let me tell you about Oudtshoorn. You’ve probably heard about the ostriches, meerkats, crocodiles, and incredible caves here. But did you know that there’s even more to explore? Take a trip all the way through De Rust and beyond to Meiringspoort, and you’ll discover one of South Africa’s most amazing mountain passes.

Now, I have to admit, it’s not exactly on the R62, but trust me when I say it’s well worth the detour. As I drove along, I couldn’t help but gaze up at the towering rock formations. It was a truly jaw-dropping sight! Of course, I had to remind myself to keep my eyes on the road. It was quite the challenge!

When I set foot on the colorful trail leading to Leon’s on 62, Bistro and Kontreiwinkel, it felt like a whole new adventure was about to begin. The journey had been long, with my trusty Mazda taking me through winding roads and captivating scenery. As I reached the information center of the poort, I realized it was the perfect turning point for my car and me.

To commemorate this milestone, I decided to make my way towards the majestic Great Waterfall. Standing at 60 meters tall, it unleashed its power, cascading down a steep gorge and forming a breathtaking nine-meter-deep pool at the bottom. I was lucky enough to have this natural wonder all to myself. As I stood there, mesmerized by the water’s might, a tortoise slowly crossed my path.

I had observed this tortoise a few days earlier, and it struck me that its meandering journey mirrored the essence of my own adventure. Route 62 had proven to be the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories and discoveries.

Comparing Vehicles

The Ideal Road-Trip Companion

Mazda CX-5 2.2DE AWD Akera

The Mazda CX-5 2.2DE AWD Akera, the flagship model of Mazda’s sleek CX-5 range, is a joy to drive. Its sleek design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical, offering ample space. The vehicle is equipped with an array of luxurious features and advanced technology. It’s no wonder that this model consistently ranks as Mazda SA’s top seller.

Hey there, let me tell you about this fantastic car I found. It’s got a powerful engine that can produce an impressive 140kW of power at 4,500 revolutions per minute. And if that wasn’t enough, it also has a whopping 450Nm of torque at just 2,000 revolutions per minute!

Now, let’s talk about the service plan. It’s something that we all have to consider when buying a car, right? Well, this car comes with a three-year service plan that covers you for an unlimited number of kilometers. That means you can drive as much as you want without worrying about the maintenance costs!

And here’s the best part – the price. This incredible car can be yours for just R649,900. Now, I know what you’re thinking – that’s a lot of money. But trust me, when you see what this car has to offer, you’ll see that it’s worth every penny.

When you visit Meiringspoort Pass, you’ll be amazed by the breathtaking beauty of its 60-meter high waterfall and majestic rock canyons. It’s truly a sight to behold.

Consider Option 1

The Adventurous Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 TDI Highline 4Motion

Even though there’s a new model of the Tiguan on the way (expected to arrive in South Africa in the first quarter of 2021), the current version is still an attractive choice. However, it is becoming a bit pricey.

Power: 130kW @ 3 500–4 000r/min
Torque: 380Nm @ 1 750–3 000r/min

Service Plan:
Valid for five years or 90,000km

Price: R665,100

Introducing the Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi AWD ST Line

Meet the Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi AWD ST Line

You might not have heard much about the Ford Kuga in the midsize crossover segment, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth considering. Sure, some people might have some reservations because of its badge, but let me tell you, this diesel-powered vehicle still packs a punch. It’s a capable contender that often gets overlooked.

One of the things that sets the Ford Kuga apart is its impressive service plan. In fact, it has the longest plan of all the cars in this category. With a plan that lasts for six years or 90,000 kilometers, you can drive with peace of mind knowing that you’re covered for a good amount of time.

Now let’s talk about performance. The Ford Kuga is powered by a 2.0TDCi engine that delivers an impressive 132 kilowatts at 3,500 revolutions per minute. That means you’ll have plenty of power on tap whenever you need it. And with 400 Newton-meters of torque available between 2,000 and 3,250 revolutions per minute, you’ll have no trouble accelerating and overtaking with ease.

When it comes to the price, the Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi AWD ST Line is priced at R617,000. It’s important to note that this price can vary depending on the options and accessories you choose. But overall, for what you’re getting, it’s a good deal.

If you’re in the market for a midsize crossover that offers both power and a great service plan, the Ford Kuga 2.0TDCi AWD ST Line is definitely worth considering. Don’t let the badge fool you – this vehicle has a lot to offer.

Experience the Viljoensdrift River Cruise

Come and join me on an amazing adventure on the outskirts of Robertson. At Viljoensdrift wine farm, we have the opportunity to explore the breathtaking beauty of the Breede River on a relaxing hour-long cruise. Get on board Uncle Ben 2 and let’s embark on a journey filled with stunning sights and delightful experiences.

As we sail along the river, you can sip on a glass of our exquisite wine and enjoy a delicious picnic from your basket. Take a moment to relax and soak in the incredible scenery – the majestic trees and the vibrant birdlife that call the riverbanks their home.

The Viljoensdrift River Cruise offers a memorable experience for everyone. Tickets are priced at R90 for adults and R20 for children between the ages of 3 and 12. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable river adventure!

For more information and bookings, visit our website at viljoensdrift.co.za.

Make Viljoensdrift Your Home Away From Home

Welcome to AfriCamps at Pat Busch Mountain Reserve!

I’m excited to tell you all about our amazing location, just a 15-minute drive from Robertson. We are nestled in a lush valley, surrounded by captivating natural beauty.

When you stay with us, you’ll experience the charm of our luxury tents. We have ten tents, each accommodating up to five guests. So whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, we’ve got you covered!

Inside each tent, you’ll find two cozy bedrooms. And don’t worry about sharing bathrooms because we’ve got that covered too! Our tents are equipped with a bathroom showcasing a shower and a loo.

We believe in offering our guests a comfortable and convenient stay, which is why each tent also has a fully equipped kitchen. So you can easily whip up your favorite meals during your stay. And when it’s time to dine, gather around the dining area and enjoy your delicious creations.

If you’re looking to relax and unwind, our living room area is just what you need. It’s the perfect spot to chat, play games, or simply enjoy each other’s company.

But the best part? Step outside onto the large deck and soak in the breathtaking view of the valley. It’s the ideal place to start your day with a cup of coffee or end it with a glass of wine.

During your stay, take a dip in the refreshing pool or head to the farm dam for some aquatic fun. And if you’re in the mood for adventure, lace up your hiking boots or hop on a bike and explore the magnificent mountains surrounding us.

Our rates start at R1,190 for single occupancy and R595 per person for shared accommodation during the low season.

Rest assured, your time at AfriCamps at Pat Busch Mountain Reserve will be an unforgettable experience.

Can’t wait to have you here!

Visit africamps.com for more information and bookings.

Welcome to Africamps Klein Karoo!

Check out our collection called Blue Cow Barn. You’ll find four delightful cottages named ‘Ansie’, ‘Betsie’, ‘Corlie’, and ‘Donsie’ on the Cooke family farm, located on the edge of Barrydale. Each cottage can accommodate up to 12 people and comes equipped with a kitchenette, en-suite bathroom, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Our rates start at an affordable R250-R350 per person per night when sharing. You’ll find us situated at the corner of Van Collier St and Villiers St in Barrydale.

To learn more and book your stay, visit us at bluecowbarrydale.com.