The 27km Swartberg Pass is considered one of the most spectacular
mountain passes in the world. An untarred road winds to the summit 1
583 metres above sea level in steep zig-zags and sudden switchbacks,
with breath-taking views at every turn.
The entrance, comeing
from Prince Albert, is through a narrow Cape sandstone kloof where the
eye is drawn upwards by the convoluted rock faces to the sparkling sky
above. Several picnic sites near the river provide tranquil spots to
stop and absorb the peace and splendour.
As you drive on you
gain your first sight of the valleys and peaks of the Swartberg Pass.
The natural characteristics of the Pass are magnificent – as are the
man-made features. This was Thomas Bain's last engineering masterpiece.
His construction philosophy, which has stood the test of time was:
"Good hat and good boots".
Along the way there are relics of an old prison, toll hut, hotel and other interesting historical sites
Hiking in the Swartberg Pass
There are a number of options for hiking in the Swartberg Mountains, from day hikes to a demanding five day hike.
Lindsay of Dennehof Tours
arranges a hiking permit and then drives you into the Swartberg Pass
with a picnic lunch, a bird list and map and you hike back down to
Malva Draai, where beers or soft drinks will be cooling in the river.
Choose between a 9km and an 18km route. Call Lindsay on 082 456 8848
for more information.
PERMITS FOR DAY HIKES available from the
Prince Albert Tourism Association Office 023 5411 366 and the Prince
Albert Info Office at the National Centre.
You must have a permit to hike in the Swartberg Pass.
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