The Beauty of the Offbeat: Exploring Three Hidden Routes

Imagine you’re an intrepid explorer, driving an ordinary car like David Livingstone in his Toyota Tazz, or Harry the Beachcomber in his Nissan Micra. Maybe you’re even channeling your inner John Wayne, conquering the rugged terrain in a trusty Bantam bakkie. Or maybe, it’s just you – soaking in the sights along one of those secluded dirt roads in South Africa, with the satisfying kick of dust dancing behind you in the rear-view mirror.

A patient buzzard perched on a tree branch signals the way to a hidden path, enticing adventurous souls like you to take the leap and leave the predictable safety of the smooth, paved roads behind.

In the past, traveling was not as convenient as it is today. Back then, people like Livingstone and beachcombers had to navigate through rough terrains with no proper roads. But now, thanks to the extensive network of highways and well-paved streets, we can reach almost any destination with ease. Sure, there might still be some bumpy sections here and there, but overall, South Africa has a pretty good road system.

However, despite the improvements in infrastructure, there are still situations that can make driving a less enjoyable experience. Whether it’s being stuck behind a long line of trucks, dealing with numerous stop-and-go sections on a road, or enduring the monotony of a long-distance journey, driving can sometimes be a real pain. But fear not, because there is a solution that can make the whole experience much more enjoyable. And the best part is that it’s not just reserved for those who own fancy 4×4 Land Rovers – it’s for you and your compact car too.

When I look at a roadmap of our provinces, something catches my eye – the thin red lines that sprawl across the page, reaching in every direction. At first glance, they may appear insignificant, overshadowed by the bustling highways that we rely on to get from place to place. But if you take a moment to truly see them, you’ll discover that these secondary roads are more than just narrow pathways – they’re a gateway to the natural beauty that South Africa has to offer.

Unlike the highways that rush us along, the backroads and byways of this country hold a different kind of allure. They are hidden gems, winding through breathtaking landscapes and offering an escape from the mundane. As I travel along these lesser-known routes, I find myself surrounded by majestic scenery, untouched by the hustle and bustle of busy highways.

Picture this: you’re driving along one of these secondary roads, and as you look out your window, you’re greeted by a scene that takes your breath away. Endless green fields stretch out before you, dotted with vibrant wildflowers. A winding river snakes its way through the landscape, reflecting the golden hues of the setting sun. Majestic mountains loom in the distance, their peaks reaching towards the heavens. This is a view that no national highway can offer.

These secondary roads are a testament to the beauty of our provinces, a reminder that there is so much more to explore beyond the beaten path. They beckon us to slow down and appreciate the wonders that surround us. So next time you find yourself behind the wheel, consider taking the road less traveled. You never know what breathtaking sights await you just around the bend.

If you’ve ever taken the scenic route through the Cederberg mountains instead of just sticking to the main N7 road, you know how amazing the back roads can be. It may seem like a longer route, but once you reach that spot near Algeria and see the breathtaking view of the Cederberg valley below, you won’t even think about the extra distance.

But you don’t have to go far to discover the hidden beauty beyond the main road: simply take a detour off the N7 at Citrusdal and drive along the dirt road to Clanwilliam. This scenic route, which runs alongside the N7 for exactly 3km, is a true gem. As you travel, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Clanwilliam dam, with its lush green surroundings and picturesque citrus orchards. The road winds and bends, taking you through fynbos-covered hills and bringing you right to the edge of the shimmering, mysterious dam.

Exploring the Lesser-known Roads of the Klein Karoo

Hey there! Are you heading to Oudshoorn? Why not take the scenic route from Montagu to Ladismith along the farm road? Feel the vibration of your tires as you glide over each little hill in the beautiful Klein Karoo, with some spare coins jingling in your cup-holder. As you drive alone on this dusty road, you might just catch a glimpse of a red-crested jackal buzzard perched on a telephone pole up ahead. Intrigued, you decide to turn off your engine and step out onto the wide, empty road. The world around you suddenly becomes calm and silent. No traffic, no trucks, and no loud Engine One-Stops blaring their horns. Just the sound of your shoes crunching on the gravel and the wind whistling through the pale landscape. The jackal buzzard turns its head towards the horizon, spreads its wings, and gracefully takes off into the endless blue sky.

Swartberg Pass

Driving along winding, climbing, and contorting pathways is pure pleasure. More than just promising solitude and picturesqueness, these back roads offer an exhilarating experience. Heading out from Oudshoorn towards the N1, you can embark on the breathtaking Swartberg pass. And if you’re up for an extra thrill, the stunning Seweweekspoort just outside Ladismith is worth a try.

While Swartberg pass may pose a challenge for smaller motors, the unparalleled beauty and sense of adventure make it a must-visit. Take in the stunning scenery as you navigate this winding path. And don’t forget to stop for lunch! You can even venture down to the infamous Die Hel and enjoy a delightful picnic next to the Gamka river.

Discover the Prince Albert Pass

If you’re headed to the coast from the Klein Karoo, make your way to Knysna through Avontuur, just outside Uniondale. You might need to ask for directions because there’s a tricky turn-off that leads you to one of the most amazing mountain passes in the Western Cape. Prince Alfred’s pass was created in 1863 by Thomas Charles John Baine, a legendary figure in South African road construction. It’s not only the longest mountain pass in the country, stretching for 80.5 kilometers, but also the second oldest one that hasn’t been altered. Back then, it was built by chain-gangs to connect inland farming areas with the small port of Knysna. However, driving along Prince Alfred’s pass today, it feels like it was made just for the joy of adventurous drivers.

The Prince Alfred’s Pass winds its way through the majestic Outeniqua mountains, offering breathtaking views of the lush green valley below. As I drive along this enchanting road, I can’t help but be captivated by its charm. The journey is an adventure in itself, as I navigate through brooks and cross small bridges, immersing myself in the beauty of the Knysna forests.

As I continue, the road becomes enveloped by a dense canopy of leaves and branches, transporting me into the pages of a Dalene Matthee novel. The ancient trees cast long shadows, creating an atmosphere of mystery and intrigue. Suddenly, the scenery changes dramatically, revealing a breathtaking view of the vast blue Indian Ocean with the town of Knysna in the distance. This is just one of the many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

It’s not just the Northern and Western Cape that boast these remarkable roads. In fact, there are countless hidden back roads all over the country, just waiting to be explored. The best part is, you don’t need a fancy 4×4 vehicle to embark on these adventures. Even with a small 2-wheel drive car, you can experience the magic and splendor of South Africa’s back roads and byways. So why not take a chance and venture off the beaten path?

The amazing thing is that you don’t even need a map to find these hidden treasures. They are all waiting for you to discover, right at your fingertips. So next time you plan a cross-country drive, consider veering off the mainstream routes and embracing the allure of South Africa’s hidden roads. Leave the safety of the tarmac behind and embark on a journey that will leave you with lasting memories.