About Fort Cunynghame Pass
This rather odd rendition of ‘Cunningham' is the name for the pass on the N6 near Stutterheim. Whilst the pass is a modern road, easy to drive and with some pretty spectacular views, its name is an historical one - named after a general and the commander of the British Forces in the last Frontier War.
Did you know? Before you drive the Fort Cunynghame Pass, walk Stutterheim's heritage trail, which starts at the Bethel Mission Station, the very first church built in the area in 1837 for the Berlin Missionary Society.
The N6 heads up to where Fort Cunynghame, closed since 1879, stood just north of Stutterheim.
In its time, the fort had 100 men stationed here, as well as an 88th and one seven-pounder gun. Stutterheim's history includes over 100 years of Frontier Wars, when the British and the Xhosa were at war over this portion of land at the foot of the Amathole Mountains.
The pass proper begins just after the road intersects with the Xaxazele River when it swings gently left and then heads through pine plantations, where the scenery becomes rather impressive. The forests and mountains around Stutterheim are worth exploring on hikes.
In particular the Xholora Forest (also spelt Kologha), an indigenous forest thick on the slopes of the Amathole. The N6 bypasses the Kologha Forest Reserve to the west of it (to reach the forests take the R352 out of Stutterheim and follow signs). Marked hikes start at the main picnic site and head into the forest, varying between 3 and 17 km in length. Look out for the Cape parrot.
Need to Know
WhereFort Cunynghame Pass, Outside Stutterheim, Amatola Region, Eastern Cape, South Africa
WhenBest during daylight hours.
OvernightStay in Stutterheim Accommodation, Eastern Cape
Disclaimer
Please note, business details can change. While we endeavour to ensure all information provided by the service provider is correct at the time of publication, we do not assume any liability caused by errors or changes, such as price, cost, time, and location. Please check with the provider that the activity/business is still offered as described, before making any travel plans.
Feedback?
If this is your attraction, you can let us know if anything on this page is outdated or contains inaccuracies, by email. We regret, we do not have any other information, please contact the provider if you have questions.
Additional Reading
You might also be interested inIn the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options in Stutterheim
The Croft Cottages
The Croft Cottages offer accommodation conveniently situated when traveling to or from East London, Bhisho, King Williams Town and Queenstown. It...
Rockdell Lodge
Step into farm style comfort and luxury – Rockdell Lodge is situated 35km from the Eastern Cape town of Stutterheim. Intimate and cosy Rockdell o...
The Manderson Hotel
A warm welcome awaits you at The Manderson, three star Hotel and Conference Centre, situated at the base of the forested Amatola Mountains, 7km f...
The Shire Eco Lodge
As refreshing as it is unique; an extraordinary and truly unique space, captivating with its innovative design and magnificent forest setting. Th...
Things to do in the area
Day Visit to Mgwali Village
Experience true Xhosa hospitality on the delightful day trip of Mgwali Village, the oldest village in Eastern Cape. Taste traditional food and en...
Hike the Kologha Forest Trails
The Kologha Forest Trails are located in the eastern end of the Amatola Mountains which are near Stutterheim in the Eastern Cape. These mountain...
Stutterheim Stationary Engine Museum
The Stutterheim Stationary Engine Museum is believed to have one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of restored stationary engine...
Shire Wild Bulb Nursery
The Shire Wild Bulb Nursery is an indigenous nursery with a large range of indigenous trees and an extensive collection of Eastern Cape bulbs, so...
Vinkel en Koljander Coffee Shop
The charming little Eastern Cape town of Stutterheim, just brimming with history and natural beauty, is the proud home of the Vinkel en Koljander...
Thomas River Historical Village
Nestled between Stutterheim and Cathcart is the Thomas River Historical Village. The village is named after a British deserter, Thomas Bently who...
Kologha Forest Blue Day Walk
Indulge in this easy three kilometre walk through the beauty of the Eastern Cape Province for a retreat from city life. The Kologha Forest Blue D...
Andersons Dam Trail
For a fun filled family day out, grab a picnic basket, rustle up the kids and head to the Andersons Dam Trail. The 8 kilometer walk is easy and s...
Pirie Forest Hike
Start: southern end of the Maden DamFinish: back where you started, as it's circularDuration: 9kmFitness: it's an easy walkOur tip: look out for ...
Accommodation convenient to Fort Cunynghame Pass
FIND / South Africa Accommodation / Eastern Cape Accommodation / Amatola Accommodation / Stutterheim Accommodation