9-11 August 2024
Montagu Trail Festival: A Trail Runner's Dream
In the heart of the Western Cape’s Klein Karoo, Montagu is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
This charming town, with its historic architecture and breathtaking landscapes, serves as the perfect backdrop for the Montagu Trail Festival—a new, exhilarating 3-day trail running event that promised to challenge and inspire runners of all levels.
Our base camp for the festival, De Bos, offers not only accommodation but also a unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. Chucky and I felt like we had arrived home as we settled into our familiar accommodation, except this time we had a couple room instead of sharing a dorm with our hiking mates.
Check out our Bloupunt & Cogman’skloof hike.
Welcome to Montague
Montagu is a town steeped in history and surrounded by rugged mountains and lush valleys. Known for its hot springs, historic buildings, and vibrant community, Montagu offers an escape from the stress of city life. The town is a gateway to the Klein Karoo, a semi-desert region known for its unique flora and fauna, dramatic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
A Brief History
Montagu was established in 1851 and named after John Montagu, the then-Colonial Secretary of the Cape Colony. The town quickly became a hub for agriculture, with vineyards, orchards, and farms dotting the landscape. The Victorian architecture and historic buildings give Montagu a timeless charm that attracts visitors from far and wide.
Natural Beauty
The surrounding area is an outdoor paradise. The towering peaks of the Langeberg and Riviersonderend mountain ranges provide a stunning backdrop for hiking, rock climbing, and trail running. The famous Montagu Hot Springs offer a relaxing way to unwind after a day of outdoor activities, with naturally heated mineral-rich waters that are said to have therapeutic properties.
De Bos: Base Camp
De Bos is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience. Situated on a working farm, De Bos offers a range of accommodations, from charming cottages to campsites under the stars. With its tranquil setting, lush gardens, and stunning views, De Bos provided the perfect base camp for the Montagu Trail Festival.
Accommodation Options
Whether you’re looking for a cozy cottage, a spacious campsite, or a unique safari tent, De Bos has something to suit every taste and budget. The cottages are equipped with modern amenities while retaining their rustic charm, providing a comfortable and inviting space to relax after a day on the trails.
Farm Life
De Bos is a working farm, offering guests the opportunity to experience life on a farm firsthand. The property is home to a variety of animals, including horses, goats, and chickens, and guests are welcome to explore the farm and its surroundings. The farm’s gardens are a peaceful oasis, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection.
Community Atmosphere
One of the highlights of staying at De Bos is the sense of community that permeates the property. Guests are encouraged to gather around the communal fire pit in the evenings, sharing stories and experiences with fellow runners and travellers. The warm and welcoming atmosphere makes De Bos feel like a home away from home.
The Montagu Trail Festival: A New Adventure
The Montagu Trail Festival is an exciting addition to the trail running calendar, offering a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Montagu while pushing your limits on the trails. The festival is designed to cater to runners of all abilities, with a range of distances and challenges to choose from.
Day 1: The Prologue
The festival kicked off with a prologue event—a 5km ‘fun’ run designed to get your adrenaline pumping and give you a taste of what’s to come. This evening run took us through the heart of Montagu, with the town’s historic buildings and stunning mountain backdrop setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend.
Day 2: The Mountain Stage
Day two of the festival was all about the mountains. I, yes, I have to take responsibility for choosing the toughest option, viz. ‘Montague Bruise’. They were not kidding when they said ‘Bruise’. Thanks Bill!
This challenging stage took us deep into the rugged terrain of the Langeberg Mountains, with steep climbs, technical descents, and breathtaking views at every turn. The trail was a true test of endurance and skill, but rewarded us with unparalleled vistas and a profound sense of achievement.
The marked trail was 30km but we, when I say ‘we’, I mean ‘me’ got lost a few times so we ended up running 35kms over pretty technical terrain. Not going to lie. I loved every minute of it. Except for the many minutes I hated it and for the time I bought some land. The hardest part was scrambling up a mountain with 10 kms to go, while people splashed in the hot spa right next door at Avalon Springs.
But…the aid stations were vibey and the sweepers were fantastic! Chucky and I finished 6 plus hours later, still smiling! Beautiful route. Tough. Technical. But beautiful.
Day 3: The Valley Stage
The final day of the festival saw us tackling the Valley Stage, a slightly gentler but equally rewarding course that wound through the lush valleys surrounding Montagu. The fynbos was magnificent.
This 14 km stage started with a relentless climb followed by some fast and flat trails through the valley allowing us to soak in the beauty of the Klein Karoo and reflect on the achievements of the weekend.
A Festival for all
The Montagu Trail Festival was designed to be inclusive and welcoming, with a range of distances and categories to suit all levels of experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or new to the sport, there’s a race for you. The festival also offers a range of activities and entertainment for non-runners, making it a fun and engaging event for the whole family.
Beyond the Trails
While the Montagu Trail Festival is the main attraction, Montagu itself offers a wealth of activities and attractions to explore during your stay. From rock climbing to exploring the town’s historic sites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Culinary Delights
Montagu boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with a range of restaurants and cafes serving up delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re craving traditional South African fare or international cuisine, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds.
Rock Climbing and Adventure
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Montagu is a rock climber’s paradise. The surrounding cliffs and crags offer a wide range of climbing routes, from beginner-friendly climbs to challenging technical ascents. Several local climbing schools and guides offer lessons and tours for climbers of all abilities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
In addition to rock climbing, Montagu offers a range of adventure activities, including abseiling, mountain biking, and horse riding. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or trying something new, Montagu’s diverse landscape provides the perfect playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
Montagu’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved architecture and cultural sites. Take a stroll through the town’s historic center, where you’ll find a charming collection of Victorian and Edwardian buildings, many of which have been lovingly restored.
Visit the Montagu Museum, housed in a beautiful old mission church, to learn more about the town’s history and heritage. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past, with exhibits on local culture, geology, and archaeology.
Relaxation and Wellness
After a weekend of trail running and adventure, Montagu offers plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind. The town’s famous hot springs provide a soothing retreat, with mineral-rich waters that are perfect for soaking tired muscles. Several local spas offer a range of treatments and therapies, from massages to facials, providing a rejuvenating experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Preparing for the Montagu Trail Festival
Whether you’re a seasoned trail runner or new to the sport, preparing for a multi-stage trail run requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your festival experience:
Training Tips
- Build Endurance: The Montagu Trail Festival features challenging terrain and varying distances, so it’s important to build your endurance through regular long runs and trail-specific training.
- Focus on Technique: Trail running requires a different set of skills than road running, so practice technical trails, uphill and downhill running, and uneven terrain to improve your agility and confidence.
- Incorporate Cross-Training: Strength training, yoga, and flexibility exercises can help prevent injuries and improve overall performance. Consider incorporating cross-training into your routine to enhance your trail running abilities.
- Rest and Recovery: Allow time for rest and recovery in your training schedule. Adequate rest helps prevent overuse injuries and ensures you’re in peak condition for the festival.
Packing Essentials
- Trail Running Gear: Invest in high-quality trail running shoes, moisture-wicking clothing, and a hydration pack or water bottle. Consider the weather and terrain when packing your gear.
- Nutrition and Hydration: Bring energy gels, bars, and electrolyte drinks to fuel your runs and stay hydrated. Plan your nutrition strategy in advance to ensure you have enough energy for each stage.
- Safety Equipment: Carry a basic first aid kit, a whistle, and a headlamp in case of emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the festival’s safety guidelines and procedures.
- Comfort and Recovery: Pack comfortable clothing and recovery tools, such as foam rollers and compression garments, to aid in post-run recovery.
With thanks!
The Montagu Trail Festival was an unforgettable experience, combining the thrill of trail running with the beauty and charm of Montagu.
Whether you’re chasing personal bests, exploring new trails, or simply enjoying the camaraderie of fellow runners, the festival offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and challenge yourself in one of South Africa’s most stunning locations.
As you lace up your trail shoes and prepare to embark on this exciting adventure, take a moment to appreciate the journey ahead. From the rugged mountains to the lush valleys, the Montagu Trail Festival is a celebration of the great outdoors and the indomitable spirit of trail running. Embrace the challenge, savour the experience, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Here’s to an incredible weekend of trail running, exploration, and discovery in the beautiful town of Montagu. See you on the trails!
We will be back next year for another bruising!
Thank you to Bill, Shirley, Dave and the rest of the Nyati-x team who created such a lovely family-friendly event and made us slow farts feel like champions too.
If you want to join the next Nyati-x event, please check out the upcoming Tankwa Run (yes, another one) event later this year. We’ve already entered. So we will see you there! Hopefully we wont come dead last this time!
Pics with permission from Nyati-x:
Instagram: @nyati_x
Facebook: @nyatiX