Out into (the) Wilderness
Trip Start
Nov 06, 2011
1
2
15
Trip End
Nov 21, 2011
Where I stayed
Pink lodge
What I did
Wilderness, Western Cape, South Africa
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
The route we wanted to do was closed so we decided to do the "Half Collared Kingfisher Trail" and the "Bosduif Loop". The trail winds along the languid, golden river, crosses it on stepping stones and finishes at a rocky pair of waterfalls. The rocks - or boulders I suppose - have that haphazard air of a few scattered pebbles but on a much larger scale. A pool between them looked very inviting but unfortunately we failed to bring swimming gear and the groups of
other people ruled out all other options.
We spotted a few canoeists along the way and decided that is our preferred activity for tomorrow, if the promised rain holds off at least.
Instead of taking the same route back we decided to take the "Bosduif Loop". It actually loops up the mountain back to the beginning - exhausting and not helped by the fact we polished off our water half way up. Why is it that once you've done that you get the thirstiest you have ever felt?
We saw some interesting birds and a snake along with the requisite stunning views from the top (given all the climbing it would have been disappointing otherwise).
I love South Africa so far. Everyone has been extremely friendly - despite us seeming to baffle the manager of our guest house at every turn. We decided to buy some booze to drink on our idyllic little patio which overlooks the Indian Ocean. The mini-mart in Wilderness had wine galore but, when we asked if they had any beer we were informed that none of the shops sell alcohol - you have to go to George for the. My kind of place!
Back at the apartment - after seemingly confounding our host once again - the clouds drew in, and we crossed our fingers that the rain would be gone by morning. The clouds make the scene all the more dramatic - steely sea, crashing waves, moody grey clouds. I wouldn't be so enthusiastic if I was still half way up that mountain.
