Set within the gorgeous layers of the Langeberge Mountains, Barrydale is a paradise for those looking for a taste of the good country life. Visitors flock to Barrydale in order to relax and gear down into a slower paced lifestyle, while the local community has seen to it that their beloved little village has everything folks from the city need to feel comfortable in the country.

Eating and drinking is part of the slow life in Barrydale and there are probably more restaurants in this tiny town than any other Karoo dorpie relative to its size. Barrydale upholds the Karoo’s reputation for superior cooking, complemented by unique dining settings that make for experiential eating. From the artistic, vintage and the themed to the cute, quaint and quirky, visitors definitely need a few days to appreciate the full range of Barrydale’s culinary delights, not to mention its award winning cellars and brandy. 

Those who are looking to get in touch with their spiritual side or are seeking mindful rest will be happy to discover that Barrydale is a sanctuary for the soul. Visitors can take there pick of walking the peace labyrinth, visiting the peace pagoda that was consecrated by a Burmese Monk, turning an Indian medicine wheel or sign up for a meditation and yoga retreat. The village also boasts having a number of different denomination churches, including the iconic Dutch Reformed Church that is so intrinsic to the Barrydale’s history.

Those seeking an exhilarating Klein Karoo adventure can take their 4x4 wheels on a challenging mountain route that starts at the foot of the Langeberg and winds its way up to the summit. Adventurers will be rewarded for taking the road less travelled with unsurpassed vistas over the Tradouw Valley and a lapa with braai and toilet facilities to kick back and celebrate after reaching the top. Those who are up for the challenge but don’t have the motor power can also request to be taken on a day tour of the route. 

Horse trails are also offered for both inexperienced and seasoned riders. Taking up to six riders at a time, visitors can choose early morning or evening trails when the light is at its best. Over-night horse trails can also be organized which are fully catered to enhance the comfort of your experience. There have been reports of riders having encounters with small game like antelope and someone even saw a leopard once.

The winning combination of fine weather, unsurpassed biodiversity and natural beauty makes Barrydale a unique playground for any lover of the outdoors. Surrounded by wilderness and national parks, the mountains are filled with treasures that make Barrydale a natural paradise not to be missed. 

For more seasoned hikers who really want to go into the heart of the beauty and obscurity of the Klein Karoo, there are a number of different routes that set out into the Langeberge. Depending on the season, keep your eyes peeled for the rare flora and fauna of the land that is guaranteed to amaze and delight. There are also numerous rock pools, hot springs and waterfalls welcoming you into their fresh waters.

In case your interest has not yet been thoroughly peaked, Barrydale also has a buzzing nightlife where visitors can expect to see anything from live music and dancing to stand-up comedy and even a Bet Midler tribute show! Summer brings gifts in form of a harvest festival, dinner clubs, food and wine pairings and a traditional motorcycle rally that has been going since 1980. 

The annual Barrydale Spring Festival in October is also an important event on the calendar. For those who enjoy a good sweat, The Joseph Barry Tradouw Pass Half Marathon attracts a large number of runners who compete over a 21-kilometer course through the gorgeous pass.

With its fine food, lively nightlife, spiritual totems and natural wonderland, Barrydale is a one of a kind little place that’s simply too good to pass by.