Is Penhoek Pass paved?

Is Penhoek Pass paved?

South Africa, africa

Length

114 km

Elevation

1,852 m

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

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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Road Details

Country
South Africa
Continent
africa
Length
114 km
Max Elevation
1,852 m
Difficulty
moderate

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