Du Toitskloof Pass - Western Cape
Du Toitskloof Pass - Western Cape
The Du Toitskloof Pass is a breathtaking mountain pass in the Western Cape, South Africa, connecting Paarl with Worcester via the R101 road. It winds through the Du Toitskloof Mountains, a rugged range that forms part of the greater Cape Fold Belt. The pass, reaching an elevation of 820 metres (2,690 feet) above sea level, offers spectacular views of deep valleys, rocky cliffs, and lush fynbos vegetation, making it one of the most scenic mountain routes in the country.
Originally, travel between Paarl and Worcester was difficult due to the steep and rugged terrain. In 1949, construction of the Du Toitskloof Pass was completed, significantly improving accessibility for motorists. It was a major engineering feat, with winding roads and steep inclines requiring careful navigation. However, in 1988, the Huguenot Tunnel was opened, providing a faster and more direct route through the mountains. Despite this, the old pass remains a popular scenic alternative, especially for those wanting to experience the beauty of the Cape's mountainous landscape.
Facts about the Du Toitskloof Pass:
- Location: Western Cape, South Africa
- Elevation: 820m (2,690 ft)
- Route: R101 (old pass), parallel to the N1 and Huguenot Tunnel
- Length: Approximately 48 km from Paarl to Worcester
- Gradient: Steep sections with sharp curves
- Scenic Views: Panoramic vistas, mountain peaks, and fynbos-covered slopes
- Climate: Can be misty and cold in winter, with occasional snowfall on the peaks
Along the way...
- Hiking and climbing opportunities in the Du Toitskloof Mountains
- Spectacular viewpoints along the pass for photography and picnics
- Historical significance as a key route before the Huguenot Tunnel
- Wildlife and birdwatching, with chances to see Cape sugarbirds and dassies
The Du Toitskloof Pass remains a favourite among road trippers, motorcyclists, and nature lovers, offering a picturesque journey through one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Western Cape.
Accommodation Near Du Toitskloof Pass - Western Cape
Mooi Bly
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Paarl
9.3km from Du Toitskloof Pass - Western CapeMooi Bly offers five well-appointed, charming thatched cottages that can sleep up to six people, situated in a big garden with a swimming pool. They are fully equipped, serviced, have private verandas with barbecue facilities and a magnificent view of the …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
5 Konings Guesthouse
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Paarl
14.4km from Du Toitskloof Pass - Western Cape5 Konings Guesthouse offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Paarl, in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Stay in one of our 8 stylishly decorated, en-suite rooms catering for your comfort and enjoyment. All the rooms are equipped with air conditioning... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Middelplaas Paarl Guesthouse
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Paarl
14.4km from Du Toitskloof Pass - Western CapeMiddelplaas Paarl Guest house is set on a tranquil farm situated within easy reach of the town centre. It is an ideal destination for corporate guests, holidaymakers, wedding guests, school groups, team builders or sports groups. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Val d Or Estate
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Franschhoek
15.1km from Du Toitskloof Pass - Western CapeVal d'Or Estate offers bed and breakfast and self catering accommodation in Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands and Breede River Valley region in the Western Cape. Nestled in the foothills of the magnificent Franschhoek mountains, a few minutes drive... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Heuwelsig Cottages & Franschhoek Camping
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Franschhoek
15.2km from Du Toitskloof Pass - Western CapeHeuwelsig Cottages & Franschhoek Camping offers both self catering accommodation and special sites specifically for motorhomes in Franschhoek. Heuwelsig Cottages is situated on a working wine farm, surrounded by lush vineyard, orchards and scenic... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Petit & Grande Plaisir
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Franschhoek
18.1km from Du Toitskloof Pass - Western CapePetit & Grande Plaisir Cottages provide self catering accommodation in Franschhoek, in the Cape Winelands and Breede River valley region of the Western Cape. We offer 3 self catering options: Petit Plaisir - Freestanding Self-catering cottage. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Los Olivos
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Franschhoek
18.1km from Du Toitskloof Pass - Western CapeLos Olivos luxury self-catering penthouses have one of the best locations in the Franschhoek village. Everything is within walking distance. You can park in our off-street parking and you won’t need your car until the end of your stay. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
22 Van Wijk Street Tourist Accommodation
Room Only / Limited SC Accommodation in Franschhoek
18.1km from Du Toitskloof Pass - Western Cape22 Van Wijk Street Tourism Accommodation provides room only accommodation in Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands and Breede River region in the Western Cape. Four lovely rooms in a pre-1910 house right in the center of Franschhoek. Two Double bed rooms... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Le Ballon Rouge
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Franschhoek
18.2km from Du Toitskloof Pass - Western CapeLe Ballon Rouge Guest House offers bed and breakfast accommodation in the heart of Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands and Breede River Valley region in the Western Cape. Le Ballon Rouge offers 9 stylish and individually decorated rooms and one... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
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- Bain's Kloof Pass - Wellington, Western Cape (11.52km)
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- Paarl Mall - Paarl, Cape Winelands (14.30km)
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- Groot Drakenstein Prison - Franschhoek, Cape Winelands (14.38km)
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- Wellington Wine Harvest Festival - Western Cape (14.46km)
- KWV Brandy Cellar - Paarl, Cape Winelands (14.72km)
- Lynx Wines - Franschhoek, Cape Winelands (14.84km)
- Laborie Lazy Days Market - Paarl, Cape Winelands (15.28km)
- Eikehof Wines - Franschhoek, Cape Winelands (15.63km)
- Tweede Tol Picnic & Camping Site - Bain's Kloof Pass, Western cape (16.36km)
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