Travel Route 62 in South Africa

How can we explain this indefinable mystery unique to Africa, this unparalleled brilliance of the air? Perhaps it is due to African legends, the presence of felines, the territe of the earth, the intensely fiery sunsets? Whatever the case, travelers find themselves fascinated to the point that they generally return. I propose that we explore a land in South Africa by following a route, Route 62. This is reminiscent of the legendary Route 66 between Chicago and Santa Monica. If you look closer, you will notice that there is a similarity even down to the logo itself. It is the same concept that is adopted for this 850 km itinerary between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.

However, do not confuse Route 62 with the Garden Road that runs along the coast. The former goes inland and is more authentic. It winds through the vineyards of Robertson, the Sanbona reserves, the Langeberg mountains, or the Far West landscapes with its succulents. Visit between September and December to enjoy a pristine blue sky above these majestic open spaces.

Leaving Cape Town behind, I was amazed to discover Dutch houses with stepped gables amidst lush nature. The contrast was striking for someone from the Netherlands accustomed to bel étage houses in dense cities! Why did the Dutch decide to establish farms in this region? The Boers settled here because the land was fertile. Above all, it was essential to produce food supplies for the ships heading to India!

This is reminiscent of the legendary Route 66 between Chicago and Santa Monica.

South Africa in a few dates...

• 1497: Vasco de Gama crosses the Cape of Good Hope
• 19th century: Boer Wars and victory of the English
• 1961: birth of the Republic of South Africa
• February 1991: end of apartheid
• 1994: Nelson Mandela's victory in the presidential elections

The symbol of South Africa? The king protea, a flower with pink petals and a white heart.

The Huguenots following the Edict of Nantes and its revocation planted vineyards and introduced French methods of viticulture. Consequently, it is not unusual to encounter names with familiar sounds: la Motte, de Villiers... Do not hesitate to stop at Stellenbosch, a typically Cape Dutch village that boasts a prestigious university. The small town with pedestrian streets has an incredible charm with its art galleries and its nonchalance. On the terrace of a restaurant, you will enjoy a bredie, a specialty of meat and vegetables. The region includes 300 estates so much so that you will be spoiled for choice for tasting. I invite you to follow me to Franschoek, literally the corner of the French. By boarding a tram, you will be able to reach estates where you will taste the wines.

Boschendal, whose farm dates back to 1685, is nestled in an idyllic setting and also boasts a rose garden! Here you will have the opportunity to have a picnic around a small bottle! Lovers of wildlife and flora, this place at the foot of Simonsberg hill is likely to please you. The Babylonstoren estate, purchased by a media magnate and a former editor-in-chief of Elle Decoration, is sumptuous.

The French landscaper Taravella has added his touch. The couple has managed to blend tradition with modernity. Indeed, there was a vegetable and fruit garden reminiscent of the one from the East India Company in the 17th century. You will wander through secret paths, a labyrinth, all bordered by 7000 clivias, prickly pears, Japanese plum trees... To top it off, the Green House Café offers delicious ice cream, it’s truly enchanting.

For those who have time locally, book your spot for Afrikaburn. This temporary event occurring in the Karoo desert was imported from Nevada. You will initiate this incredible experience by striking your gong. Only then will you forget your Western lifestyle for a week to live within your tribe. Being a spot in the middle of the desert, the some 9500 inhabitants coming from all walks of life have organized themselves. Free from material contingencies, you will reconnect with the elements, and become more available to others. At the end of the week, the burners set fire to their ephemeral sculpture they have created, and it’s a magical moment. That's why if you're in search of lost sensations, let yourself be tempted!

Ronnie’s Sex Shop. Despite what the name might suggest, it is indeed a pub. Interested in learning more about this institution on route 62? Originally, Ronald acquired a small farm where he intended to grow vegetables and fruits. The cottage, located on a remote part of the road, turned out to be unprofitable. Friends added the word Sex to the name of the place without his knowledge.

Faced with the sudden influx of customers, they suggested he create a pub there. Initially not fond of the joke, Ronald joyfully accepts the prospect, and the venture is launched! The place is a must-visit stop for bikers, backpackers, or even tourists looking to get off the beaten path. PS: order a cold beer, a quick meal but pay close attention; the spectacle is as much the people who stop by as the setting itself!

Before reaching the city of Oudtshoorn, make a stop at the Cango Caves, you won’t regret it. These limestone formations at the foot of the Zwartberg mountains date back to the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods. Want to play spelunker? Adventure tours are offered in the 4 km long galleries. You will be accompanied on this journey through time and space by a competent and passionate guide. He will teach you geology, show you the cave paintings. You will move through a world of supernatural dimensions, with dazzling colors… You will feel like you are entering into the belly of the Earth. In fact, visitors flock not only from all over the country but also from around the world.    

These limestone formations at the foot of the Zwartberg mountains date from the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods.

Oudtshoorn, the capital of the Little Karoo, will delight you. It blends Cape Dutch style with Art Nouveau and Renaissance styles. On that note, you just need to stroll down Baron van Rheede street to enjoy this eclecticism. What made this town wealthy is the ostrich feather, highly sought after by Londoners during the Belle Epoque. Here, you will have the opportunity to visit an ostrich farm. Did you know? The ostrich is a bird that does not fly! Moreover, it is the fastest biped, reaching speeds of 70 km/h. With a bit of luck, you might witness… an ostrich race. Indeed, one can ride an ostrich. It’s a spectacle that is certainly biting. Those wishing to bring back a souvenir should head towards the large and magnificent ostrich eggs…

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