Boland Adventures

Grading: 2B, 14km
Situated in the Hottentots Holland mountain range on the outer edge of Stellenbosch, Jonkershoek MTO offers all types of outdoor enthusiasts with a world class trail network to explore and enjoy. A combination of gravel roads and tracks, takes you through a scenic route, ascending 600 meters to the bench at the Saaltjie, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains like Square Tower Peak, Twin Peaks, Virgin Peaks, Banhoek Peak, Stellenboschberg and the Jonkershoek valley below. You'll be surrounded by new plant growth and possibly sharing the trail with mountain bikers at some points. It's important to stay together and be mindful of your surroundings and uncoming traffic. Consider bringing a trekking pole to help with the ascent and any uneven terrain.

Basic agenda:
Starting at the carpark near the entrance of Jonkershoek MTO, we pick up the Yellowwood trail and follow this trail along the Lambrechts Kloof until a gravel road is reached. Turn right at a sign indicating the hikers footpath and continue further passing by a beautiful weir and keep following the Lambrechts Kloof river. The footpath gradually ascends to a gravel road that brings us to the Irish Climb Trail. The Irish trail is a dual-directional trail allowing for mountain bikers to climb up and trail runners/hikers to move in whichever direction they desire. Trail users need to be always aware of oncoming traffic. It is an easy, beautiful scenic trail for all levels of trail runners and hikers. Another gravel road is reached yet again and from here we head towards the bench at the Saaltjie. The views from the bench are magnificent and it is a perfect spot to have a coffee break while admiring the spectacular views across the valley. Just behind the bench, Square Tower Peak stands proud at 1126 meters.

After having lunch at Saaltjie, we head back with the same Irish Climb trail and connect with other footpaths passing through forestry and gradually descend along Bosboukloof and Abdolskloof.
Shortly before long we're back at Lambrechts Kloof where we started our hike and then finally to the carpark.

Fee to join hike: Permit fee: R65 paid at the gate of Jonkershoek MTO on the day of the event. Wildcards do not apply.
Facilitation fee: R70. Cash on the day or EFT on the day:
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name, surname and Irish

Bring along: Hat, warm jacket, food, coffee/tea/cooldrink/2 lt water, First aid kit.
Rain cancels.

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accepted our Indemnity as below.

The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The participant waives and releases the organizer from liability for ordinary negligence relating to the inherent risks of adventure activities. The participant agrees to follow all safety instructions, rules, and directions given by the organizer. Misbehavior, including reckless conduct, substance abuse, or harassment, may result in removal from the event without refund. The participant confirms they are physically fit and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions. The organizer may require medical clearance for certain activities. The participant acknowledges that personal accident or medical insurance is their own responsibility. The participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer against any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:
the participant’s own misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules, damage caused to property or injury to other participants due to the participant’s actions.

Lace up your boots and join us for an unforgettable hike through the Silvermine Nature Reserve! This moderately challenging adventure is perfect for reasonably fit hikers and will take you to the summits of both Bokkop and Spitskop, where breathtaking views await. Along the way, you’ll discover the historic Jagger Walk Memorial, wander through valleys rich with fynbos, and eventually enjoy a tranquil stroll around the Silvermine Dam.
The Jagger Walk Memorial in Silvermine Nature Reserve commemorates Sir John William Jagger, who played a key role in conserving the Cape’s natural heritage. It is located along the Jagger Walk trail near Silvermine Dam.

Hike details:

• 12 km cicular grade 2B trail with an total elevation of 340 meters.
• Intermediate hike, requiring good fitness following accesible paths.
• Trail consists of loose sandy paths, stony and sometimes rocky sections.
• Bring proper hiking shoes and hiking sticks.

Basic agenda:
Beginning at the parking area inside Silvermine Nature Reserve, near the entrance gate, we set out along the Old Wagon Trail, descending southward until it meets a footpath leading to Bokkop. A short scramble brings us to the summit, after which we return to the Old Wagon Trail and continue toward another path that winds toward Spitskop. This trail meanders through a valley rich with fynbos, eventually reaching an intersection. A gentle climb leads us to Spitskop, where sweeping views stretch across Noordhoek, Cape Point Vineyards, and the distant coastline.
After pausing to enjoy the panorama, we retrace our steps along the familiar path before pressing further into the elevated valley, now framed by smaller peaks such as Noordhoek Lower Peak, Falcon Peak, and Baboon Peak. Eventually, the route joins a gravel path that descends toward Silvermine Dam. Here, we circle the water’s edge before concluding the hike with a tranquil return along the Silvermine Riverwalk to the car park.

Fee to join hike: R70. Cash on the day or EFT on the day:
Daily entrance fee at Silvermine Nature Reserve for South African residents is R44 per adult while international visitors pay R200 per adult entrance fee. Valid Wild Cards or My Green Cards are accepted for free entry.
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name + Bok
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the hike.

Bring along: Hat, food, coffee/tea/cooldrink/2 lt water, first aid kit, Rehidrat sachets, sturdy hiking boots.

Safety is a team effort:
The hike leader is dedicated to guiding you safely, but your safety is a collective responsibility. To ensure everyone's well-being, please remain with the group at all times and follow instructions. Let's work together to make this a safe and enjoyable hike for all.

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accepted our Indemnity as below.
The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The participant waives and releases the organizer from liability for ordinary negligence relating to the inherent risks of adventure activities. The participant agrees to follow all safety instructions, rules, and directions given by the organizer. Misbehavior, including reckless conduct, substance abuse, or harassment, may result in removal from the event without refund. The participant confirms they are physically fit and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions. The organizer may require medical clearance for certain activities. The participant acknowledges that personal accident or medical insurance is their own responsibility. The participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer against any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:
the participant’s own misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules, damage caused to property or injury to other participants due to the participant’s actions.

Join us for an exhilarating 9km circular trail starting at Rhodes Memorial, winding past the historic King’s Blockhouse, and leading us to the thrilling Knife’s Edge and Minor Peak.
This hike is not for the faint-hearted — expect exposure to heights, steep climbs, and breathtaking views that will reward your courage and skill. If you love adventure, challenge, and the camaraderie of fellow mountain enthusiasts, this is the trail for you!

Hike details:

• 9 km cicular grade 3C expert hike with an total elevation gain of 700 meters.
• good fitness required
• sure footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.

Basic agenda:
Starting from the parking area at Rhodes Memorial, we follow a trail that gradually climbs over rocky terrain toward the Contour Path, crossing two gravel roads along the way. The path levels out before passing through a weathered, rusted turnstile that leads us to The King’s Blockhouse—a historic military outpost once used by the British to guard the Cape against Dutch invasion.
After a brief pause at the Blockhouse, we begin the ascent of Mowbray Ridge. This section demands careful scrambling and a steady head for heights, as the trail rises steeply past the ruined Fire Lookout, the Devil’s Peak Traverse, and the 700-Meter Traverse. Approaching Knife’s Edge, the ridge narrows dramatically, offering breathtaking views on either side of the slender ledge. Boulder hopping and scrambling bring us to a steep rock face just below Minor Peak, which we climb cautiously to reach the summit.
At the top of Minor Peak, we rest and take in the sweeping vistas before descending a rough, zigzagging trail that feels more like bushwhacking than following a marked path. This descent reconnects us with the 700-Meter Traverse, leading to the Saddle of Table Mountain and onward to Oppelskop, where we pause again to enjoy the spectacular scenery. From here, we continue toward the Contour Path, looping back past King’s Blockhouse just below Woodstock Cave. Finally, we retrace our familiar route to the Rhodes Memorial car park, completing the circuit.

Fee to join hike: R70. Cash on the day or EFT on the day:
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name + Minor
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the hike.

Bring along: Hat, food, coffee/tea/cooldrink/2 lt water, first aid kit, Rehidrat sachets, sturdy hiking boots.

Safety is a team effort:
The hike leader is dedicated to guiding you safely, but your safety is a collective responsibility. To ensure everyone's well-being, please remain with the group at all times and follow instructions. Let's work together to make this a safe and enjoyable hike for all.

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accepted our Indemnity as below.
The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The participant waives and releases the organizer from liability for ordinary negligence relating to the inherent risks of adventure activities. The participant agrees to follow all safety instructions, rules, and directions given by the organizer. Misbehavior, including reckless conduct, substance abuse, or harassment, may result in removal from the event without refund. The participant confirms they are physically fit and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions. The organizer may require medical clearance for certain activities. The participant acknowledges that personal accident or medical insurance is their own responsibility. The participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer against any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:
the participant’s own misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules, damage caused to property or injury to other participants due to the participant’s actions.

Join us for an exhilarating 11 km circular hike through the breathtaking Kalk Bay Mountains. This route promises spectacular scenery, fascinating caves, and a good dose of scrambling fun. This hike is designed for those with good fitness levels and a love for adventure. Expect a mix of mountain paths, cave entrances, and sections that will challenge your coordination and scrambling ability—all rewarded with unforgettable views and experiences.

Hike Details:
- Distance: 11km, circular
- Total elevation gain: +/- 540
- Grade 2B hike
- Duration: approximately 4-5 hours, depending on length of rest breaks.
- Difficulty: During this hike, we will visit several caves that require solid scrambling skills and strong hand–eye coordination. Please note that we will only explore the cave entrances rather than conducting deep investigations inside. The remainder of the trail demands a good level of fitness, so participants should be prepared for a physically challenging but rewarding experience.

Basic agenda:
This circular trail begins at the Echo Valley signboard on Boyes Drive, just above Kalk Bay. The route starts with a steep climb up many steps, following a mountain stream until reaching the junction at Weary Willy’s. From here, we take the right-hand path, continuing past Rock Shelter toward the Spes Bona Valley junction. Entering Spes Bona Valley, the trail leads onto a wooden boardwalk beneath a low canopy of Milkwood trees. Kroon se Bos offers a perfect spot for a coffee break before we continue, passing Jubilee Cave and Erica Cave overhead. Shortly after Prism Cave, we turn left toward Ridge Peak, which rises proudly to 507 meters on our left. Eventually, we arrive at the Amphitheatre, where we explore Robin Hood Cave and Egyptian Cave, located only a short distance apart. Please exercise caution when approaching Robin Hood Cave—the wet, moss-covered rocks at its entrance can be hazardous. Egyptian Cave, though less familiar, lies just a few meters away and makes for an intriguing stop.
After completing our caving adventure at the Amphitheatre, we follow the Kleintuinkop trail briefly before descending toward Dooiemanspad (Dead Man’s Path). This section drops slightly below Kleintuinkop until we reach a faint track leading to Dassie Kasteel Cave. After a short visit, we retrace our steps to Dooiemanspad and continue along another faint path toward Blokhuiskop. Here, spectacular rock formations dominate the landscape, and Fynbos vegetation is beginning to recover after recent devastation. From Blokhuiskop, we follow an elevated, scenic trail through beautifully sculpted rock formations until reaching another junction. Turning left and then right, we approach Devil’s Pit, which we pass by before continuing eastward. Soon, we reach the southern entrance of Boomslang Cave. A short descent brings us to another junction, where we turn left to return to Echo Valley. This section requires mild scrambling to navigate safely. From Echo Valley, we follow the path back to our starting point at Boyes Drive, completing the loop.

Fee to join hike: R70.
Please add an additional R50 when paying via SWIFT.
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Reference: Your name and Echo
Branch code: 470010

Bring along: Pack your hiking gear as you would for a normal day hike, including sturdy shoes, sunblock, snacks, a sun hat, and sunglasses

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accept our Indemnity as below:
The participant understands that adventure activities (including but not limited to hiking, climbing, camping, water sports, and outdoor excursions) carry inherent risks of injury, illness, or property damage. The Participant voluntarily chooses to participate, fully aware of these risks. The participant waives and releases the organizer from liability for ordinary negligence relating to the inherent risks of adventure activities. The participant agrees to follow all safety instructions, rules, and directions given by the organizer. Misbehavior, including reckless conduct, substance abuse, or harassment, may result in removal from the event without refund. The participant confirms they are physically fit and have disclosed any relevant medical conditions. The organizer may require medical clearance for certain activities. The participant acknowledges that personal accident or medical insurance is their own responsibility. The participant agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the organizer against any claims, damages, or expenses arising from:
the participant’s own misconduct, negligence, or breach of rules, damage caused to property or injury to other participants due to the participant’s actions.