Things to do in Montagu for R50

Local newspaper editor Mareletta Mundey was recently asked to compile a list of 10 things one can do in Montagu for R50 or less.

She accepted that challenge, but decided to take it one step further. She created a list of FIFTY items of things to do in and around Montagu that cost R50. Enjoy:

1. Enjoy the various hikes that the amazing Montagu Mountains offer. There is something for everyone, from a short "Lovers Walk" (free) to a challenging Bloupunt hike (permits available at the Montagu Mountain Reserve)
2. Visit the Ibis tree and spend some good bird watching and photography time on the special deck at the Leidam - Free
3. Visit the Montagu Village Market every Saturday from 8:30 until 12:30. Entrance is free, just bring your shopping bag and some money to spend. You will be surprised how much you can buy, fresh and delicious, for only R50
4. Visit Guano Caves. For a day visit to the Animal Farm and Bunny Farm, adults pay only R30 and children under 12 - R20
5. Take a trip on the CapeDry Tractor among the orchards and sundried fruit at La Providence Dried Fruit Farm, every Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 to 12:00 - Free
6. Browse the amazing Montagu Bookshop in Bath Street for classics and spend time among "old friends" - if you are a book lover - while chatting to the owner, Jo Prentice, who has a passion for books - Free
7. Enjoy live music at Mulligan's Irish Pub and Grill every first and last Saturday of the month with local talent, James Mundey and Alf Boyley - Free
8. Enjoy the latest Art Exhibition in the KWV Gallery
9. Visit the Montagu Museum and Joubert Huis for a day of history and heritage, learn about the local plants and herbs - all utilised for every possible ailment. Entrance Free (donations welcome)
10. Visit the beautiful Montagu Nature Garden - only R5 per person (donations welcome)
11. Enjoy live music every Sunday at Kloof Padstal - Free
12. Kom hekel saam met die Locals every Tuesday at Die Boord/The Orchard (10:00) - Free
13. Visit local galleries and meet the artists - Like Hicks Gallery and Ibis Gallery - Free
14. Indulge your antique fantasies at Penny Farthing Antiques (cnr. Long and Rose Street) - To look and dream are free (but do bring some money to take home a treasure)
15. Do a Brandy Tasting and Cellar Tour at Kingna Distillery - amazing potstill brandy and conversations with the Brandy Master - Free
16. Visit Langhoogte Farm-Two Dam Sustainable Trout Farm for a lovely lesson in sustainable living and taste some delicious trout. Contact Vivian at Tel: 023 614 1517. Entrance Free
17. Bring the kids to enjoy the MTB track at Die Kloof Padstal, or let them loose in the play park and wet their feet in the river while under relaxed adult supervision (this does not mean the grown-ups can't enjoy a glass of local wine (drop a donation in the honesty box)
18. Go for a day drive and fishing at the Poortjieskloof Dam. Get your permit at the gate
19. Let the kids loose at Ashton Kelder - the play park will keep them busy, while for the adults:
Don't miss the special "festive" pairing or an indulgent Chocolate and Wine pairing.
On a hot day, watch the kids play while drinking a special Ashton Wine Blend on Ice - a jug for only R35
20. Experience the poetry of 100% cotton percale bedding with exquisite embroidery: Visit the Turning Leaves showroom Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6pm- 6 Hospital Street, Montagu (Tel: 023 614 1123). Entrance free
21. Experience the new Kalkveld tasting room at Zandvliet - try their Clemengold and wine pairing.
22. Taste some olives, olive oil and tapenade at Mirihof
23. Look out for the latest programme of weekend entertainment at Karoo Saloon - enjoy a peaceful Sunday light lunch and some acoustic music. Cover charge only R30
24. Take full advantage of all the cycle routes around our towns, some more challenging than others
25. Visit Montagu Nursery for all those garden treasures, or plan a special gardening weekend
26. Grab your camera and hit the streets of Montagu : you will be amazed at all the architectural wonders, roses, gardens and interesting people that make for great photography
27. Take a photo at the Cat Crossing in Bath Street
28. Taste the local wine and brandy offerings at Platform 62, Ashton
29. Let the kids meet the resident chickens, chicks and Freddie the Potbelly Pig at Platform 62. Also make use of the secure kiddies play area
30. Rent your favourite movie at Montagu Movie Galaxy for a perfect holiday break
31. Blend your own bottle of wine at Excelsior Wine Cellar (R55 - you take home your own creation)
32. Take a trip on the Viljoensdrift boat on the Breede River
33. Bring the kids for a sunny lunch or a run around the orchard at Die Boord
34. Do a tea tasting at Rambling Rose
36. Meet the local Montagu Arts Association and some local artists @Station
37. Enjoy the Art Deco interior of Montagu Country Hotel and have something cold to drink in the beautiful garden
38. Take the kids for their own juice pairing at Van Loveren, while the adults can pick and choose among the interesting wine pairings
39. Offer to walk a SPCA dog, making a new four-legged friend while enjoying nature and fresh air
40. Visit Avalon Springs on a Saturday for live entertainment with Forest - just outside the Coffee Bar. Have a good cuppa while you listen to good music
41. Take a family hike up Aasvo‰lkrans for a lovely view over our Valley - Free
42. Meet a Real Farmer with a Red Beard at Farmer Redbeard. Many authentic experiences. Just give him a call and book yours (Tel: 023 615 1204)
43. Take a romantic walk on Lovers Walk
44. Follow the Longest Wine Route all along Route 62
45. Make time for an "out of this world" milkshake at Diesel and Cream, Barrydale
46. While visiting Diesel and Cream, use the photo opportunities with some classic cars, old world diners and so much more
47. A visit to Birds Paradise in Robertson is always a favourite for the whole family
48. Make time and an appointment to meet some Alpacas up close and personal (Janet, Tel: 083 682 3828)
49. Visit Anni Krulkop's Pink Krulkop Caravan just outside Montagu in the Keisie Valley. Let her share her crochet art with you
50. Take a drive out to the Donkey Sanctuary in McGregor. Entrance Free, but do support the donkeys with your donations.