Old Toll House Montagu Pass
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Old Toll House Montagu Pass

4.6
·353 reviews·George, South Africa

A historic gem on Montagu Pass, offering nostalgic museum exhibits, stunning mountain views, and delicious pancakes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sat & Sun mornings

Enjoy fresh pancakes & coffee

CrowdMedium
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Old Toll House Montagu Pass

Old Toll House Montagu Pass

Best Time

Sat & Sun mornings

Enjoy fresh pancakes & coffee

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic gem on Montagu Pass, offering nostalgic museum exhibits, stunning mountain views, and delicious pancakes.

4.6
(353 reviews)

"A fantastic find with the best pancakes and coffee, great views, and a perfect place to relax."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥞 Pancake Perfection

Don't miss the delicious pancakes and coffee! A R50 donation is highly recommended. :pancakes:

💳 Payment Options

Both cash and card payments are accepted for donations and purchases. :credit_card:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Toll House Museum

Historic Toll House Museum

Step back in time at this charming museum, filled with local history and nostalgic artifacts.

Spectacular Mountain Views

Spectacular Mountain Views

Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and unique flora await.

Delicious Pancakes & Coffee

Delicious Pancakes & Coffee

Enjoy freshly made pancakes and strong coffee, a local favorite and a worthy cause.

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Planning Your Visit

Weekend Wonders & History

This historic gem is only open on Saturdays and Sundays, making it a perfect weekend escape. Dive into local history and enjoy stunning mountain views.

Pancakes & Panoramic Views

Don't miss the famous pancakes and strong coffee! A small donation covers a delicious treat while you soak in the spectacular scenery. Cash and card accepted.

Best Times

When
Sat & Sun mornings
Why
Enjoy fresh pancakes & coffee
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Quieter, stunning views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tolhuis Montagu Pass #montagu #montagupass #tollhouse #tolhuis #gardenroute #gardenroutesouthafrica #george #outeniqua
@jack_hartland_adventures
49 likes • 3K views

🥞 Pancake Perfection

Don't miss the delicious pancakes and coffee! A R50 donation is highly recommended. :pancakes:

💳 Payment Options

Both cash and card payments are accepted for donations and purchases. :credit_card:

The Montagu Pass is going to be restored to its former glory. The good news was officially announced at the Toll House on Monday 17 March, by a group of relieved locals who have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to secure the future of the pass. The Western Cape Department of Infrastructure (DoI) has made R80m available from a national disaster management grant it had received in Octo...
@thegeorgeherald
187 likes • 12.7K views
Toll House faves - Tropical Chicken, Pork Binagoongan and Burger Steak Meal 😍😍😍😍
@elijahvicher
15 likes • 892 views

🚗 Easy Access

Just a short 200m dirt road off the Outeniqua Pass. Easy to find! :car:

⛰️ History Buff's Haven

Super nostalgic and interesting for history fanatics. :old_key:

Tips

from all over the internet

🥞 Pancake Perfection

Don't miss the delicious pancakes and coffee! A R50 donation is highly recommended. :pancakes:

💳 Payment Options

Both cash and card payments are accepted for donations and purchases. :credit_card:

🚗 Easy Access

Just a short 200m dirt road off the Outeniqua Pass. Easy to find! :car:

⛰️ History Buff's Haven

Super nostalgic and interesting for history fanatics. :old_key:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(353 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Old Toll House Montagu Pass for its historical charm, stunning mountain views, and delicious pancakes and coffee. The friendly volunteers and the worthy cause behind the donations add to the positive experience. Some may find the limited opening hours a drawback, but the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive for a weekend visit.

"Historic site with plenty of memorabilia and artifacts. Beautiful views of the Outeniqua mountains and valley. Old wagons drive home the emotional and physical toll of generations past, not least the hard labour of the imprisoned and enslaved!
Oom George gave us such a lovely welcome and information, and the young lass whose name I've forgotten did a brilliant job of coffee and pannekoek.

Worth every bit of the short diversion from the road to Oudshoorn from George"

Yusuf Patel

"Very interesting little museum. Loads of history. Good (strong) coffee and pancakes. Stunning views and walks. Well worth a visit. Only open Sat and Sun."

Lesley Wilson

"Fun experience to have over the weekend. Beautiful scenic views.
If you are a history fanatic Toll House is for you, super nostalgic.
Friendly volunteers prepare delicious pancakes and coffee. R50 donation will get you two pancakes and a coffee.
Cash and card options available.
Highly recommend."

Nadia Jensen

What People Like

Historic charm
Spectacular views
Delicious pancakes & coffee

What People Dislike

Weekend-only hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Old Toll House is located just off the Montagu Pass, accessible via a short 200m dirt road from the Outeniqua Pass. It's a scenic drive, perfect for those exploring the Garden Route. Reddit

The main Montagu Pass is a well-maintained road. The final approach to the Toll House is a short dirt road, generally manageable for most vehicles, but drive with care. Reddit

The Toll House is situated between George and Oudtshoorn, making it a convenient stop when traveling between these two towns via the scenic Montagu Pass. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Old Toll House is exclusively open on Saturdays and Sundays. Plan your visit accordingly to experience this historic site. Reddit

Entry is by donation. A suggested R50 donation is appreciated and helps maintain the site and its historical artifacts. Reddit

Advance booking is not typically required as it's a casual visit based on donations. Simply arrive during weekend opening hours. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore the small but interesting museum, enjoy the stunning mountain views, and savor delicious pancakes and coffee prepared by friendly volunteers. Reddit

Yes, the area is great for walks and is a popular spot for hikers and mountain bikers exploring the Montagu Pass. Reddit

Absolutely! It's described as a 'super nostalgic' and 'very interesting' museum, perfect for those who love local history. Reddit

Visitors describe it as a 'fun experience' with 'friendly volunteers' and a 'perfect place to relax' amidst beautiful scenery. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The highlight is the delicious, strong coffee and freshly made pancakes, often cited as a must-try. Reddit

A donation of R50 is suggested for two pancakes and a coffee, which is considered excellent value. Reddit

Yes, both cash and card payments are accepted for your donations and purchases. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the stunning panoramic mountain views, the historic architecture of the Toll House itself, and the delicious presentation of the pancakes and coffee. Reddit

Definitely! The location offers spectacular views of the mountains and flora, making it ideal for landscape photographers. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Old Toll House Montagu Pass offers a relaxed and engaging experience for families. The short drive and easy access make it a convenient stop. Kids will enjoy the novelty of the historic toll house and the chance to see a bit of local history. Reddit

The highlight for many families will be the delicious pancakes and coffee, a treat that's sure to please younger palates. The open space around the toll house also allows for a bit of stretching and enjoying the fresh mountain air. It's a low-key, enjoyable stop that adds a touch of history and flavor to a family road trip.

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

For those exploring the Garden Route, the Old Toll House Montagu Pass is an ideal stop. Its location makes it a perfect break point when driving between George and Oudtshoorn. The easy access from the main pass and the short dirt road ensure minimal disruption to your journey. Reddit

Pack your camera for the stunning views and be sure to budget time for the famous pancakes and coffee. It’s a chance to stretch your legs, soak in some local history, and enjoy a delicious, affordable treat before continuing your adventure. The weekend-only opening hours make it a great destination for a leisurely Saturday or Sunday drive.

💰 Budget Travelers

The Old Toll House Montagu Pass is incredibly budget-friendly. Entry is by donation, with a suggested R50 for a generous serving of pancakes and coffee. This makes it an affordable way to experience a unique piece of local heritage and enjoy a tasty snack. Reddit

Beyond the donation, there are no other significant costs. It’s a perfect spot for travelers looking to experience local culture and enjoy scenic beauty without breaking the bank. The value for money, especially for the food, is consistently praised by visitors.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Old Toll House Montagu Pass is more than just a scenic stop; it's a portal to the past. This charming structure served as a toll collection point, preserving a piece of the region's transportation history. Visitors often remark on the 'super nostalgic' feel, with exhibits that bring the area's heritage to life. It's a place where you can truly feel the history and appreciate the stories held within its walls. Reddit

Friendly volunteers, like Ken and George, are often on hand to share their knowledge and passion for the Toll House. Their insights add a personal touch to the historical experience, making it more engaging and memorable. It’s this dedication that helps keep the local history alive for future generations. Reddit

For those interested in the history of Montagu Pass, the Toll House offers a tangible connection to its development and the travelers who once passed through. It’s a small but significant landmark that contributes to the rich tapestry of the Garden Route's past.

The Culinary Delight: Pancakes and Coffee

A significant draw for many visitors to the Old Toll House is the promise of delicious, homemade pancakes and strong coffee. This simple yet satisfying offering has become a beloved tradition, with many reviews highlighting it as a 'must-try' experience. For a suggested donation of R50, you can enjoy two fluffy pancakes and a cup of robust coffee, making it incredibly good value. Reddit

What makes this culinary stop even more special is that the proceeds from these sales go towards a worthy cause – maintaining the historic Toll House and preserving local heritage. So, not only do you get a tasty treat, but you also contribute directly to the upkeep of this unique landmark. Both cash and card payments are accepted, adding to the convenience. Reddit

This combination of a delightful treat and a charitable contribution makes the pancake and coffee stop at the Old Toll House a truly rewarding part of the visit. It’s a perfect way to refuel and relax while soaking in the beautiful surroundings.

Capturing the Scenery: Photography at Montagu Pass

The Old Toll House Montagu Pass is a photographer's dream, offering a stunning backdrop of the surrounding mountains and diverse flora. The 'spectacular views' are frequently mentioned in reviews, providing ample opportunities for breathtaking landscape shots. Whether you're an amateur or a seasoned photographer, the vistas here are sure to impress. Reddit

Beyond the grand landscapes, the historic Toll House itself presents unique photographic subjects. Its rustic charm and weathered appearance tell a story, offering a different perspective for your lens. Don't forget to capture the details – the textures of the old stone, the surrounding fynbos, and the winding road of the pass itself. Reddit

Even the simple act of enjoying the famous pancakes and coffee can make for charming photos. The presentation, combined with the rustic setting, creates a cozy and inviting scene. Remember to visit on a weekend morning when the light is often soft and beautiful, perfect for capturing the essence of this special place.

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