After more than 30 years as a quirky cultural icon and must-visit watering hole, the world-renowned Ronnie’s Sex Shop is officially up for sale – marking the potential end of an era for one of South Africa’s most recognisable roadside bars.
The asking price?
R17.9 million, which includes the legendary pub, a coffee shop, gift shop, deck seating, and over 230 hectares of land near Barrydale, nestled along the scenic Route 62.
Humble farm stall
Founded by local farmer Ronnie Price, the bar’s origin is almost as famous as the destination itself.
What started as a humble farm stall became a tourist magnet in the 1970s when prankster friends added the word “Sex” to his “Ronnie’s Shop” sign – turning heads and changing his business plan forever.
Instead of fruit and veg, Ronnie opened a pub, and “Ronnie’s Sex Shop” soon evolved into a chaotic, offbeat hangout decorated with travel memorabilia, hanging bras, and wall-to-wall graffiti from global visitors.
Its fame exploded in the early 2000s after Route 62 was promoted as a scenic alternative to the N2, attracting tourists exploring the wine route between Cape Town and Oudtshoorn.
Sell the business
Now, decades later, Ronnie Price has decided to sell the farm and the business – though he will retain a life right to the main farmhouse, which has three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
The sale includes:
- The bar and wooden deck (seating ±60 people)
- A coffee shop and gift shop
- A 230-hectare working farm
- A smaller flat and additional infrastructure
Price’s decision to sell brings mixed emotions from long-time fans, many of whom view Ronnie’s Sex Shop as a rite of passage on any Karoo road trip.
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