Drive to Oudtshoorn, Swartberg Pass, De Hel & Prince Albert

The drive through the Nels Valley and over the Swartberg Pass to the charming village of Prince Albert and then through Meiringspoort and De Rust and back to Oudtshoorn is probably one of the most rugged, amazing drives you will do anywhere in the world.

From Cape Town, on the R62, near Ladysmith, you can turn off to the Nels Valley road which will take you to the base of the Swartberg Pass, or if you are driving from Knysna, take the road via George, over the Outeniqua Pass directly to Oudtshoorn.

Definitely one of our favourites!

Once you get to Oudtshoorn or join the R328 from Nels Valley, drive towards the Cango Caves. You can explore the Cango Caves which are about 27km from Oudtshoorn or 11km from Nels Valley.

The caves are the spectacular underground wonder of the Klein Karoo.  Situated in a limestone ridge parallel to the well known Swartberg Mountains, you will find the finest dripstone caverns, with their vast halls and towering formations.

There are different tours available from walking to squeezing through the smallest of tunnels – it’s up to you!

Retrace your steps and continue with the R328 up the Swartberg Pass. The Swartberg Pass is the crowning achievement of Thomas Bain, the master pass builder of South Africa, and was built from 1881-1888. If it is raining, bear in mind the road is gravel, but in good condition. The Swartberg Pass is fine for cars, but not trailers.

Near the top of the pass is the turn off for Detour 2E to Gamkaskloof – the descent into the historic settlement of Die Hel – a National Heritage Site – will never be forgotten and will keep your camera clicking.

It takes about 2 hours to get down to Die Hel at Gamkaskloof and with spending some time there, it will be at least 5-6 hours before you get back up. You will probably need to overnight there in the restored, original valley cottages.  Accommodation bookings at: www.diehel.com or phone 023 541 1107 during the day. Alternatively, if you start very early in the morning, you can get down and back in 4 hours with some extra time to look around.

You will see indigenous fynbos, little rivers, birds and flowers, all from a 37km winding road that is probably best driven in a 4×4 and is not suitable for trailers.

History: The earliest inhabitants of the valley were the San Bushmen followed by a group of farmers in the early 1830′s. They lived here in virtual isolation for about 130 years. In 1958, the first car was brought into the valley through the Gamka River gorge. In 1962 a road was built into the valley which facilitated communication with the outside world, and was the main reason for the exodus of the youth. The older folks had to follow.  The last remaining farmer left in 1991, leaving the valley with no permanent residents but with the houses intact.

If you do not go to Gamkaskloof, continue over the pass and at the T-junction, turn left to Prince Albert – one of those unknown secret gems of South Africa. From the historic architecture to the quaint shops; from star gazing to bird watching, this is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable country towns to visit. And the wonderful locals just add to the experience!

• For some quality Karoo views, take the Koppie walk at sunset. You don’t need a permit. The path starts at the top of Cromwell Street, and end in Klip Street. Wear a hat, some good walking shoes, and bring some water.
• Die Wolschuur Mohair Shop on Kerk Street sells 100% mohair hand-woven carpets, blankets, jerseys and other products. They also sell other handcrafted goodies and jewelry.

• On Saturdays, visit the market on the square next to the Fransie Pienaar museum. You can buy homemade pickles, jams, fresh or dried fruit and more
• Go olive tasting at the Swartrivier Olive Farm. Book your tour or tasting with them beforehand on +27 (0)23 5411 917. It’s 5 kms out of Prince Albert on the Kruidfontein Road
• Visit Gay’s Cheese Factoryfor farm fresh milk, yoghurt, cream, amasi & cheese. Tel: +27(0) 23 5411 274 at Upper Kerkstraat
• Visit the old Watermill at the southern entrance of Prince Albert
• Attend the Olive Festival in May

For a small town, there are surprisingly many things to do. We recommend phoning the Tourism office for a list of all the options – including fig farms, wine tasting, 4×4 routes, biking and cheese making. +27 (0) 23 541 1788

After Prince Albert, carry on the R407 to De Rust, via the dramatic Meiringspoort Pass, and then on to the N12 to Oudtshoorn.

The scenery speaks for itself – such diversity!