Janet Brewer has more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality and tourism industry, both locally and internationally.
She also has a small vineyard in Somerset West which produced an excellent Shiraz last year, with a Karoo Saloon R62 Rock Roadhouse label, named Roadhouse Red.
This dynamic lady brings vision and enthusiasm to the Karoo Saloon R62 Rock Roadhouse and has a number of ideas for future events and improvements.
Marius Slabbert, who has previously managed wine, fruit and olive farms, said: “ There’s a lot of good feel about this place, lots of potential, a good challenge to revitalise it’s old reputation as a brilliant bike stop and also to develop it into a rock venue which is my passion.
A good place to paint as well – art paint – not painting walls which I have been doing!”
(Referring to improvements these new owners have been tackling with gusto)
Marius was immediately impressed with the ‘good vibe’ of the place when he first visited and relishes the challenges which lie ahead.
“We enjoy challenges … and the prospect of meeting all these people, both local and foreign … many, many interesting stories.”
The Karoo Saloon & Rock Roadhouse, is set to become the best Live Music Venue in the Karoo.
The Karoo Saloon Rock Roadhouse is something out of the ordinary with it’s live rock music events and hand painted wall murals by Marius, yet provides wholesome home cooked meals and clean ‘crashpad’ accommodation.
Situated halfway between Cape Town and the Garden Route on the R62, the venue attracts motorcycle clubs, tourists – both local and foreign, day visitors who attend the music events and those who simply enjoy good food, cold beers, a refreshing swim in the pool and great views.
This 53 hectare property stretches from the Karoo Saloon R62 Rock Roadhouse, across the R62, over a few mountains until it meets up with the Sambona Private Nature Reserve. Plans are afoot to create hiking trails and guests are currently welcome to walk and climb the mountains. Local flora and fauna changes with altitude, so be on the lookout for the wealth of variety the area has to offer.
The village of Barrydale is situated 14 km to the east of the Karoo Saloon R62 Rock Roadhouse along the R62, with Montagu 44km away in the opposite direction.
Karoo Saloon R62 Rock Roadhouse accommodation is clean, comfortable and almost ‘motel like’ in style.
It consists of five en-suite rooms:- Two of which sleep three or four people, another two have twin beds and the fifth en-suite room contains a double bed.
An eight bed bunkhouse which includes a wet-room completes the ‘built’ accommodation.
Hospitality trays with tea and coffee are available on request.
“We have camping sites on the lawns for motorcycle clubs who are touring with tents, and for those who come to watch the bands and want to stay overnight,” said Janet Brewer.
Experienced head of the kitchen, Carol, has been happily employed at the Karoo Saloon R62 Rock Roadhouse for many years. A sampling of current dishes on offer includes Kudu or Springbok Pot Pies, Bobotie, Lasagne, Prego Rolls and Pizza.
“This establishment is famous among bikers for it’s bacon and egg rolls,” commented Janet Brewer.
Diners can choose to sit inside in the open plan bar area or outside on the deck with it’s Klein Karoo mountain views.
The Karoo Saloon R62 Rock Roadhouse also provides take-aways for those who wish to continue their journey after brief refreshments.
Braais are another option and can easily be arranged in advance.
Busy periods of the year open every day, quieter times closed Tues, Wed, Thurs.
The restaurant and bar can be opened for overnight guests: phone for reservations and more information.
Bar and Restaurant
Opening hours: We are open Thursday from 6pm to 11pm, Friday 9am to 11pm, Sat 9am to 11pm and Sunday 9am to 5pm. Kitchen open until 8.30pm.
Come and Cool off in Our Pool
We have a natural spring water swimming pool filled and ready for not only a overnight but also a stop off swim, beer, and food.