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Historic road · George, Cabo Ocidental
Montagu Pass
1847 dirt road over the Outeniqua Mountains, built by prisoners, with stone walls and an arched bridge over the Keur River.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Montagu Pass
Montagu Pass was opened between 1844 and 1847 by about 250 prisoners, under the direction of engineer Henry Fancourt White, to link George to the interior across the Outeniqua Mountains. It was named for John Montagu, the Cape colonial secretary, who inaugurated it. The crossing that used to take three days via the old Cradock Pass became a matter of a few hours by wagon.
The road remains unpaved and is a provincial heritage monument. Along the route are the original stone arched bridge over the Keur River and bends with Afrikaans names used by the teamsters. From the top you can see the George valley and, on a clear day, the sea.
Running alongside Montagu is the modern Outeniqua Pass (N9/N12), opened in 1951, and the old railway runs beneath it. Montagu ends in the village of Herold, from where you return via the paved road.
The climb is narrow, with single-lane stretches, and becomes slippery after heavy rain.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours, round trip.
Best time
On a dry, clear day. After heavy rain the road may be damaged; check conditions with the George information centre.
How to get there
The start is at George’s northern exit, after the Blanco suburb, about 8 km from the centre. By car only; a standard car can pass in dry conditions.
Tip
Stop at the Keur River bridge to see the stone construction. Return via the paved Outeniqua Pass to view the range from the other side.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Montagu Pass
When was Montagu Pass built?
Between 1844 and 1847, built by about 250 prisoners.
Is Montagu Pass paved?
No, it’s unpaved. A standard car can pass in dry conditions.
Where does Montagu Pass start?
At George’s northern exit, about 8 km from the centre, and it ends in the village of Herold.