About Shaw's Pass
Also known as Shaw's Mountain Pass, this passage into the Overberg links the Hemel en Aarde valley outside Hermanus to Caledon. It lies on the R320 a little way from Tesselaarsdal, where you will see a turn-off indicating Shaw's Mountain Pass.
Did you know? Views from the top take in the eastern half of the Hemel en Aarde Valley.
Shaw's Pass is a gravel pass, easy to drive, apart from more than a few hairpin bends, and incredibly scenic.
Shaw's Mountain Pass has been more fondly described as one of the Cape's 'little mountain travails', more or less disqualifying it as a major mountain pass. In other words, it is not essential to have an off-road vehicle or bike, and you will not need to consistently study the road, missing out entirely on the views.
Shaws pass was named after lieutenant Colonel William S Shaw, an ex-Indian army officer who settled close to in the Cape in 1839, and who introduced merino sheep to the area. His farm was known as Truyntjiesrivier, but he renamed it Muirton after his family's farm in Scotland.
Whilst out this way you will be able to stop at more than a few wine farms, and the town of Tesselaarsdal, a little village surrounded by cattle, sheep, pig, horse, wild fynbos and lavender farms.
Shaw's Pass is also home to rare Overberg Sandstone Fynbos, found on low mountains and plains where the soil is acidic. Whilst it is the least threatened on a national basis, only 6% of the target 30% is conserved.
If you are prepared to stop, sit and wait, you might even catch sight of the Robertson's Blue butterfly, and the landscape at Shaw's Pass will entice all photographers with its variability and beauty.
Need to Know
WhereShaw's Pass, Hermanus to Caledon, Cape Overberg, Western Cape, South Africa
WhenBest during daylight hours.
OvernightStay in Caledon Accommodation, Western Cape
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In the vicinity
Hotels & other accommodation options in Caledon

Swartberg Guest House
Situated in the historical Mill Street in Caledon, Swartberg Guest House offers a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. Safe, off-street parking is a...

Beaumont Family Wines
Beaumont Family Wines is situated on a working wine and fruit farm and offers accommodation in two self-catering cottages. The Mill House sleeps ...

Lekkerdroom Farm
Lekkerdroom Farm offers comfortable rustic self-catering farm cottages situated between the mountains of Tesselaarsdal near the stunningly pictur...

Kelkiewyn Guesthouse
Kelkiewyn Guest House offers comfortable, affordable and centrally located accommodation in the heart of Caledon, allowing easy access to The Cal...

Barton Villas
Barton Farm, with its seven units (5 Tuscan style self-catering holiday villas and 2 cottages), is located near Botriver in the heart of the Koge...

Black Eagle Villa
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Southern Yurts
Southern Yurts provides a unique accommodation experience and is located in Botrivier on the Porcupine Hills Guest Farm. The north-facing yurt is...

Little Lotta Cottage
Little Lotta Cottage in Caledon is a fabulous place to enjoy a break away from city life and is only an hour away from Cape Town. Choose from one...

Swaynekloof Farm
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Drayton Guest Farm
Drayton Guest Farm offers comfortable accommodation on an old farm in Caledon that dates back to the mid 1700’s. Choose from our self catering co...

Caledon Grace
Caledon Grace offers accommodation in our beautiful manor house which has a swimming pool, braai area, secure parking and garden. Experience the ...

Kelkiewyn Guesthouse
Kelkiewyn Guest House offers comfortable, affordable and centrally located accommodation in the heart of Caledon, allowing easy access to The Cal...
Things to do in the area

Dassiesfontein Farm Stall
Dassiesfontein is a fully licensed restaurant and traditional farmer's fare situated in the heart of the Overberg. From humble beginnings 12 year...

Porcupine Grill at Porcupine Hill
Situated on a 220-hectare property, the Grill at Porcupine Hills Olive Farm is a grill with a difference, boasting stunning views of the mountain...

Van Brakel Stoor
The Van Brakel Stoor is an authentic, historical farm stall, on a lone stand, along the Caledon / Napier route. With its original antique wooden ...

The Black Sheep Diner and Satellite Bar
Popular with Caledon locals and visitors alike, the Black Sheep diner and adjoining Satellite bar are the places to be seen in Caledon! The Black...

Caledon Wildflower Trail
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Caledon Museum
The Caledon Museum is split into two buildings depicting very different parts of local history. The Victorian House houses an abundance of artifa...

Off Road Go-Karting In Caledon
Get your adrenaline pumping in a fun off road Go-Kart race. While others are on the track you can sit alongside the grassy banks, admire the magn...

Elgin Railway Market
Elgin may have earned its name as one of the prettiest fruit-growing regions in the country, but it is getting to the top of the tourist hotspot ...
Accommodation convenient to Shaw's Pass
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