East Fort to Chapmans Peak hike and cycle event, Hout Bay

The area around Chapman's Peak Drive and Hout Bay is rich in history, particularly due to the coastal fortifications established there.
The East Fort was established around 1782 initially by a French Regiment who were in control of the Cape at the time.
The fort saw action on September 17, 1795 when its guns, along with those at West Fort, fired upon the British warship HMS Echo, forcing it to withdraw from the bay. Although the Dutch forces at the Cape capitulated to the British later that same day, the successful defense of Hout Bay is a notable historical event.

Join us for a day of adventure filled with history and culture to explore some of the most awesome sights around Hout Bay in the Western Cape.

Hike Details:
- Distance: 12km
- Elevation gain: 710m
- Grade 3B hike
- Duration: approximately 6-7 hours, depending on length of rest breaks.
- Difficulty: Intermediate hike, good fitness and sure footedness required, following mountain hiking paths.

Basic agenda:
Before we begin our hike, please ensure that all bicycles are securely locked at the parking area where the hike will conclude.
For participants who prefer not to cycle back, arrangements can be made to have a vehicle parked at the conclusion point to return to the starting location.

We will first visit the 8 x 18-pounder cannons located just below Chapman's Peak Drive. Our next stop will be at the East Fort, from where we will follow a stony footpath passing the Foresters cottage towards the old Manganese mines. This path offers spectacular views of Hout Bay and the surrounding areas.
Once we reach Alfie's Path, we will head south east.
Our first break will be at the 3 km mark when we reach Blackburn Ravine. After this, the path descends steeply and continues along a contour path below Noordhoek Peak. We will occasionally pass through small pockets of forest that offer magnificent views.
Please note that there will be no water available in these forest sections, so ensure you bring enough water with you.
The contour path ultimately leads to a T-junction, where we'll turn towards the sea for a brief period before continuing on to Chapman's Peak. From there, the path ascends steeply, bringing Lower Chapman's Peak into view. The final ascent to Chapman's Peak, which stands at 593 meters, will then follow.
Chapman's Peak is named after John Chapman, who was the captain's mate on a British ship called the "Consent."
In 1607, the "Consent" was unable to move in what is now Hout Bay due to a lack of wind.
John Chapman was sent ashore in a small boat to find provisions. The mountain, and the famous drive that was later constructed, adopted his name.
After a break at Chapman's Peak, we will head back in the same direction we came from earlier. We will then take the turn-off toward Chapman's Peak Drive, which gradually descends and becomes steeper as we get closer to the car park.

Please note that this hiking event is a linear hike, meaning the trail ends 4 km from the starting point. We will cycle back to the start along Chapman's Peak Drive, passing through the tollgate free of charge. Otherwise, we will need to organise transport back to the start.

Fee to join hike: R50. Cash on the day, EFT on the day; or via PayShap: 074 449 7464, M Carstens, Capitec:
Name of Acc: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name and chappies.

Bring along: Hat, snacks, coffee/tea/cooldrink/2 lt water, sturdy hiking boots.

Indemnity: When attending this hike you indicate that you have read and accepted our Indemnity as below.
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the hike.
WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY, ASSUMPTION OF RISK, AND INDEMINITY AGREEMENT
This agreement includes a release of liability and waiver legal rights and deprives you of the right to sue Boland Adventures, and other parties.