A fine late-Autumn day after the passing of a cold front was forecast for our walk in the hills. Leaving home just before sunrise Sandy and I passed several rather cold-looking trail runners who had set off on the MUT Miler (165 km) at 14h00 the previous day. Leaving George to head over the Outeniqua Pass we shuddered to see the acres and queues of cars near the Witfontein forest station. (Pleased to report that the MCSA was represented on the MUT Lite 10km and 42 km events that day – but that’s another story).
In attendance were Jude Cobern, Tony Bowen, Anne MacGregor (visitor from Cape Town Section), Werner Freid and Sandy Cundill (behind the camera).
Just after we met up at the usual parking area a convoy of vehicles arrived, bearing members of the Berg en dal club. After checking their planned direction of walking we made a head start on the route.
The jeep track was in fair condition, but the recent rains resulted in some damp feet in a couple of places. Flowering proteas abounded, sadly supplemented by some hakea, and the fynbos alongside the track is thickening―to the extent that we might have missed the path to the pool in the absence of the cairn. No takers for a swim in the shadow of the ridge that morning, however. As we walked along Tony provided some guidance about alternative routes that could be taken on the ridges to either side of us.
There was time for tea, and then up the (still largely shady) path to the beacon, passing the Berg en dal
group on the way. Lunch in the sun was complemented by crystal-clear views in all directions of the surrounding mountain ranges, with a little snow visible on the Swartberg.
A pleasant walk down the hill brought us back to the cars at the advertised time. A very pleasant way to spend a Saturday, enjoying beautiful surroundings and good company. Thanks to all for a delightful excursion and the shared experiences and pictures.
Meet Leader ~ Gary Cundill