BEHIND THE SCENES
This month’s town feature about Montagu was written by resident Marchelle van Zyl, a journalist and tour guide. Turn to p100 to find out why she and many others have decided to make the town home.
How did you end up in Montagu?
My dad worked here as a young man and he always told stories of outings to Poortjieskloof Dam and Cogmanskloof. I visited the town often and once did a story about rock climbing in the area. Local guide and rock climber David Webster took me into Boschkloof, which had recently been reopened to the public. I was hooked and now I’ve been here for three years. I’m still a beginner climber, but I can understand the fascination with the sport. It’s like fishing – the fish and the rock are both just excuses to be in nature! But that’s true for most outdoor sports, I think.
Favourite thing to do in town?
I love all the hiking and cycling trails in and around town. There’s a trail or gravel road for every mood and energy level.
For something less active, I enjoy the art film screenings in the old KWV building, and the cake-and-tea gatherings in the Nature Garden on Tuesday mornings.
Favourite restaurants?
At Die Stal, about 4 km outside town in the Keisie Valley, you can have a real country meal on the stoep of a farmhouse. Then there’s 22 Church Street, where chef Sanel Esterhuyse has a knack for flavour. I often only order starters so I can taste them all!
Best coffee?
BluVines has great coffee and the view is like an extra shot of caffeine. If you’re lucky, the waiters will sing to you! If you want a takeaway coffee, The Pastry Place in Long Street is a good spot to pick up a cup, but you’ll probably leave with more than just coffee…
Tell us about your business.
I have a tourism business called Flying Feet. I bought a bunch of old bicycles and gave them to local artists to paint. I take people on guided town tours or ghost tours on the bikes, or people can rent them and explore on their own. I also offer guided day outings. I love to show Montagu to visitors – it has so many stories, interesting characters and history. The ghost tour is popular. You’ll learn all about the people who never wanted to leave. Ever!
Favourite holiday spot?
Anywhere in the Karoo. I was born in Prince Albert, grew up in Beaufort West, and I often visited my grandmother in Ladismith. I worked on cruise ships for 11 years so there’s also a little salt in my veins. The sea calms me – it’s my second home after the plains.
Travel essentials?
Camera, a book and good coffee.