Boland Adventures

The Breede Escape River Camp is nestled on a working farm in the heart of the Breede River Valley, perfectly positioned near the charming country towns of Bonnievale, Swellendam, Robertson, and Montagu. The surrounding area invites you to enjoy scenic drives and a wide variety of activities. As you wander through the farm, you’ll be greeted by friendly Jersey cows and discover fields where vegetable seeds are carefully cultivated.
Join us at Breede Escape River Camp near Bonnievale for a countryside getaway. Take time to slow down, reconnect with nature, and appreciate life in a relaxed and safe setting.

Basic agenda:

Friday 20 February 2026:
The gates at Breede Escape River Camp open at 14:00. Choose your camping spot on the lush grass beneath the trees along the banks of the Breede River. Once you’ve set up camp, take time to explore the braai lapa and wander through the surrounding area. As evening approaches, we will gather around the campfire, and enjoy a sociable braai under the stars.

Saturday 21 February 2026:
We will depart from Breede Escape River Campsite and travel along the old Swellendam road to Bontebok National Park. At the entrance office, we’ll pay the fee before continuing to Die Stroom picnic area beside the river. The Bushbuck Trail begins and ends here. This out-and-back trail follows the Breede River through dense sweetthorn thickets, with a viewing deck offering a perfect spot to pause for a coffee break. Along the way, it merges with the Acacia Trail to form a loop, eventually reconnecting with the path we started on.
Once back at Die Stroom, we’ll enjoy a refreshing swim in the Breede River before setting off on a self-drive game drive through Bontebok National Park. Along the way, you can expect to encounter bontebok, grey rhebuck, and red hartebeest, as well as smaller mammals and an impressive variety of birdlife.
Our game drive will conclude the visit to Bontebok National Park before we return to Breede Escape River Camp. Back at the campsite, the fun continues with swimming and canoeing on the river, followed by gathering around the campfire for another sociable braai under the evening sky.

Sunday 22 February 2026:
We’ll set out on the gentle 5 km Toktokkie Trail, winding toward a koppie that overlooks the campsite. A last refreshing swim in the Breede River will offer the perfect farewell to our weekend before packing up and journey home, carrying with us the joy of shared moments.

At the campsite:
You will have use of a kitchen work space with washing up facility and a microwave, electrical kettle, induction plate and freezer. Please bring all other equipment of your own like, crockery, cutlery and glasses.
There are sunny and shaded camping sites available with ten electrical supply boxes. Spacious thatched roof area with indoor braai, some tables and chairs and indoor braai. Private jetty with two double kayaks. Private campfire spot on the bank. DSTV at the indoor braai.

Fee to join this camping and hiking event:
Total cost is R520 per person for the weekend and excludes transport, fuel, food and entrance fee to Bontebok National Park.
South African Citizens and Residents without a wildcard pay R61 to enter the Bontebok National Park. International (non-South African) Citizens pay R206 for an entrance fee.
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 Escape as reference.
Please notify Elaine by emailing her at bormanelaine@gmail.com if you are interested to attend this event.
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the event.

Equipment to bring:
Camping gear, day backpack, hiking sticks, warm clothes, own food for 3 days, hiking gear, torches, headlamps, mattress, cooking utensils. Camping chairs, own drinking water, cooling facilities like cooler boxes, rechargeable equipment, braai grids.
Bring your own drinking water, cooling facilities like cooler boxes, rechargeable equipment, braai grids, own cutlery and glasses

WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY:
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.

Experience sun, sand, and surf on an exhilarating hike from The Glen to Clifton’s four beaches, Maiden’s Cove, and Glen Beach — where adventure meets the ocean and the notorious south‑easterly wind never blows. Just around the corner, Bantry Bay enjoys its reputation as a haven, famously sheltered from Cape Town’s powerful “Cape Doctor".

Hike Details:
- Distance: 10km, circular
- Total elevation gain: +/- 250m
- Grade 2A hike
- Duration: approximately 4-5 hours, depending on length of rest breaks.
- Difficulty: Intermediate fitness required with mild rock scrambling at Maidons Cove and Glen Beach. Sure footedness required to descend lots of steps at Bantry Steps and Clifton's Second Beach.

Basic agenda:
Soon after leaving the Roundhouse restaurant, the trail leads into a shady picnic area beside the Diepsloot River. From there, we follow a footpath that climbs gradually until it meets Kloof Road. Continuing uphill along this tarred road brings us to a contour path beneath Lion’s Head. Once known as the Lion’s Head Pipe Track, the route still reveals remnants of old cast‑iron pipes along the way. The path rewards hikers with sweeping views—Clifton stretching out to the left, and the rugged slopes of Lion’s Head rising just above to the right.
After a short while, the footpath merges onto Avenue Saint Leon, guiding us toward the Bantry Steps. Descending these steps brings us down to Victoria Road. Walking along the pedestrian path while facing the oncoming traffic, we follow the road briefly until reaching the turnoff to Clifton’s Second Beach. Once there, we’ll pause to enjoy a refreshing swim in the cold seawater.
Clifton’s beaches are numbered First to Fourth from north to south, with First Beach being the furthest north. Although these beaches are generally considered safe, swimming in the cold Atlantic waters is refreshing but short-lived for most people.
The four beaches are divided by granite outcrops, forming sheltered coves that protect against wind and waves. After a short rest, we continue to Fourth Beach, proudly flying its Blue Flag in recognition of safety and cleanliness. A bit of boulder scrambling brings us to Maiden’s Cove, where the path ahead depends on the tide. We can either follow the lower trail along the sand or tackle the more technical upper route over rocky terrain. Soon, Glen Beach comes into view. From there, we cross Victoria Road once more and finish our hike at The Roundhouse Restaurant—arriving just in time to enjoy a refreshing drink.

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 Bantry
Branch code: 470010

Bring along: Pack your hiking gear as you would for a normal day hike, including sturdy shoes, a bathing costume, towel, 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.

Pack your bags for a weekend of wonder. From the peaceful charm of Onrus Caravan Park, we’ll set out to discover Fernkloof Nature Reserve. Here you will find spectacular views over Walker Bay, winding hiking trails, and a huge variety of plants.
Come join us for camping, hiking, and unforgettable memories in Hermanus and Stanford!

Basic agenda:

Friday 6 March 2026:
Guests may check in at Onrus Caravan Park from 14:00. Please select a comfortable campsite between numbers 79071.1; 79071.2; 79071.3, and set up your tents so that each site accommodates up to four campers. Most lawn sites are shaded and equipped with electricity points for your convenience. During the afternoon, you’re welcome to explore the scenic coastal hiking trail from Onrus River Caravan Park to Davies Pool or the Onrus River Mouth.
By 18:00, gather around the fire for a sociable braai and enjoy the evening together.

Saturday 7 March 2026:
By 08:00 we will drive 13 km to Dutchies Summer Lounge in Hermanus, the starting and ending point of our hike.
This 12 km circular route features a total elevation gain of 420 meters and blends the scenic coastal Cliff Path with the mountain trails beneath Mt. Cyclopia and Mosselberg. Along the way, we’ll need to cross a few busy roads and walk short stretches through residential streets to connect the contour path with the Cliff Path, completing the loop.
Once on the Contour Path, we turn onto a zigzag trail that climbs steadily toward Mosselberg, rewarding us with breathtaking panoramas across the entire route. At the plateau, the descent begins into Droë Kloof (Dry Ravine), where sweeping views open up above the Three Mossel River Dams. From there, the trail follows the Mossel River, eventually leading to the Cliff Path after crossing a busy road once more.
Next, we follow the Cliff Path, where the sights and sounds of the Hermanus coast unfold. Along the way, you’ll encounter fascinating landmarks such as Rykmansklip and Laagwaterbankie. Rykmansklip—known as Rich Man’s Rock—earned its name because only a rich fisherman could afford the constant replacement of tackle lost at this treacherous spot. Laagwaterbankie, or Low Tide Rock, reveals itself as a fishing haven accessible only during low tide.
As the hike continues, we pass Langbaai, Karwessa, Platbank, Kammabaai, Voëlklip Beach, Rowweklip, and Hardlopersbank before concluding at Dutchies—arriving just in time to enjoy a well‑earned, ice‑cold refreshment.
Back at Onrus Caravan Park, we’ll take a break before gathering around the campfire for a lively braai that carries on late into the night.

Sunday 8 March 2026:
We need to be packed up and ready to leave Onrus Caravan Park by 10:30, in accordance with their rules. Our next stop is African Queen River Cruises near Stanford, located 32 km further east.
The leisurely and scenic river cruise begins at 12:00 and lasts approximately two and a half hours. Safe parking is available and a security guards with each trip at the launch site.
You need to bring your own picnic basket with food and drinks AND don’t forget your sun screen, swimming clothes & towels. The African Queen River Cruise put their passengers’ safety first!
The African Queen is SAMSA surveyed with the necessary emergency gear on board.

You can choose whether to join the African Queen River cruise, but the price isn’t part of the camping package.
As our river cruise comes to an end, we’ll share our final goodbyes and carry home the memories of a wonderful weekend.

Fee to join this camping and hiking event:
Total cost is R420 per person for the weekend and excludes transport, fuel, food and the river cruise,
AFRICAN QUEEN RIVER CRUISE: R275 pp.
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 Onrus as reference.

Equipment to bring: Camping gear, day backpack, hiking sticks, warm clothes, food and snacks for 3 days, hiking gear, torches, headlamps, mattress, cooking utensils.
Please inform Marius or Elaine of any medical conditions before the hike.

For more information about the Fynbos at Fernkloof Nature Reserve and The Cliff path at Hermanus, open the following links:
https://www.hermanus.co.za/popular-places/fernkloof-nature-reserve
https://samscapesphotography.co.za/category/fernkloof-nature-reserve/
https://www.hermanus-history-society.co.za/2018/09/19/hermanus-cliff-path-whats-in-a-name/

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.

The 10 km Miaspoort Trail leads hikers to the Italian Cross, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Walking this trail is not only a chance to experience the natural beauty of the region but also an opportunity to honor the legacy of the Italian prisoners of war who helped build the Du Toit's Kloof pass between Paarl and Worcester.

Hike Details:
- Out and back, 11 km hike.
- Elevation gain: about 860 meters.
- Grade 3B hike
- Duration: The hike typically takes about 4-5 hours, depending on the number of rest breaks and time spent exploring.
- Difficulty: This is an expert hike featuring mild bouldering and occasional scrambling sections along clear mountain paths. The small overnight shelter can be reached by leaving the main trail and following an off‑trail route.

Highlights:

• Enjoy stunning views from Hugeonootkop (1318 masl)
• Off trail section to a secret overnight shelter
• Beautiful rock formations and flora.
• Standing next to the cross on top of Hugeonootkop with awesome views.

Basic agenda:
The hike begins from a small parking area, where we’ll turn left at a Cape Nature signpost. Soon after, we’ll tackle a challenging stretch of mountain scree—sturdy boots and steady balance are essential here. Crossing the Miaspoort River provides a chance to refill water before the major climb begins around the 2 km mark. An early start ensures this section is mostly shaded.
Just before the 3 km point, we’ll reach a plateau, though the ascent continues beyond. At one stage, we’ll leave the main trail and head east across an open field for about 800 meters to reach the overnight shelter.
Here, we’ll have time to explore the shelter and its surroundings, dotted with striking rock formations and gullies.
Returning to the main path, the climb resumes toward Huguenootkop. Along the way, we’ll be surrounded by dramatic rock features and rewarded with sweeping views to the south and east.
Our destination is the imposing stainless steel cross at the edge of Huguenootkop, overlooking the Paarl Valley. It’s the perfect spot for lunch and quiet reflection.
After a well-earned rest, we’ll retrace our steps along the clear path. Take care on the steep, rocky descent toward the Miaspoort River—trekking poles can be especially useful here.
Once back at the river, we can enjoy its cool water and shaded banks before tackling the final, stretch to the parking area. Be mindful of the scree section on the way out.

Fee to join hike: R70. Cash on the day, EFT on the day; or via PayShap: 074 449 7464, M Carstens, Capitec.
Cape Nature permit fee: R50.
We will arrange a permit at Cape Nature before the event takes place.
Permits can not be bought on the day of the event.

Once Elaine has received proof of payment, she will moove you to the going list.

Name of Account: Boland Adventures
Capitec Savings account nr: 173 138 2780
Branch code: 470010
Reference: Your name and Mias.

Bring along: appropriate clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, snacks and 2 liter water, sun protection, hiking stick/trekking poles.

Indemnity:
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.