Kranshoek Nature Walk
This lookout is near the end of the trail, after about a four-hour walk.
Not sure if you’re fit enough for the Otter Trail? Kranshoek Nature Walk offers the ideal test hike.
The trail in a nutshell
September to April are probably best, when it’s hot, but since it’s such a short route you can watch the weather forecast when you’re in the area and hike the trail on any clear day throughout the year.
How fit do you need to be?
The path is well laid out, with steps to help the hiker and prevent erosion. It’s generally well maintained. However, it’s pretty steep in places, and there’s a section where hikers have to clamber over rocks. If your knees are dodgy, best stay home.
And the kids?
Someone might have to carry a child for the last kilometre or two. Children older than eight years should be able to hike it comfortably, but then add an extra hour or two to the proposed hiking time and stop often to swim and explore rock pools.
There is an escape route after 2 km that takes you to the lookout point, but it’s very steep and if you turn off here you miss the section that runs along the coast.
Things to look for.
There are a few places along the path with beautiful views of the coastline. You might see whales in the deep or dolphins playing in the waves. In the kloofs you hike through indigenous bush, with clear streams for drinking water and
a few pools where you can swim in summer.
You’ll spot pretty mushrooms, but if you don’t know your fungi, it’s best not to try them on your ham sandwich. Scan the treetops for Knysna turacos. You’ll probably hear one before you see it: Listen for the “caw-caw-caw” – it sounds more animal-like than bird. You might also see an otter looking for crabs in a tidal pool. Some of the trees on the route have name tags. Look for them and try to identify a few indigenous species.
The best part?
After turning away from the coast for the last time, you walk back up the hill through the woods. At the top you look back over the beautiful route you covered way down below. The view is something special.
Might I get lost?
Not easily. The route is clearly demarcated and well maintained.
What to pack?
Drinking water – about 2 ℓ should be plenty. There are streams from which you can drink, but it’s probably safest to bring your own water. It’s not absolutely necessary, but it’s always good to pack a snack. Have a picnic somewhere along the way. The first beach you encounter is sheltered and has a beautiful location. Remember your cozzie in summer – and, of course, sunblock and a hat. Also take your camera. You can post the pictures on Facebook and brag. Your friends will think you were deep in the wilderness. And, as with the Otter Trail, you can a explore the rock pools with a snorkel
and mask.
Tips?
Take your time. It’s a lovely, easy trail, and there’s no reason to rush. There are pools in the streams where you can swim, the biggest where the path heads up the hillside from the beach. (No 4 on our map). Start early when it’s still cool and linger down by the sea over lunchtime.
Kranshoek 101
How to get there:
Take the Harkerville turn-off (17 km from Knysna, direction Plettenberg Bay) on the N2; follow the Kranshoek signs for about 8 km.
Parking:
There is enough parking at the picnic site at which the trail starts and ends.
Cost:
R15 in school holidays, R8 per child. Free at other times. You don’t have to book.
Contact:
044 302 5606; 082 803 0701 in case of emergency or for information on trail conditions.
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