If you love to drive, you will love the road to Penhoek Pass
South Africa, africa
114 km
1,852 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, road trip fans, let me tell you about Penhoek Pass! This beauty sits way up high in South Africa's Eastern Cape province, clocking in at a cool 1,852 meters (that's over 6,000 feet!). You'll find it nestled in the Stormberg Mountains on the N6 between Jamestown and Komani.
The whole stretch is paved, so no need for the off-roader this time. This is a long one at 114 km (71 miles), but this isn't some boring highway slog. We're talking perfectly engineered curves from the 1950s, impressive road cuts, and mostly gentle slopes, though you'll hit some short steep sections with gradients of 1:10.
Word to the wise: this pass has a reputation for wild weather. Winter brings heavy snow and freezing temps, which often shuts the road down. Even in summer, be prepared for crazy electrical storms and hail the size of golf balls! So, check conditions before you go. Penhoek Pass is a dramatic drive you won't soon forget!
Where is it?
If you love to drive, you will love the road to Penhoek Pass is located in South Africa (africa). Coordinates: -31.7318, 21.2045
Road Details
- Country
- South Africa
- Continent
- africa
- Length
- 114 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,852 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- -31.7318, 21.2045
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Okay, so you HAVE to check out Penhoek Pass if you're in the Eastern Cape of South Africa! This beauty sits way up high in the Stormberg Mountains, topping out at 1,852 meters (that's over 6,000 feet!). The whole route, the N6 National Route, is completely paved, so no need for a 4x4. It stretches for a good 114 kilometers (71 miles) between Jamestown and Komani. What’s cool is this road was built way back in 1952 and features these beautifully banked corners and easy gradients. However, be warned — some parts are steep with a maximum gradient of 1:10. Now, the weather? Let's just say Penhoek Pass has a reputation! In winter, expect road closures thanks to heavy snowfall and freezing temps. Seriously, check conditions beforehand because things can get rough, fast. Even in summer, you're looking at potential electrical storms with HUGE hailstones. It's dramatic, it's gorgeous, but be prepared for anything!
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