Barrydale lies enclosed in a narrow valley at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains, existing at a crossroad and can be approached from three different directions. Firstly, from the N2 through the quaint little village of Suurbraak through the spectacular Tradouw mountain pass or secondly, from Montagu (R62) and thirdly, from Oudtshoorn (R62) over the wide plateau of the Klein Karoo.

The small town of Barrydale - established in 1880 retains its timeless country charm and supports a diverse, yet harmonious community of young and old, Afrikaans and English, fruit farmers and artists, long time residents and newcomers. The area in which Barrydale is situated is as characteristically diverse as the population, being surrounded by a number of microclimates, landscapes and vegetation types. These range from the Afro-montane forest and delicate fynbos to Karoo scrub and a great variety of succulent plants.

Barrydale is mainly a fruit producing area, exporting deciduous fruits, ranging from peaches, plums and pears, to apples and grapes. Fruit harvesting starts in December with apricots and continues until the end of March with the last of the sun ripened peaches. The community is mainly dependent on agriculture, including dairy, sheep and cattle farming.

In Barrydale you live by the seasons - a unique climate being a vintner's dream. Warm sunny days and cool nights, a combination of fertile soil and a fresh afternoon breeze to cool the vineyards, resulting in prize winning Chardonnays, Ruby Cabernets and special brandy of origin. During winter light frosts enliven and one may be lucky enough to wake up to snow capped mountains set against the clear blue skies.

Barrydale is the perfect destination, or stopover, for visitors wishing to unwind and relax far removed from the stresses and strains of city life. For the more adventurous there are various outdoor adventures from hiking trails to fresh water angling. Visit this earthly fragment of paradise, another gateway to the Overberg.

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