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| Tradouw Pass - Barrydale to Swellendam |
We found this artwork in a field in the town - all made from colourful "junk" - it was fun taking photos while some astounded locals watched us!
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| "Art" in Barrydale, South Africa |
"The little town of Barrydale lies nestled at the foot of the beautiful Langeberge in the heart of the Tradouw Valley, close to where the northern exit of the Tradouw Pass winds through the mountains to meet Route 62, the longest wine route in the world, en route to Swellendam.
Barrydale is one of those beautiful little villages that beckon one to linger. It lies on the border between the Cape Overberg and the succulent Klein Karoo, which starts just north of the town. It is no surprise to learn that Barrydale’s history began when farmers moved into the valley to search for fertile arable land with water. The climate here is nigh on perfect for growing fruit trees, and apples, pears, oranges, apricots, figs, peaches and grape orchards lie scattered across the valley.
Any time of year in this valley is beautiful. Summer is ripe with fruit, autumn heralds in the protea season, and winter is a tapestry of colour as the surrounding Klein Karoo, renowned for its aloes, milkbush, concertina plant and succulents, breaks into flower"
We stayed on a farm in the valley - this farm has been owned by the Cooke family for over 100 years.
The crops have changed over the years with carrot and onions currently being planted for seeds only.
Apparently, Japan is a huge buyer.
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| Part of the Cooke Farm, Barrydale Route 62 South Africa |
"Most striking about the R62 is the unbeatable scenery. This unique part of South Africa is characterised by red soil, stark cliff faces, rivers, orchards, and indigenous scrub. Fynbos, including the beautiful Protea, swirl gently as cars rush by on the highway, generously letting every passer-by experience their splendour".
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| Fynbos Route 62 South Africa |
While the Main Road through the village is not very long, there are some interesting places to pop into. We had a lovely chat to one of the owners of Hardy's, a huge shop selling African Art. It must be one of the biggest collections I have ever seen. During the summer months, coaches of tourists stop here to browse for a memento of Africa and their trip down Route 62. Even if you don't buy anything, you are warmly greeted. A wonderful attitude to have.
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| Hardy's Barrydale Route 62 South Africa |
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| The Makers Brew, Barrydale Route 62 South Africa |
For those thirsty times, when only a beer will do, The Maker's Brew offers great craft beer brewed on the premises in a micro brewery. Their lineup includes an amber ale, a blonde ale, a saison and a porter. Do try them all! The owner, Ryno Reyneke, is also a photographer and co-author of a book on Craft Beer, African Brew. The adjoining studio features works by Ryno's wife, Helen Vaugh.
While we were in Barrydale a mobile Pizza Oven, The Mystic Overlander, was serving delicious pizza at the brewery. As this young couple are free and easy, they do tend move around from town to town and thoroughly enjoy their nomadic lifestyle.
Antiques, The House of Books, The Donkey Shed, Diesel & Cream are all worth a browse/visit.
Stay awhile and enjoy the tranquillity of Route 62 in South Africa - it's quirky, it's quaint, the grocery store closes at 13.00 hrs on a Saturday and only opens again on Monday and an evening meal is hard to find over the week-ends during winter! Strange but true.
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| Treasure Chest Barrydale Route 62 South Africa |
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| Karoo Lodge Barrydale Route 62 South Africa |
For Accommodation Cape Town, South Africa
