In my previous post about the Hidden Gem which is the Whale Trail I described the trail in general, today I’m going to give you a quick glimpse into what you can expect on the hike over the 5 days.
The first 2 days finds you between Fynbos and tall Protea plants, we didn’t go in the flowering season but I could just imagine the hills, decked with Protea’s in full bloom must look like. Cape Vultures are plentiful as well as birds-eye views of the Breede River and surrounding lands which are breathtaking. At the end of day 2 you make your way down from the hills to the ocean and spend the night right on the beach in two A-Frame huts. We were lucky enough to watch a school of dolphins frolicking in the waves not even 100 metres from where we were sitting. You fall asleep to the sound of waves that night and every night to the end of the hike.
On day 3 you spend your time gazing in awe from high up on cliffs overlooking the ocean. Looking ahead along the path rewards you with views of the land jutting in and out of the sea while looking back uncovers that you have just been walking over caves dug into the cliffs by the waves, a scene which really can’t be described properly in words.
Day 4 begins with a 7km walk on the beach which seems strenuous but is really quite fun if you examine all the debris, organic and man-made, which is washed up on the beach. The terrain changes so dramatically from the cliffs the day before that you feel like you are in another world all together which could almost be true when you get to the overnight hut which is a stone cottage right on the edge of a cliff surrounded by the ocean on 3 sides - the absolute stillness is such a rare gem in our hectic lives.
The last day is short and takes you past numerous swimming holes which you can wallow in until the bus takes you from the end of the hike at Koppie Alleen back to your cars, most of which have little baboon hand prints on from the little scoundrels making a play gym out of your car. To be honest I could have quite easily turned around at the end and walked for another 5 days, I seem to do quite well without a cell phone or laptop to disturb me…
I hope that this has peaked your interest in doing this hike, it really will leave you relaxed and rested even if it involves walking with a bag on your back for 5 days :)
Candice focuses on travel, surfing, running, dark chocolate and uncovering gems hidden in the Cape outdoors.
Steve Bolnick is recognized as one of southern Africa’s outstanding safari guides. He grew-up with a deep love for the African bush and has spent the past 29 years living and guiding in southern Africa.
Lisa Griggs writes about the hidden vineyards and the undiscovered cultivars in the Western Cape.
Nicky Coenen looks for the secret hideaways and hidden gems in Cape Town and surrounds.
Steve Robertson tracks the off the beaten track action happening around Cape Town.
Fred Roed looks for the undiscovered coffee spots in the Western Cape and rates them.
Peter has worked in the wine and spirits industry for over 40 years and is an appreciator of fine things.