The Klein Karoo Wine route is the easternmost wine producing region in the country, stretching along Route 62 from Montagu in the west to De Rust in the east. This beautiful region is situated between spectacular mountain ranges, and its vines are mostly grown in the fertile alluvial soil along the riverbanks. The climate is generally drier than that of the other wine regions, resulting in healthy vineyards that are, increasingly, farmed organically.
Various microclimates enable Klein Karoo winemakers to produce a wide variety of quality wines, including dry wines, fortified wines and brandies, but there are a few specialities.
World class port and South Africa’s champion muscatel are produced in this region, along with an extensive range of dessert wines. The Calitzdorp area holds a Port Festival every winter. Although the region produces many outstanding white wines, local cognoscenti prize the full-bodied, characterful reds. There are just over a dozen wineries in the region, all situated along the R62, in or near the towns of Montagu, Barrydale, Ladismith, Calitzdorp, Oudtshoorn and De Rust.
But there is more to the Klein Karoo than just wine. Many of the wine farmers also produce excellent quality olives, and the region is renowned for its delicious deciduous fruit. Meat lovers will enjoy the tasty, virtually fat-free, ostrich meat and the unique Karoo lamb for which the area is noted.
The scenery is fantastic, with some utterly spectacular and rugged mountain passes, and there are wonderful activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horse riding and visits to rock art sites. And this area is famous for its ostrich farms, most of which offer tours.
Accommodation options in the area range from backpackers and camping to luxury lodges, fantastic farm stays and cosy B&B’s. The Garden Route is a short, scenic drive away. The western and eastern extremes of this route are about a three hour drive from Cape Town and Port Elizabeth respectively.