The Water Source in Keurkloof
This picturesque 3km‑long kloof that joins the Cogmans Kloof Pass is a well known local landmark. A strong spring a kilometre up the kloof was a major source of drinking water for both the towns of Montagu and Ashton during the early 1900s. The water was captured in a small storage dam and piped to the two small towns. The system was upgraded in 1939, however, the spring’s importance was later overtaken by other water sources that were needed to meet the requirements of the district’s growing population.
Keurkloof was once a favourite recreation area for Montagu residents, but in recent decades the water from the spring has diminished. The picnic area was closed and the kloof is reverting to its former natural state.
Hiking and Rock Climbing, two of Montagu’s great attractions
In the years since the early 1990s, Montagu has become a rock‑climbing mecca, attracting local and international climbers. Many of the best climbs, including routes that range from easy to among the most difficult rock climbs in the country, are up the sandstone crags of Cogmans Kloof and adjoining
Keurkloof. Easy access from the road, an untamed wilderness area and breathtaking mountain scenery are drawcards for rock climbers from all over the country and the world. Cogmans Kloof and the surrounding mountains and kloofs also boast many scenic hiking trails.
Scenic Trails
The Cogmans Kloof hiking trail is just over 12km long and tracks a circular path on the north‑eastern slopes of the gorge. It offers walkers superb views of the surrounding cliffs and their amazingly contorted rock strata. The Aasvoёlkrans hiking trail is just over 3km long and can be completed in under two hours. It climbs steeply to a point overlooking the north side of the kloof, with fine views of Fort Sidney and Bain’s tunnel.
