Antoniesbrg Pass (Grootrivier Poort) in Kouga Rural, Eastern Cape

Not for the Faint Hearted

Antoniesberg Pass, also known as Grootrivier Poort Road, is a remote, gravel Pass that crosses over the Grootrivier on the northern side of the Baviaanskloof Mountain in the Eastern Cape. This Pass is no Sunday drive and not for the faint hearted!

Antoniesberg Pass is not the longest Pass but getting there may take some time and the access roads make driving this Pass a bit of an adventure. Real-time driving is approximately 2,5 hours however driving this Pass from Patensie to Willowmore means you will need to allow for the whole day. Make sure your tank if full!

It goes without saying that you will need a 4X4 vehicle and if you on your off-road bike you will need to keep your wits about you and be experienced to handle this Pass as it has many long, steep sections with loose gravel sections that are dangerous. You also need to be aware that during the rainy season, the Groot River often floods, making for a difficult and sometimes dangerous crossing. It is prone to flash floods.

First time visitors can find getting there a bit confusing, maps show the road as Grootrivier Poort - start your journey at Patensie and take the tarred R331 into the Baviaanskloof, look out for the turn at S33.739303 E24.779037 to meet with the Antoniesberg Pass. There is no sign indicating the Pass so it’s best to ask for any helpful information from the locals, visitors can contact the Tolbos Country Shop and Tea Garden in Patensie for directions.

The scenery is stunning, the road trip an adventure - those in the know swear it's worth it!

Things to do and see

• River Crossings
• Baviaanskloof Wilderness
• Groot Winterhoek Mountains (The Cockscomb)
• 4 X4 Tracks
• Viewing points
• Photo Opportunities

Admission

Free to Drive, best during daylight hours only