The Swellendam trail has been on my list of trails to do for years. The trail was first opened in 1980. In 2012 a fire destroyed the paths and the hut at Boskloof. The trail is now open and back in frequent use again. The hut at Boskloof has been replaced with two corrugated iron structures.
The group: Ed Kay-Shuttleworth, Karin van Niekerk (leader), Clive Louw, Greg and Cheryl Devine, Maretha Alant, Tony and Evie Bowen. In front: Jacolise Joubert and Sandy Louw.
Day 1 (14.72 km) is the longest day on the hike. We set off early, just after 7.30 am. According to Clive’s GPS our ascent for the day was 1100 m and distance 14.72 km (thanks Ed!). We frequently crossed streams and filled up water bottles and cooled down.
The average day temperatures were in the low 30 degrees for most of the hike, with the middle day at 34. We aimed for early starts every day to have some cool walking.
The hut that burned down has been replaced with two corrugated iron shelters and composting loos. Everyone had a splash, soak, or wash in the stream. On climbing out of the valley the next morning we noticed the very large pool above the hut that we all missed! Next time…..
The first night was a quiet affair, everyone tired and in bed early.
The corrugated iron shelters at Boskloof
Day 2: (10.08 km)
The trail passes across Goedgeloofnek (after about 7 km) before descending to the huts at Goedgeloof. This nek gives access to a ridge leading to Misty Point – a peak at 1710 m (one of the highest in the Langeberg), Arangieskop at 1700 m. The highest peak is Keeromsberg at 2075 m above Worcester.
After discussions with Derek Odendaal, Clive and Ed planned to take a 4-hour detour from the nek to get to Misty Point, weather permitting. They set out at first light. The rest of us left at around seven. Very clear skies and perfect weather for the peak detour. Tony, Evie, Jacolise and Maretha did a part of the ridge scramble and turned back after about 45 minutes. On Ed’s video you can see the very rocky, boulder scrambling towards the point.
Hiking along Drosterpas out of the valley above Boskloof.
Looking east along the Langeberg.
Lunch in the shade, below Goedgeloof nek.
Goedgeloof huts are stone cottages. We were happy to have cold showers after a long, hot descent. Ed and Clive arrived around 5 pm. Happy with their peak.
Supper at Goedgeloof
Day 3 (9.44 km) – hiking From Goedgeloof hut over Warmwaternek into protea valley.
The hottest day of the hike. We were glad to get to the hut and out of the sun by lunch time. We spent the afternoon relaxing. There is a small stream and most hikers had a splash in a shallow pool.
Protea valley – looking east towards Misty Point.
Sunrise over Misty Point – from Protea valley hut.
Day 4 – 7.36 km
The shortest day, after a short ascent to a nek, the trail descends all the way down to Wolfkloof hut at the foot of the Langeberg.
Halfway down, mist made for a cooler day in the fynbos.
At Wolfkloof hut beautiful pools called for a swim.
Another view northeast towards Protea valley and Misty point.
Day 5 – 10.72 km
As usual the day starts with a steep ascent out of the valley. Then the path contours along until you reach Marloth Reserve.
Some hikers left at 6 am to get back home for various commitments. The rest of us had a leisurely walk out, followed by cold showers at the cars and lunch in Swellendam.
A truly great walk in the mountains.
Pristine and beautiful fynbos, endless views and wilderness.
I heard murmurs of “when are we doing it again?” as we were leaving.
Thanks to everyone who participated and made it such an enjoyable and memorable hike.
Karin van Niekerk – meet leader