Centrally situated between Cape Town and Oudtshoorn, the quaint little village of Montagu nestles in the western corner of Kannaland. A unique rural atmosphere distinguishes Montagu as one of the best-preserved late Victorian agricultural villages in the Cape.
Montagu has a number of the finest Cape Dutch houses. Most of these thatched roof houses date from the years 1853 – 1870. It is generally accepted that Joubert House situated in Long Street, built in 1853, is the oldest house in Montagu. In 1983 it was restored to its former glory, and as a section of the Montagu Museum, it depicts the lifestyle of the late 19th century.
Montagu, once known as “Agter Cogman’s Kloof”, lies between the Keisie and Kingna rivers which join at the western extremity of the town. In the 19th century the only exit to the West was through Cogman’s Kloof.
Now Montagu in the heart of Route 62 attracts many visitors who enjoy the scenery and buildings of a bygone era. In Montagu there is a variety of superb overnight accommodation and excellent restaurants. As the mountain Mecca of the Western Cape, Montagu is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
