Miaspoort and the overnight shelter, Du Toitskloof Pass

Italian prisoners of war played a significant role in constructing the Du Toitskloof Pass in the Western Cape during World War 2. The Italian Cross, located at Huguenootkop in the Du Toitskloof Pass Mountains was erected by these Italian prisoners of war as a memorial to their deceased comrades who died during the construction of the pass. The cross is now a prominent landmark and a popular hiking destination. Many prisoners were skilled laborers and their work on infrastructure projects like Du Toitskloof Pass and Chapmans Peak Drive showcased their expertise.
After the year, some POWs chose to remain in South Africa, contibuting to the country's cultural and economic development.
The 10 km Miaspoort Trail, takes you to the Italian Cross, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area while paying tribute to the Italian POWs who built this pass.

Hike Details:
- Out and back, 10 km hike.
- Elevation gain: about 860 meters.
- Grade 3B hike
- Duration: approximately 5-6 hours, depending on length of rest breaks and time for exploring.
- Difficulty: intermediate hike with some mild bouldering and scrambling sections, clear mountain paths. The small overnight shelter is reached by means of going off trail.

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:
Soon after we start from the small parking area, we'll turn left at a Cape Nature signpost where we'll need our permits. Following that, there's a challenging section over mountain scree, so sturdy boots and good balance will be essential. After crossing the Miaspoort River, where we can collect water, the significant climb begins around the 2 km mark. If we start early, this part of the hike should be mostly in the shade.
We'll reach a plateau just before the 3 km mark, but keep in mind there's still more climbing ahead. At a certain point, we'll leave the main path and navigate through an open field towards the overnight shelter, heading east for over 800 meters. We'll have ample time at the shelter to explore both it and the surrounding area, which is full of beautiful rock formations and gullies.
For the next part of our hike, we'll head back to the main path and continue our ascent towards Huguenootkop. We'll be surrounded by unique rock formations and enjoy fantastic views to the south and east.
Our destination is the large stainless steel cross at the edge of Huguenootkop, which offers panoramic views of the Paarl valley below. This will be an ideal spot for lunch and a moment of quiet reflection.
After a good rest, we'll return via the same clear path. Please be cautious when descending the steep, rocky sections back towards the Miaspoort river; trekking poles might be helpful here.
Once we reach the Miaspoort river, we can enjoy some refreshing cool water and lovely shade. The final section back to the cars is flat, but do take care in the scree area.

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

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, a first-aid kit, extra food and enough water (1 liter), sun protection, hiking stick/trekking poles.

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.