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About Swartberg Pass

Climbing 1000 metres in 12 kilometres, the Swartberg Pass is one of the steepest passes in South Africa.

Running between Prince Albert in the north and Oudtshoorn in the south, the route offers spectacular views over the Little and Great Karoo.

The road is not tarred and can be tricky in wet weather but you certainly don’t need a big 4x4 for the pass.

Along with striking warped and twisted rock formations and interesting plant life, you will see some amazing drystone work supporting the picturesque hairpin bends.

Master pass engineer Thomas Baines and his team of convict labourers took five years to build it in the late 1800s. Today it is a National Monument and largely unchanged.

If you really fancy a challenge you could crank you way on the Swartberg Pass Half Marathon. The race route heads out of Prince Albert and into the Swartberg Pass, with sheer rock on both sides.

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Things to do in Prince Albert

Reviews for Swartberg Pass

14 reviews Reviews of

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Amanda Smit
08 January 2017

Asemrowend mooi!!!!!

Vicky Geralis
14 June 2016

Awesome

Vicky Geralis
14 June 2016

Awesome

Bernard Scribante
05 January 2016

Awsome!

Ras van der Merwe
31 December 2015

The scenery is one of a kind.

Caroline Taylor
20 October 2015

Stunning! Nothing like it!

Martie Jelliman
11 October 2015

Whow, it was an experience, beautiful and for all that has not done it, a must.

Sumadri Swart
08 October 2015

Be sure to turn off and head to the Hell. I will most definitely be returning as soon as I can.

Thys van der Merwe
04 May 2015

Panoramic views

Gerhard Rauscher
11 February 2015

Great!

Eddie Watson
29 January 2015

Stunning experience but not for the fainthearted.

Davina Mortlock
27 December 2014

Beautiful pass. Worth doing.

Ian Oertel
29 October 2014

Breathtaking in both scenery and precipices.

Cindy Jordaan
26 December 2013

One of the most beautifull places in SA.

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Accommodation near Swartberg Pass

Amy's Place

5 Reviews
Sleeps 6 in 3 rooms

Amy’s Place is a comfortable haven with ample space for up to six guests. In keeping with the Victorian feel of Prince Albert the rooms...
R2100
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Prince Albert Garden Guest Ho...

8 Reviews
Sleeps 6 in 3 rooms

This tranquil garden courtyard oasis has been built around an historic farmhouse. We are situated...
R1050
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Karoo Feels

Sleeps 4 in 2 rooms

Karoo Feels is a self-catering garden cottage situated on the outskirts of town. A perfect place to relax and rejuvenate.Karoo Feels...
R1300
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Nieuweschuur

Sleeps 2 in 1 room

Nieuweschuur is a typical Karoostyle barn with a luxury loft apartment specifically designed and built to accommodate up to two guests...
R3576
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The Lemon Tree

Sleeps 16 in 3 rooms

The Lemon Tree offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a shared lounge and a garden. Boasting family...
R1320
Avg per night for 2 guests

The Olive House

Sleeps 15 in 7 rooms

Step into a timeless world where the sky dances with stars and the wind whispers its secrets. Every step you take through the Olive House...
R3800
Avg per night for 2 guests

Swartberg Pass Map

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Swartberg Pass is 20.3km from the centre of Prince Albert , the nearest airport 74.9km (George Airport).
*Distances are shown as the crow flies and not necessarily the actual travelling

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