The Protea Farm Tractor Ride | A must-do adventure in the Koo Valley
Don't miss out on a one-of-a-kind experience with the Protea Farm Tractor Ride in the scenic Koo Valley near Montagu. A slow, scenic climb to 1,500m above sea level offers panoramic views, a mass of wild proteas, and a taste of South African hospitality. This is an unforgettable eco-adventure for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts!
As an ‘inkommer’ to Montagu, there are typically two questions you'll be asked by fellow residents:
1. ‘Where do you live?’ (because houses have history, backstories and ghosts in this little town) and,
2. ‘Have you done the Protea Farm Tractor Ride and 'potjie'?’
After living in Montagu for a year, I decided it was time to join the Protea Farm fan club and say ‘I’ve been there, done that, and got the T-shirt.’
Nestled in the heart of the Koo valley, just 31 km from the scenic Route 62, lies Protea Farm; an unexpected find for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, and the gateway to the renowned tractor ride excursion that transports you to scenic heights; 1500m above sea level to be exact! (This is one and a half times the height of Table Mountain, so skip the cable car and book the tractor ride).
Since its inception in 1985, this 2-hour tractor outing has become a legendary activity, delighting both local and international visitors.
Pierre Burger - 7th generation fruit farmer on this land - is your intrepid tractor driver and friendly tour guide. As a ‘padkos’ treat, we were the fortunate tasters of his freshly harvested export apricots. (I hope the French appreciate our local fare).
An 'ecotourism' experience
Every Wednesday and Saturday at 10h00, the adventure begins as the tractor, pulling its eager passengers, meanders up the Langeberg Mountain. Depending on Pierre’s mood and his reading of his travellers, he may make the odd unscripted detour. (Like Safair, the tractor departs on time, so you are politely asked to arrive at 09h30).
From the ‘get-go’ you cannot help having your camera at the ready as the photo ops present themselves. (It’s not really possible to capture the scale of the views and scenery with a lens, but you have to try).
As you go higher and higher, the ‘oohs’ and ‘aahs’ are a collective chorus as you're treated to panoramic vistas of the Koo Valley with its patchwork of orchards and fields stretching out below.
En route, you also get to witness a mass display of indigenous and protected proteas growing wild; a complimentary and welcome sideshow to the tractor’s ascent.
A brief halfway stop on the climb allows you to stretch your legs, get some local info from Pierre and immerse yourself in your surroundings. It's a time to smell the fynbos, photograph the protea varieties, marvel at the views, and just pause at the natural beauty of the Koo Valley all around you.
Interesting fact: The word ‘koo’ comes from the KhoiSan word meaning ‘very cold.’ This is apt, as in winter, the temperatures dip radically and the entire valley is covered in snow. (Unfortunately the tractor ride goes into hibernation when the snow falls).
'A walk in the clouds'
Upon reaching the summit, you will have to take a moment. It's breathtaking. The weather can also be much chillier so close to the clouds, so take a jacket. From this vantage point, the view expands to include the entire Robertson Valley (all the way to McGregor), offering a unique perspective of the Western Cape's diverse landscapes.
In celebration of reaching new heights, a brief stop at the rustic mountain hiker's hut provides a warm welcome in the form of a tot of Muscadel wine and some dried fruit. (There is ice tea for teetotallers and those under 18).
This is the opportunity for a toilet break, a chat with fellow travellers, and a wander around to take in the beauty at this altitude.
The descent offers another chance to soak in the natural beauty, with the distant Matroos Mountains painting a picturesque backdrop. (For the trip down, I advise you to put the camera away and just enjoy the ride).
Why it's a must-do
Staying in Montagu presents the perfect opportunity to take advantage of this tractor trip experience which is obviously more than just a tractor ride; it's a stunning introduction to the region's rich agricultural heritage.
As a tourist, it’s an unparalleled opportunity to experience panoramic views of the Koo Valley, and Robertson Valley from the summit of the Langeberg Mountains; a perspective you won’t find anywhere else.
You can book just the tractor ride round trip (around 2 hours).
You can book the tractor ride + the sumptuous, traditional potjie meal (with bottomless ‘moerkoffie’) afterwards (around 4 hours).
The Protea Farm Tractor Ride is all it says on the label (and more). The altitude and fresh mountain air, combined with the serene landscapes, offer an authentic outdoor escape and a memorable adventure that connect you to the heart of the region’s natural beauty.
Written by Leanne Johnson
Thank you for your informative articles. As regular visitors to Montagu we are always looking for ways to prolong our visits and the information supplied by you helps us to build a good "to do" list !