The Breede River region is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the Western Cape, boasting majestic mountains, breathtaking views and plenty of outdoor activities to satisfy any walk of life. It also happens to be the biggest fruit and wine producing area in the Western Cape and South Africa’s premier racehorse breeding location.
Forming part of the Little Karoo, the Breede River Valley stretches from Gouda in the west to McGregor in the south, Montagu in the east and the Karoo in the north. A semi arid region, the landscape is renowned for its indigenous plant life, including fynbos and proteas. The mountain streams appear to be in stark contrast with the somewhat rugged surroundings in certain areas and the many nature reserves are home to a variety of wildlife.
Worcester is the centre of business and shopping in the Breede River Valley and is one of the largest wine producing regions in the Western Cape. Another major contributor to the wine industry is Robertson, which is also the horse breeding centre of the Cape. Ashton is a small village located at the foot of the Langeberg Mountain range and acts as the fruit processing centre for much of the valley, with the majority of fruit grown in Ceres.
The region is also known for its therapeutic quality, with hot mineral springs located in Montagu and McGregor a haven for artists and craftsmen seeking peace and natural beauty to feed the soul. There is also much historical significance to be found in various towns and villages in the area, particularly Montagu, which is home to over twenty national monuments. Tulbagh boasts a wealth of Cape Dutch architecture, which is prevalent throughout the Breede River Valley.
Situated on the popular Route 62, Montagu is ideally located around 2 hours’ drive from Cape Town. This delightful town in the Western Cape was chosen as “Town of the Year 2002”.
This historic town was founded in 1851 and was named after John Montagu, Colonial Secretary of the Cape Colony. The old world charm and scenic surroundings of Montagu has resulted in a surge of interest among homebuyers.
Interesting rock formation and healing hot mineral springs makes Montagu the inspiring location it is today. The area also hosts bird sanctuaries, nature reserves, museums art galleries and a number of historic homes.
Ashton, famous for its fruit, wine and roses, lies in the Breede River Valley between the Breede River and the Langeberg Mountains, and 10km from the town of Montagu.
Ashton is situated amidst lush vineyards and orchards and hosts two large fruit canneries - therefore known as the capital of the canning industry. Here they produce canned apricots, pears, guavas and mixed fruit that became synonymous with traditional South African desserts.
The weather conditions in Ashton have been described as hot and dry with cold nights. The farmers in these regions have taken full advantage of these conditions to create world-class wines.
McGregor is set just 10 minutes form Robertson in the Breede River Valley on the popular wine route – Route 62. This vibrant village carries the name of the oldest Scottish clan and lies in a valley surrounded by rolling hills, contributing to its magical charm.
In this village - where time stands still - you will still find properties with its original stone irrigation channels dating from the 19th century. This is largely due to the fact that an aesthetics committee drew up a series of guidelines that should be considered when building or renovating in McGregor.
Lying directly on lye lines, McGregor considered a sacred site with natural energy. It is no surprise then that most of the town’s residents are very eccentric characters.
Rawsonville, a largely undiscovered little town, is situated close to Worcester in the Breede River Valley, but its prime location, in the scenic Slanghoek Valley, is quickly turning this unnoticed town into an appealing site for investors.
It is also a great base to explore the 13 wine and brandy cellars within 10km radius from Rawsonville, and also hosts a number of family-run cellars in the town. Being part of the popular Route 62 – known at the longest wine route in the world – also makes Rawsonville a great place to invest in property.
Rawsonville invites you to experience the hospitality and warmth of its people. Here you can enjoy the tranquil surroundings or one of South Africa’s best-kept secrets while trout fishing, hiking or horse riding.
The majestic mountains, fertile valleys, striking vineyards and vast plains is what makes The Breede Valley one of the most scenic regions in the Western Cape.
The Breede Valley has a well-established economy based on strong agricultural, manufacturing and tourism sectors, as well as a well-developed commercial and service sector.
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