Witteklip base camp where we left our vehicles and started the hike.
A group of 11 participants joined to explore this hiking trail which has been on my personal wish list for a while.
From Southern Cape section of the MCSA – Gillian Forbes, Janet Moore, Maretha Alant, Ruth Powell and Stephen Uekermann. All the way from the Cape Town Section – Roy White (the only one who self carried as he was training for an upcoming long hike in the USA. He did not need training, as he was first up most of the many hills even with the heavy load!) and Paul Burger. And guests were Marina Botha, Annie Smith and Bobby Small.
This multi day trail follows tracks for most of the way. There is quite a bit of elevation gain. The scenery is really beautiful and varied. Pure ‘big country’ stuff!
We met at the overnight option, Witteklip Base camp, left our vehicles and transferred our food to the manager, Hannes ‘s bakkie. After a comprehensive briefing from Hannes, which I must admit left my brain a bit scrambled, a comprehensive map (which was recommended after the hike ) would have been much more useful. But having said that, the signage on the trail was pretty good.
Waterval Hut and Slagkamer hut
The 2 different very basic huts sleep 12, but felt a bit crammed and it would be more comfortable, and even the basic kitchen-eating area would be best for a party of 8 max. There are toilet and shower facility and ample wood is supplied.
Maretha enjoyed her tent on the first two nights, but abandoned this option because of colder windier nights 3 and 4. Bobby however persevered the semi outdoor option and using a table and lounge bed he made himself an ingenious shelter for those nights!
The hike takes the shape of two loops and follows gravel roads in a variety of conditions. Hannes is a farmer not a hiker so very little single track. But what makes this hike special is the awe inspiring vistas! They need to be experienced! Day three was for me the most awe inspiring!
To say the trail is undulating is a slight under statement, so a relative level of fitness is required. But as day 2 and day 4 can be used as a rest day for those who would prefer, it is very doable!
What really made these five days very special was the contribution from each participant to the many laughs camaraderie and the pack of cards!
The Bushman caves and paintings complete with clear leopard spoor were worth a detour as well as the ancient Cycads on day 4.
Below some of the variation in vegetation from Renoster bos to Fynbos
Ruth and Bobby on day 5
Janet striding out making the long up hills look easy!
Big Country Stuff!
https://www.antjiesepad.co.za/
Statistics:
Day 1 is 16 kms, Day 2 12.5 kms, Day 3 = 10.7 kms, Day 4 = 12.6 km Day 5 = 10.8km. Total 62.5 Kms.
2 782 m accumulative climbs.
Team Leader ~ Fran Hunziker