Whale Season Beckons: Explore the New Fynbos Trail Section

Hey there! If you’re itching for an incredible hiking adventure along the stunning Overberg coastline, I’ve got some great news for you. Brace yourself because the month of July is an absolute gem for all the passionate whale watchers out there. Trust me, there’s something truly magical about witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, right?

The Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy is a stunning natural area that now includes a seven-kilometer coastal stretch. This new addition allows you to experience the incredible beauty of the coast while also providing an excellent opportunity for whale watching. From June to December, southern right whales come to Walker Bay to mate and give birth, making it one of the best places in the world to witness these majestic creatures.

When you embark on the trail, you’ll be treated to breathtaking sights. As you hike along the high coastal cliffs, you’ll have a front-row seat to the incredible whale action happening just below. The water is deep, and the whales are so close that you can see everything without needing binoculars. It’s a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Not only are the whales amazing, but the scenery itself is also mind-blowing. As you make your way along the trail, you’ll encounter jagged rocks that rise up like enormous teeth. The waves crashing into the narrow gullies add to the dramatic atmosphere. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different world.

Whether you choose to take a guided tour or venture out on your own, the coastal section of the Walker Bay Fynbos Conservancy is a must-see. The combination of the majestic whales, stunning cliffs, and unique rock formations make it an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss this chance to witness the wonders of nature up close.

When I added this part to the full trail, I spent the night at a guest house in De Kelders. It was so exciting to start the trail early in the morning! As I was hiking, I came across Duiwelsgat, a cave with a deep exit hole. The cave can be explored when the tide is low, and let me tell you, the view of the 20-meter-deep hole from below is truly amazing!

The sandy expanse of Die Plaat, a long beach between De Kelders and Hermanus, stretches out before me as I traverse the final section of cliff. Soon, I’ll descend the steps to Klipgat – a massive cave that was once a shelter for strandlopers and has since been excavated by archaeologists.

After a short walk along the beach, I enter the dunes and make my way to Growing the Future, a sustainable agriculture and life-skills training college located on Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. This is where the core trail begins, and from here, I’ll trek another six-and-a-half kilometers through coastal strandveld, ancient milkwood forests, and limestone fynbos to reach Fynbos Retreat – my overnight spot.

At Fynbos Retreat, I’m in for a treat – pizza and a tasting of the local wines. It’ll be a well-deserved reward after a challenging day of hiking through diverse landscapes.

When I think about Bhodi Khaya Retreat, it immediately brings to mind a sense of tranquility. It’s a place where you can truly escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

On the second day of the Fynbos Trail, I had the pleasure of experiencing the beauty of Witvoetskloof forest as I embarked on a 12-kilometer walk. The path led me to a breathtaking waterfall, and from there, I hiked up Grootberg. The scenery was simply awe-inspiring. As I made my way down Flower Valley, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace and serenity. Finally, I arrived at the peaceful oasis that is Bodhi Kaya Retreat.

On the last day of the trail, the journey continued with a leisurely six-kilometer walk through Baviaans Fontein Valley. The enchanting indigenous forests and fynbos-covered hills surrounded me, creating a truly magical atmosphere. The trail concluded at Grootbos, where I enjoyed a delicious lunch on the terrace overlooking Walker Bay.

Here are some important facts about the Fynbos Trail:

Cost: The two-and-a-half-day Fynbos Trail ranges in price from R825 for a self-guided experience to R2,400 per person for a guided tour. If you want to include the coastal section, it will cost an additional R650 to R1,150.

Distance: The trail covers a total distance of 33 kilometers over three days. However, if you choose not to do the coastal section, the distance is reduced to 26 kilometers.

Difficulty: The trail is considered easy to moderate, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, you can enjoy the beauty of the Fynbos Trail.

Contact:
082-411-1008, www.walkerbaytrails.co.za

Image by Shaen Adey.

Hello there! Need to get in touch with us? Here’s how you can reach us:

Contact us:

Phone: 082-411-1008

Website: www.walkerbaytrails.co.za

Feel free to give us a call or visit our website if you have any questions, concerns, or just want to know more about what we do. We’re here to help!

By the way, we’d like to show you this amazing photo taken by Shaen Adey. It beautifully captures the essence of what we have to offer. Take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty!

Remember, if you need anything, just reach out to us. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!