By Gugulethu Tshabalala
From scenic mountain passes and creative culture to country hospitality and unforgettable road trip experiences, Barrydale has officially earned the title of South Africa's best small town.
There are places you visit, and then there are places that leave a lasting impression. Tucked between the Langeberg Mountains and the Klein Karoo along the iconic Route 62, Barrydale is one of those destinations.
Recently crowned South Africa's Best Small Town in the Daily Maverick's Small Town of the Year Awards, Barrydale has gone from being a beloved stopover to a destination in its own right. For road trippers, nature lovers and travellers seeking authentic South African experiences, the accolade simply confirms what many have known for years.
A Journey Along Route 62
Often described as South Africa's answer to Route 66, Route 62 winds through mountain ranges, vineyards and charming country towns, and Barrydale sits right at the heart of it, making the town an ideal base for exploring the Western Cape's hidden gems.
One of the town's greatest attractions is the spectacular Tradouw Pass, a winding mountain road carved through towering rock faces and indigenous vegetation. Whether you're travelling by car or motorcycle, the drive offers breathtaking views around every corner and is widely regarded as one of South Africa's most scenic passes.
For many visitors, arriving in Barrydale feels like stepping into another world, where life slows down, conversations run longer and every café invites you to stay just a little while more.
Why Barrydale Stands Out
The national award recognised towns that excel in more than just beautiful scenery. Judges considered factors including community spirit, cleanliness, safety, municipal services, connectivity and overall quality of life, and Barrydale impressed across the board thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, well-preserved character and vibrant local community.
Unlike many tourist destinations that lose their authenticity over time, Barrydale has managed to hold onto its small-town charm while still embracing visitors from across South Africa and beyond.
A Creative Soul
Creativity flows through Barrydale's streets. Artists, potters, photographers and craftspeople have made the town home, filling it with independent galleries, artisan workshops and unique boutiques. Visitors can browse handcrafted ceramics, local artwork and woven textiles while chatting to the makers themselves, and that creative energy adds another layer to the visit, ensuring there is always something new to discover.
A Destination for Food Lovers
Barrydale's food scene punches well above its weight. Whether you're stopping for breakfast before tackling Tradouw Pass, enjoying a relaxed lunch under shady trees or ending the day with Karoo-inspired cuisine, the town offers something for every palate. Local cafés and restaurants celebrate regional ingredients, homemade baking and farm-to-table dining, while quirky coffee shops and famous milkshake stops have become institutions along Route 62. It's the kind of place where meals are never rushed and hospitality comes naturally.
Nature at Your Doorstep
Adventure begins the moment you leave the main street. The surrounding mountains offer hiking and mountain biking trails, while nearby nature reserves showcase the incredible biodiversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom. Spring transforms the landscape into a colourful display of wildflowers, and every season brings its own opportunities for photography, birdwatching and scenic drives, whether you're chasing adventure or simply tranquillity.
More Than a Weekend Escape
Barrydale is increasingly attracting people looking for a different way of life. Remote workers, retirees and families are discovering the appeal of a town where neighbours know each other, traffic is virtually non-existent and nature is never far away. With reliable connectivity, growing tourism and a local economy built around agriculture, hospitality and the arts, Barrydale proves that small-town living doesn't have to mean sacrificing modern conveniences.
Planning Your Visit
Barrydale sits comfortably within reach of several major Western Cape hubs, which is part of what makes it such a natural stop on a longer road trip.
The town makes an excellent overnight stop on a Route 62 road trip, or a peaceful weekend escape for anyone wanting to disconnect from city life. Drive the spectacular Tradouw Pass, browse the local galleries and artisan shops, enjoy the locally produced wines and Karoo cuisine, and support the independent cafés and farm stalls along the way. Better still, stay the night. Barrydale after the day-trippers have left is a different, quieter kind of beautiful.
XploreZA Travel Tip
If you're travelling along Route 62, don't rush through Barrydale. Spend the night, xplore on foot, meet the locals and discover why this remarkable town has earned the title of South Africa's best small town.
