17 Jul Things to Do in Barrydale
Are you planning a trip to Barrydale and not sure what to put on your itinerary? Absolutely Wild has put together a comprehensive list of fun, family-friendly (and not so family-friendly) things to do in Barrydale and along the R62. The list includes hikes, restaurants, wine farms, and more eccentric attractions. Barrydale is tucked between the Langeberg Mountains and Klein Karoo, so there is a variety of places ready to be explored.
Tradouw’s Pass
This is a 16-kilometre scenic drive between Swellendam and Barrydale. It boasts an altitude range of 219 metres through some of the most gorgeous and rugged scenery in the country. Locals say the light is exquisite with a spectacular view of the mountains. It takes 1 to 2 hours, and you can stop and view Khoisan paintings (and maybe some baboons!) on the drive.
Ronnies’ Sex Shop
Ronnie’s Sex Shop is one of the few not-so-family-friendly things to do in Barrydale. It’s infamous for its…ceiling decor– numerous varieties of bras from women all over the world. They’re known for their boozy milkshakes, including peanut butter and jack, banana and rum, coffee and rum, Turkish delight and vodka, and lime and Jagermeister.
The story goes that Ronnie was just about to open his shop when his friends painted the word sex on his wall. Ronnie thought this was hilarious, too, and so pivoted to create the now-adored bar, Ronnie’s Sex Shop.
Hardys’ Memories of African Art and Curios
Last we heard, this shop is still run by a German who relocated to Africa to explore his passion for our culture and art. He’s a sweet old man happy to walk you through the history of any item. Some of the things he sells include African jewellery, and bongo drums, and has many stories to tell about his traverses around the continent.
Diesel and Creme
Kids love Diesel and Creme. They have a truly interesting set-up, using old cars and an arcade aesthetic to create an atmospheric American diner experience. They serve some of the best milkshakes (freakshakes?) in the country. For instance, they don’t just serve any old chocolate milkshake. Chocolate cake or brownie will be piled on top along with chuckles, with melted chocolate around the rim.
Tradouw Quads
This company’s website says Tradouw Quads offers quadbike tours for people aged between 2 and 90! You’re welcome to bring your own bike or rent one from then. Their trails cover both the Klein Karoo and Tradouw’s Pass. Some of the quad bike tours follow the trails of the original peoples and the pioneers of our historic valley.
Karoo Saloon
Karoo Saloon is one of Barrydale’s favourite nightlife attractions. There’s a shallow reservoir for kids to swim in and they serve cocktails. They also enlist local musicians to play live music. Recently, they hired Aston Wylie, who especially resembles Michael Buble.
Hiking
Absolutely Wild offers a range of hiking and cycling routes on the farm. It’s a fun way to enjoy sunny afternoons while glamping. We also host a variety of animals on our farm.
Barrydale has so much to offer! Come visit us and have the adventure of a lifetime in beautiful Barrydale.