Rock Climbing in Montagu
Montagu is widely regarded as one of the leading rock climbing destinations in the Western Cape, offering a diverse range of routes across striking sandstone formations.
From beginner-friendly climbs to more technical and demanding routes, the area caters to all levels — whether you’re starting out or looking to push your limits.
Beyond the crags
Montagu offers more than just climbing, with wine farms, markets and outdoor experiences to enjoy at a slower pace.
The Crags of Montagu
How To Get There
From Cape Town, take the N1 north towards Worcester. About 20 kilometres after the Du Toit’s Kloof Pass you will reach the Shell Ultra City Garage, an ideal meeting and breakfast spot. After the Ultra City, turn right into Worcester at the second set of traffic lights. At the main street, the third set of lights, turn left, then right again at the next set where there is a sign for Robertson and Montagu. From here, continue along the R62 through Robertson and Ashton to Montagu.
Access
Please adhere to all rules and regulations and be courteous at all times. Park considerately and avoid blocking access. Take all litter with you, even if it is not yours. This includes finger tape and cigarette butts. If you need to use the toilet, please do so well away from water sources, paths and crags. We are responsible for protecting access to these areas. Further access information can be found under the various crags. Most crags in Montagu are open to climb without permission or a permit, except for The Farm on R62 and Bosch Kloof.
The Farm on R62
This is a privately owned farm (owned by climbers), and there is no charge to climb in this area, but you still need to email the owners (Email), so they know who is on the farm on any given day. You will receive an automated answer with the gate lock combination, which allows you to enter.
Blue Mountain Adventures
Bosch Kloof crags are very popular and include – Bosch Crag, Ramset Crag, Forest Crag, Hilti Crag, Twin Fins Crag, Skull Crag and Matrix Crag. Permits are required for limited access to Bosch Kloof. This permit entitles the permit holder and listed group members limited access to Bosch Kloof. Get your Bosch Kloof permit here
Things to do in Montagu
Shops and Restaurants
Montagu is a small country village with a slightly more contemporary edge. It offers a good selection of shops and well-stocked supermarkets, including a clean Spar and a Tops liquor store, so you will find everything you need for a longer stay.
There are also a number of good restaurants, coffee shops and takeaway spots. On Saturday mornings, a popular farmers and craft market takes place on Bath Street, where you can pick up fresh food and local goods.
You will also find a pharmacy, banks and ATMs for everyday essentials.
Rest Days
There is plenty to do in Montagu on a rest day. The surrounding mountains offer a range of hiking trails, but if that feels like too much, a slower day exploring the wine farms is always a good option. There are dozens of excellent wineries within a 30-kilometre radius.
The hot springs at Avalon Springs are worth a visit, although they can get busy. There are also a few local craft spots to explore, or you can take a tractor ride up the back of Arangieskop, ending with a generous potjiekos lunch.
For more ideas, stop by the information centre on Bath Street. Or simply stay put and enjoy the quiet with a good book.
Legoland
By far the most popular crag in Montagu. Zero walk-in and lots of good routes in the easier grades. Great for beginners and very child friendly.
The Steeple
20 min walk from De Bos. Afternoon shade. Very family friendly base (you could even bring a picnic).
Bosch Crag
A beautiful, vertical chocolate brown wall with a bunch of uber-classic routes.
About your guide.
Tony Lourens has been involved in climbing and mountaineering for over 40 years and has climbed, trekked and guided extensively in many countries around the world. He is passionate about all things climbing and loves to explore new places and climb in as many different areas as possible. Tony has been a guide and instructor in mountaineering, climbing and trekking since 1992 and has guided numerous nationalities from around the world, as well as many locals, and enjoys a very high success rate and a 100% safety record.
Further, Tony has been involved in publishing for nearly 20 years and has written and published a number of climbing and walking/scrambling guidebooks to many areas in the Western Cape, the Drakensberg and Namibia, and also authored The Complete Climbing Manual, which sold world wide in five different languages. He is also the publisher and editor of SA Mountain Magazine, South Africa’s only dedicated mountaineering and climbing magazine.
Blue Mountain Adventures
Guaranteeing the best experiences in the mountains and ensuring your safety at all times.
Guiding
Blue Mountain Adventures is based in Montagu and Cape Town and will show you the best climbing or hiking Montagu has to offer — Sport or Trad climbing.
Of course we are also available to guide you anywhere in South Africa, if you are planning a climbing trip to other areas. Our experience is extensive and we are ready and excited to share with you the wonderful and incredibly beautiful places here in our own country and further afield.We also offer climbing courses from beginner to advanced.
Gear Rental
We have all the gear you may need for a guided trip: shoes, harness, helmet, chalkbag, etc. And we supply all the other necessary equipment as part of the package.
- Phone: 082 550 6819
- Learn More
Intaba Tours
Founded by Jan Fischer, Intaba creates tailor-made tours for the discerning traveller in and around South Africa. They strive to make your adventure dreams a reality, with your comfort and safety a top priority.
- Phone: 084 705 3272
- Learn More
Western Cape Rock
All information and more is available in Western Cape Rock — A Guide to Sport Climbing in the Western Cape, South Africa, by Tony Lourens, published in 2015 by Blue Mountain Publishers.
More information on Climbing Guidebooks by Tony Lourens can be found from the link below.
Western Cape Rock is available to purchase at De Bos.
Segments in and around Montagu
Whether you're cycling, hiking, running, or rock climbing, don't forget to check out Strava for all the exciting segments and routes in and around Montague!