Barrydale

Description

Barrydale is a charming village nestled at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains situated along the renowned Cape Route 62, on the border of the Overberg and Klein Karoo regions of the Western Cape. The town boasts a variety of excellent natural, cultural, and historical attractions that draw travellers from all over the world. Familiarise yourself with our great range of Barrydale accommodation listed below.

Barrydale boasts some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the world, surrounded by spectacular mountain ranges and a range of diverse fauna and flora. It was named after James Barry, an early settler in the Overberg who was not only a trader, but also a lawyer, agent, auctioneer, deputy sheriff, and commandant of militia. In 1940, the Barrydale Kooperative Wynkelder was formed and farmers were encouraged to plant vineyards and orchards to grow fruit for canning and export. Today, Barrydale has an estimated population of over 3500 permanent residents and is the centre of a prosperous farming district.

Barrydale has a temperate climate of warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, perfect for the growth of fruit trees. There are numerous orchards on the fertile soils of the Tradouw Valley, where one can find trees bearing apricots, figs, cling peaches, and grapes in the summer, and apples, pears, and oranges harvested in winter. In addition, Barrydale is home to wonderful wine cellars and distilleries that produce delicious local wines. Make sure you visit the Barrydale Wine Cellar, Joubert Tradauw Cellar, and the Klein Karoo Wine Route.

The population in Barrydale increases dramatically over the tourist season, where people seek to experience the art and craft displays, including textiles, jewellery, and handcrafted African souvenirs. In order to accommodate the influx of tourists, Barrydale offers a spectacular variety of accommodation, ranging from quaint lodges to cosy B&Bs.

In all its scenic beauty, Barrydale offers a variety of exciting attractions. Visiting the Labyrinth at The Manger, a farm about 15km from Barrydale, is a must. Built in 1998, it is a meditational tool dating back to the Northern European Bronze Age; a space thought to initiate healing and heightened self-awareness. It’s necessary to make an appointment to walk the Labyrinth as it attracts pilgrims from all over the world. Entry is free; however, donations are welcome and go towards the upkeep of the Centre of Rehabilitation of Wildlife at The Manger. Don’t miss the South African Peace Pagoda while here. It is a seven metre tall gold structure, crowned with a crystal and copper umbrella, consecrated by a famous 90-year-old Burmese monk.

Other attractions around Barrydale include Ronnie’s Sex Shop, a farm stall that became world famous as a result of a prank, Barrydale’s heritage garden, Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve, and Warmwaterberg hot springs. The annual Barrydale Spring Festival, held in October, is a major draw card, while The Joseph Barry Tradouw Pass Half Marathon attracts a large number of runners who compete over a 21km course through the pass.

Experience all that Barrydale has to offer by booking a stay at one of our top notch accommodations below.