Officially Montagu was founded in around 1853. That, at any rate, was the year the village was carved out of the farm Uitvlucht, and given the name Montagu in honour of the previous Colonial Secretary, John Montagu.
Yet it is clear that Dutch farmers had occupied the area since the early 1700s, calling it Cogman's Kloof, and Behind Cogman's Kloof.
It is as beautiful as it is historic. The mountain setting is balm for the soul. The drive in from the Ashton side through Cogman's Kloof must surely be one of the most dramatic in the whole of South Africa; the folded, twisted and contorted landscape is dramatic, and yet quite reassuring too. Any planet that could survive what took place here some 250 million years ago can scarcely be threatened by the mild machinations of human invention.
Nineteenth century architecture, beautifully preserved in many private homes and public buildings is part of the attraction that brings hundreds of thousands of visitors to Montagu each year
The land is rich and fertile, producing wonderful fruit and wines.
But one of the really great attractions is the Hot Spring at Bad Kloof. There are many springs in South Africa, but few have the mineral content that makes this one so popular. People come in search of invigoration and renewal.
If such is your mission, then the Avalon Springs is the place to stay.
Despite its apparent pre-occupation with the past, Montagu is still very much a modern town. A good hospital, committed police force, and an active municipal authority ensure that it is a safe and pleasant living environment.
Montagu West from Kanon Kop showing, in the distance, the split that is the start of Cogman's Kloof.
Hot springs baths at Avalon Springs where the world comes to invigorate and renew.
Montagu is just an hour's drive from the sea at Arniston...
montagumail@compuservices.co.za
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