5 Hiking Trails in and Around Robertson
Surrounded by mountains and the sheer beauty of the natural landscape makes Robertson Wine Valley the perfect destination for those who enjoying hiking trails. There is no better way to be one with nature than to go exploring on foot. Our favourite hikes include trails to be explored by the whole family as well as for the adventurer. Here are our top five chosen hiking trails because a walk in nature refreshes the soul.
Bloupunt Hiking Trail
This trail offers hikers a variety of interesting features, with a constantly changing panorama which varies between ravines with mountain streams to craggy cliffs with awe-inspiring rock formations. The trail is 15,6km long and should take you between 5-9 hours to complete. At a height of 1266m, the Bloupunt summit offers a 360 degree view of the extraordinarily beautiful landscape. Midway through the trail there are two fresh water points where it is advised that you fill your water bottles, as there is no water when you reach the summit. There are also three small waterfalls on the descent from the summit, which can be reached by means of short deviations from the main trail, these are worth seeing because at this stage we’re sure that a swim will be inviting.
The Boesmanskloof Hiking Trail
The trail takes between 4-5 hours to complete and there is the pure splendour of nature to embrace. The trail includes views of the majestic Riviersonderend Mountains, with its steep gorges and the lush Greyton and McGregor valleys. Water is abundant in large rock pools. The highlight of this hike is definitely the breathtaking Oakes Falls and the lovely Cape wildflowers. Physically the trail requires a reasonable degree of fitness as it continuously ascends, descends, and contours the slopes but we highly recommend this trail for the sheer beauty of the landscape.
Badkloof Hiking Trail
Montagu’s Badkloof Trail is the path that goes between the famous hot springs, and Eyssenhuis / Ou Meul at Joubertpark. The trail extends for a manageable 2.2 kilometres, and takes approximately one hour to complete. Badkloof is characterised by fascinating rock formations as well as sport climbing routes for those that are feeling more adventurous. Being an area of such natural abundance, there is a huge variety of avian species to be found, making it a bird-lover’s delight. It’s a lovely trail for an early morning walk and will leave you feeling inspired as the landscape enamours you.
The Aasvoëlkraans Hiking Trail
This trail is situated in the picturesque Western Cape area of Montagu. Although it covers only 3.2 kilometres, it may take a little more than an hour to complete. The trail to the lookout point that exhibits views of Cogmanskloof, Fort Sydney and the tunnel, is only 430 metres long. Because this is a fairly short, manageable hike, it is particularly suited to families with children. The beauty of the entire trail lies in the bountifulness of plant and animal life in this area. Amazing faunal species include leopards, caracals, duikers, klipspringers, baboons, and hyraxes. Plant species include Erica’s, Proteas, Lilies, Gladioli, Wild Orchids and a vast variety of indigenous trees. This trail is a family outing, allow yourself to be immersed in the natural beauty that the area has to offer.
The Cogmanskloof Trail
This is viewed as one of the most rewarding hikes in the area, it will challenges you, but it is definitely doable. The spectacular views and the diverseness in vegetation make this trail unmistakably satisfying. We recommend you set a morning aside to complete the trail. As you ascend, hiking along the ridges, the summit you’ll reach is 690m above sea level and the views are breathtaking. The 360 degree view is crowned by the 1 266m-high Bloupunt, which towers over the landscape. The rest of the route is mostly downhill, with 1 or 2 small koppies to climb. The flora is diverse with a mixture of fynbos and Karoo vegetation. Be sure to attempt this trail when visiting our beautiful area, you won’t be disappointed.
There could never be wasted time spent in nature, her purpose is to nurture. Visit our home in Robertson, our hiking trails set in serene serenity won’t disappoint. As the sun rises, you’d want to be in the mountains feeling wild and free. When midday beckons it will be warm and you may feel weary, don’t fret the natural springs and waterfalls will have you feeling refreshed. As you descend you’ll have made memories comparable to none, we hope you have fun.
