Between Barrydale and Suurbraak village then Swellendam along the R324, is a lovely mountain pass- the Tradouw Pass.
This is one of Thomas Bain’s masterpieces. Opened in 1873 having been built by a large gang of prisoners, you can still see their quarters.. Heavy rains and floods caused washaways in sections but the modern engineers kept Bain’s stonework and even replanted vegetation where possible so you can appreciate just how spectacular the first build was.
The Tradouw Pass perches 315 metres up, undulating through the folds of the Langeberg mountains for 16kms in a way that reflects Bain’s respect for nature. He applied the logic of river courses and followed the path of least resistance allowing the pass to follow the same course as the Tradouw River in the gorge below.
Leaving Barrydale, the route begins in seriously mountainous terrain with jagged sandstone precipices “looming just inches from your car window.” After 2kms, you will see the old Tollgate.
The road climbs through a narrow gorge into the heart of the Langeberg. There are a number of lookout points with stunning views before the road descends. There are also pools, waterfall and places for an icy swim in crystal clear water.
A beautiful route on tar! The name of the pass is a Khoi word and means ‘Womens Path’.
Joseph Barry Distillers, Barry...
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