The weather forecast the week before the hike was not looking good, with light rain forecast for Friday night into Saturday morning. People were worried about the rocks around the Point being slippery from rain and sea spray. However, the weather gods were smiling on us and a most glorious sunny day awaited the 12 hikers.
The group consisted of 10 club members and 2 guests.
Left to right: Dave Barnes, Irmela Kohlsdorf, Wolf Schneider, Geoff Ditchfield, Clive Louw, Mike von der Heyde, Dave Edge, Hanna Edge, Attie Cilliers, Rea Cilliers and Romy Foster (Fred van Berkel behind the camera)
We set off on the path on the northern side of the peninsula, stopping frequently to look at the seal colonies, which you smell and hear first before you see them. The grown ups were swimming in the sea, while the pups were having a great time in the baby rock pools!
Cape Fur Seal Colony
Walking on the northern side
Along the way Fred gave us an introduction into the geology of the peninsula, while Dave Edge told us about the very threatened Knysna Sand Fynbos. The Robberg is one of the few places where this vegetation type can still be found in its (mostly) unaltered state.
We stopped at The Point for lunch (although it was only 11 o’clock), and had a great time watching the seals cavort in the waves. Then we tackled the colder, more rugged southern side of the peninsula, but the weather was wonderful and there was no sign of slippery rocks. The frequent NSRI signposts however reminded us that the coastline is not always so benign. It is a good idea to save these numbers in one’s cellphone for further reference.
NSRI Information Boards
Going down towards the Fountain Shack
Another break was taken at The Island beach, although nobody had the courage to go for a dip – skinny or otherwise! Back at The Gap some people were just having a break when a shark was spotted cruising along in the very clear water – probably looking for a juicy seal or two. Just as well nobody went swimming.
Some of the group at The Island beach
Cruising shark
Hike stats: Total distance: approximately 9 km
Total time: 4 hours (including stops)
Thank you to everybody who came and enjoyed the day!
Hanna Edge – meet leader