Great walking routes
1. Great Winterhoek
This walk nearby Porterville is still one of my favourites and ideal for a weekend away. There are a few routes to choose from with plenty of places to swim and fantastic rock formations. You can also spot several species of red disas here. Hikers can walk anywhere and camp where they like. The route we took was about 37 km. We walked from the parking area to Groot Kliphuis where we ate lunch under the large oak trees. From there, we headed for De Tronk, where we camped for the evening. The next day we took the trip back to our car.
2. Boesmanskloof
I walked this route for the first time when I was ten years old, and have now done it a total of three times. This walk, in the Riviersonderend mountain range, stretches from McGregor in the north to Greyton in the south. The route is around 14 km, and what many hikers do is to overnight in Greyton or McGregor and walk back the next day. There are many great swimming spots along the way and a beautiful waterfall.
3. Wolfbergskeure
The crevices and rock formations in the Cederberg are well known. The route begins at the farm Sanddrif which has great camping sites next to the Dwarsriver. If you start early enough, you can finish the circular route (past the Rock Arch) in a day.
4. Lion’s Head
This peak alongside Table Mountain can easily be climbed on a full moon evening or even after work. It takes me about 40 minutes to the top and 20 minutes down. From the top, you have a 360º view over the city and Camps Bay, and when it’s full moon you can see the sun set on one side as the moon rises on the other over the city.
5. Waenhuiskrans to De Mond
This walk boasts white beaches and clear blue water. You walk on sand (tough on your calves!) all the way to De Mond where the Heunings River meets the ocean. I have always found the most beautiful shells on this beach. However, you do need a permit to collect shells here.
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