Take the scenic Route 62

Route 62 has become a favourite amongst many travellers.

Instead of taking the N2 between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, take the road less travelled.  Route 62 will take you to places and towns that reflect a different face to the Western Cape and beyond.  Travel through towns such as Worcester, Robertson, Ashton, Montagu, Barrydale and Oudtshoorn to name just a few. 

There is something here for everyone. For those who love the outdoors there are hiking trails, canooing, horseriding, fishing, caving and more.  If you are into the cultural scene then there are museums, art galleries, traditional arts & crafts and pottery etc. 

  

Wine lovers will be spoilt for choice as this is the longest wine route in the Western Cape.  There is also a Brandy Route which produces some of the best Brandy's in the world.  Stop in at some of the farms along the way there is such a variety to choose from such as the Slanghoek Winery, Badsberg Cellars, Robertson Wine Cellars, and the Graham Beck Wine Estate. A well loved favourite at many a dinner party is the Four Cousins wines produced by Van Loveren Wine Estate or if Brandy is your special drink, a visit to the Klipdrift Brandy Distillery in Robertson will be enjoyable.

There is also a vast array of Restaurants to choose from along the way, all serving their own unique dishes from Potjiekos to Pasta using local ingredients.

As you drive along the road you will see a variety of flowers such as Bougainvillea, Roses, Canna's, Protea's, Red Hot Pokers thriving in the hot sunny climate, the variety of fauna and flora along the route showcases the natural beauty of this region.

The Breede River is a vital source of water for the surrounding farms and natural habitat.  The River makes this region so fertile and suited to growing a variety of produce such as grapes, peaches, plums, apricots and herbs.  Dried fruit can be purchased at various shops showcasing the variety of local produce.

Events and Festivals in the region promote this as a great to go to destination.
The Breede River Canoe Marathon is a famous event in this area.
The Robertson "Wine on the River Festival" comes up soon on 19-21 October 2012 so why not make a long weekend of it with your family and visit the area.

This is just a short rendition of what this route is all about. There is far more to see and do, so why not get on the road and see what you will find. 

The last word...some tips on wine tasting:
Ask questions on the wines and the region
Use the water supplied to rinse your glass and cleanse the palette
Keep track of your wine consumption so that you stay within the legal limit.

For more information on this route go to :  www.route62.co.za

To experience South Africa from a different perspective go to www.travelsatleisure.com