Boland Adventures

Embark on a scenic hike through the greenbelt of Cape Town’s southern suburbs. Beginning at Rycroft Gate, this gentle trail meanders through a mosaic of forests, riverine kloofs, and the striking Eagle’s Nest koppie. Along the way, you’ll pass through enchanting landmarks such as Cecilia Forest, Die Hel, Dieprivier, the Alphen Trail, and finally the Klaasenbosch Trail—each offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Basic Agenda:
Starting at Rycroft Gate car park, we follow a scenic footpath running parallel to Rhodes Drive, which eventually leads us into the enchanting Cecilia Forest. From there, a tranquil trail winds along the Cecilia stream, guiding us to a towering Gum Tree. At this point, the route turns toward a vast Pine plantation, before opening into a delightful path through a shady Cork Oak Forest. A gentle climb brings us to Eagle’s Nest (421m)—a perfect spot to pause, enjoy a light lunch, and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views.
The journey continues as we descend along the Hoerikwaggo Trail, arriving at Constantia Corner. From Constantia Nek, a short one‑kilometer stretch along Constantia Main Road takes us to the magical setting of Die Hel, a hidden valley surrounded by towering trees and cascades of flowers too beautiful to describe—an experience best seen in person.
From here, the hike flows into the Alphen Trail and Klaasenbosch Trail, weaving through a lush, forested valley before looping back to our starting point at Rycroft Gate.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothes. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Pack a light lunch and enjoy it at Eagle's Nest or another spot. Don't forget sun protection and a camera to capture the stunning views.

Hike Details:

- Distance: 13km, circular
- Total elevation gain: +/- 420m
- Grade 2B hike
- Duration: approximately 6-7 hours, depending on length of rest breaks.
- Difficulty: Intermediate hike, good fitness required, mostlt accessible paths, sure footedness required.

Fee to join hike: R70.
Non-South Africans: cash only for facilitation fee.
Whatsapp proof of payment to Elaine (083 338 3022) or cash on the day.
Reference: Your name and Greenbelt
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Bring along: Hat, warm jacket, food, coffee/tea/cooldrink/2 lt water, medical kit.
Rain cancels.

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.

Join us on an exhilarating journey through a picturesque kloof, wander beneath the shimmering canopy of silver trees, and ascend towards the majestic peaks of Vlakkenberg, where sweeping panoramas will leave you breathless.

On the lower slopes of Vlakkenberg, just above Groot Constantia, lies a remarkable silver tree forest—its existence largely thanks to the dedication of Alf Morris.
Together with a team of volunteers, Alf worked tirelessly to clear vast swathes of invasive vegetation from these hillsides.
Sixty years ago, silver trees blanketed Vlakkenberg, and in spring the mountain blushed with the pink blossoms of ericas.

Hike details:
- Distance: 11km, circular
- Total elevation gain: +/- 700m
- Grade 3A hike
- Duration: approximately 6-7 hours, depending on length of rest breaks.
- Difficulty: Good fitness required with mild rock scrambling sections.
Sure footedness required.

Basic agenda:
The hike begins and ends at a right-hand bend near the end of the Price Drive cul-de-sac. The trail soon leads into a picturesque wooded kloof, winding and twisting until it joins a seldom-used path. Hiking sticks prove useful as you tackle the steep steps that rise towards a contour path, where shimmering silver trees surround you in every direction. At another T-junction, the route turns left, guiding you into the final ascent towards the summit of Vlakkenberg.
We’ll pause briefly at a scenic viewpoint atop a plateau before continuing along a path that winds through dense protea bushes. From there, the trail descends gently towards Constantia Nek, where it merges with the Hoerikwaggo Trail.
The Hoerikwaggo Trail climbs steeply before leveling out as we join this path. Before heading further south, we’ll make a short detour to a koppie on the right, where striking rock formations and massive boulders surround a trig beacon, waiting to be explored.
Heading further south, the trail winds through beautiful fynbos vegetation, descending along a neatly packed stone path. It leads to a wetland crossing, before arriving at a crossroad where we continue further south until a tarred road is reached.
This tarred Service Road climbs towards the radio masts above Constantiaberg. At this intersection, we take two consecutive left turns, leading us back to the wetland we crossed earlier. From there, we retrace our steps along the familiar path before taking a detour to the trig beacon at Vlakkenberg Peak, where sweeping views once again awaits.
The path continues through dense protea bushes, at times forming a natural tunnel, until we reach a T-junction. Here, we turn right to begin the descent back into the silver tree forest. Take care along this stretch, as the loose gravel can be tricky. Once among the silver trees again, we pass the plaque honoring Alf Morris before completing the hike at the Price Drive cul-de-sac.

Fee to join hike: R70.
Non-South Africans: cash only for facilitation fee.
SA: 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 + Silvertree
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the hike.

Bring along:
Water, snacks, coffee/tee,
sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat)
layers, (a light jacket or fleece depending on weather)
emergency items, (whistle, multi-tool, and a small flashlight or headlamp)

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 unforgettable group getaway to Gifberg Holiday Farm near Van Rhynsdorp, where 12 adventurers will discover the magic of mountain trails winding through breathtaking landscapes, sparkling rock pools, ancient rock art, and vibrant seasonal wildflowers

Please do not add your name to the waiting list unless Elaine has been notified via WhatsApp at 083 338 3022.

Basic agenda:
Saturday 8 August 2026:

• Assemble at Engen Winelands Onestop Garage North and depart soon after 08:30.
• Proceed along the N7, stopping at Piketberg for a brief coffee and refueling break after 10:00
• Continue to Klawer and then finally to Gifberg Holiday Resort.
• The gravel roads leading to Gifberg Holiday Resort may become difficult to navigate in wet conditions, especially for standard sedans.
• Once we reach the farmhouse, we’ll unpack, relax, and make ourselves at home.
• Take time to explore the surroundings before heading to the braai lapa, where the evening will be spent around a campfire.

Sunday 9 August 2026:

• 08:00 – Begin hiking the Spoelgat (Pothole) Trail, followed by the Gifboom (Poison Tree) Trail.
• Expect to spend more than 5 to 6 hours to complete both the Pothole and the Poison Tree trails.
• Once back at the farmhouse, take a moment to unwind and enjoy doing nothing at all.
• Before 16:00, we’ll set out on the short yet spectacular 4 km Hamerkop Waterfall Trail. (see profile photo)
• 18:00 - Gather at the braai lapa for a sociable braai until late.

Monday 10 August 2026: (Public holiday in RSA)

• At 09:00 we will begin hiking a short section of the Bushman Trail, following the Kantoorshoek River towards the Dooring River. Our route will take us to the crossing point of the Dooring River, where we will pause before retracing our steps along the same path.
• Once we return to the overnight accommodation, we will pack up our belongings and head home.

Trails info:
Pothole and Gifberg trail.
The Pothole Trail winds on an inner loop, while the Gifboom Trail traces a broader outer loop; together, they span roughly 10 kilometers. The journey begins with a playful scramble through nooks and crannies, past striking rock formations, weaving over and under boulders, before opening onto a sweeping flat‑rock landscape that leads to the tranquil Kantoorshoek River.
Here the river has carved a miniature canyon, its walls punctuated by deep, water‑sculpted potholes that we follow briefly until reaching the River House.
From there, the Gifboom Trail picks up on the far bank, leading hikers into a thrilling journey across a varied terrain alive with uniquely adapted Nama Karoo vegetation.
The path then meanders through Rooibos fields and rugged rocky outcrops, passing over ledges and viewpoints with sweeping views. Completing its circular journey, the trail returns once more to the Rooibos fields near the chalets.

Hamerkop Trail:
This trail begins at the Riverhouse, though you can shorten the route by starting closer to the waterfall. Following the river upstream, you’ll arrive at the main Hamerkop waterfall area, where rock hopping, boulder scrambling, and river crossings lead to breathtaking rock pools. Along the way, your climbing skills will be tested, and a helping hand may come in handy. The final stretch winds through the veld, reconnecting with a jeep track before returning to the Riverhouse.

Information about the accommodation:
Both homes we will occupy offer shared accommodation and are equipped with kitchens, braai facilities, bedding, towels, cutlery, and electricity. There are no cell phone signal at the overnight accommodation.
Groothuis:

• 10 Single Beds
• 1 Double Bed
• 3 bathrooms with showers
• Linen and towels
• fully equiped kitchen
• fireplace
• braailapa

Kliphuis:

• Pax 4
• located near the swimming pool
• 2 Bedrooms
• 2 Single Beds
• 2 Double Bed
• 1 bathroom with shower.
• Linen and towels are provided
• fully equiped kitchen
• Jetmaster fireplace

Fee to join this camping and hiking event:
Total cost is R1 260 per person for the long weekend and excludes transport, fuel, food.
Please add an additional R50 when paying via SWIFT.

Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name, and Gifberg as reference.
Equipment to bring: Own food, day backpack, hiking gear, sunglasses, sturdy hiking boots, snacks and drinks during hikes. Your sense of adventure.

Cancelation Fee:
10% cancellation fee will be charged in the event of a cancellation at pre-booked overnight activities or an establishment. In addition, a refund can only be made if the customer cancels within the terms and cancellation policies of the specific overnight establishment. We usually keep a waiting list for overnight activities and will contact the people on the waiting list to find a replacement. We cannot guarantee that we will find a replacement. We reserve the right to cancel an activity due to insufficient interest, if the institution cancels it itself, or due to weather conditions, or other reasonable circumstances beyond our control – a full refund will then be made.

WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND INDEMINITY AGREEMENT:
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 adventurous day exploring the Klipspringer Trail near Rooiels. This scenic hike through mountainous fynbos vegetation is rich with unique plant life and offers
panoramic views of False Bay, stretching across the ocean and mountains.

Hike Details:
- Distance: 13 km, liniar trail. (meaning a hike that follows a trail from one point to another without returning to the starting point)
- Total elevation gain: 700 meter, no exposure to heights.
- Grade 2B hike.
- Duration: approximately 6-7 hours, depending on length of rest breaks.
- Difficulty: Good fitness is required, several rocky sections must be negotiated along the way. Bring sturdy hiking boots and hiking sticks.

Basic agenda:
Before setting off from Klippies Bay, we’ll need to leave at least two cars at the small parking area near Kogel Bay Resort, where the trail concludes.
From the parking area near Klippies Bay Day Camp, we follow a level jeep track that runs alongside a river, which we soon need to cross. The path winds through mountainous fynbos for less than 2 km before reaching a junction.
At the junction, we turn right and begin following the zigzag trail that climbs steadily toward Kogelberg, rising proudly to 1,261 meters above sea level. As the trail ascends toward the plateau, magnificent views open up over False Bay and the surrounding landscape.
On clear days, the neighboring peaks of Kogelberg—such as Sanctuary Peak, Blousteenberg, and Rooielsberg—are also visible from this trail.
Eventually, we reach the plateau, where we spend time exploring the striking rock formations and soaking in the panoramic views before descending along the same path we climbed.
Upon reaching the intersection where we previously turned toward the mountain, we now turn right and follow the shortcut back to the second trailhead near Kogel Bay Resort.
After the hike, we’ll use the two or three cars parked earlier at Kogel Bay Resort to shuttle hikers back to their vehicles at Klippies Bay.

Fee to join hike: R70.
Non-South Africans: cash only for facilitation fee.
SA:
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Reference: Your name and Klippies
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.