I always love visiting this beautiful spot. The hiking is stunning It is very well marked with clear, scenic trails on good paths. We enjoy the Peglarae trail and usually do a morning 9km trail. There is also the option of a 6.5 km route for the Peglarae if you have limited time .The owner ,Bertus, caters for all eventualities as on the Peglarae trail alone he had 2 escape routes for those needing to return sooner. However, its worth doing the full hike as the views are amazing at the top of the mountain. There is a sign at the top for the border of Gauteng and North West where you can see Hartebeespoort dam and the surrounding area .It is panoramic and worth plenty of pics. The trail first starts by wandering through beautiful, majestic and shady trees .Some of the trees are really old with a wide girth and a special energy. There are longer hikes of 12 up to 27 km but we love our afternoon relax at the braai area. On your return if hot, there is the option of a dip in the farm dam that is in a very picturesque setting or a shower at the braai area. We love our braai at the shady braai area where wood is supplied and ,tables, benches etc. There are taps and the water is delicious as its borehole water so its gentle and my partner says it tastes like its from the center of the earth. For those who are too lazy to braai ,they have a kiosk selling cooldrinks, wraps, burgers etc. but as we are vegetarians we always bring our veggies to braai. For the beginner hikers or those wanting an easy walk there is the Kiepersol trail which ranges from 1 to 7 km. We love this magical place and will definitely be back -its a tonic for your soul. Also, the host Bertus goes out of his way to help you .It certainly deserves its high ...
Read moreStephnie and Bertie were amazing, quick and detailed response to all my questions! De Wildt trails are very close to JHB (1.25HRS) and even closer to Pretoria.I did the 12.5km Dinaneni trail with my experience: -I found the markers easy to follow and as with any trail, should you feel lost, just backtrack to your last marker and take it from there. -Stephnie checked in with me now and then which was amazing. I went on a weekday so was only one of a few people on the trail. -The first 3/so kms is very easy, hiking through a forest section of the farm. -Around 4kms/so, you start climbing the mountain. As can be expected on any mountain, there are rocks, some tricky areas where my hiking stick came in super helpfull, and here and there loose rocks as expected. It is quite a nice workout. -5.5km summit loop at the top is beautiful with various rock formations. HIKERS WITH DOGS: PLEASE CLEAN UP AFTER YOUR DOGS! Amazes me how inconsiderate some people are. One must wonder what their yards and houses look like🙄. The Loop itself is tricky at areas so pay attention where you step and take it easy to enjoy the magnificent landscape. -Last 3/so kms is mainly a decent so, be carefull. You pass by seasonal waterfalls and mountain streams which might be flowing in rainseason. My only suggestion would be to add "km's to go" markers along the route so one can pace yourself. They offer some picnic areas which looks stunning! Remeber to pack: -Sunblock (always)! -Hat. As expected, very little shade high up in the mountain. -Hiking cane (I think its called) as support up/down hill. -Enough water for a 4ish hr hike. -Empty packet to keep your trash. -DOGWALKERS, PACK YOUR POOPBAGS AND CLEAN AFTER YOUR PETS! Have...
Read moreVisited De Wildt Adventure Trails this morning (Hartebeestpoort).
We decided on The Peglerae trail which is a 9km route with a 6.5km escape route. This trail had expansive and glorious views of the surrounds and Hartebeestpoortdam. 416m elevation gain will suit a hiker with moderate fitness and experience levels. The Kiepersol trail is an alternative trail for novice hikers measuring 7.5km with escape routes at the 1km and 5km points. Experienced hikers can take on the 12.5 to 21km routes. This venue also offers multi-day hikes where you spend your evening under the stars in rustic accommodation. The trail is possibly the best marked trail I have been on to date and the venue was quite busy which results in a safe hiking experience.
Besides the views De Wildt has a wide variety of plant and tree life. We also saw animal tracks which indicate the presence of wildlife. The highlight for me was watching the vultures circling right above us. Little streams throughout and a little waterfall offer some relief from the heat for the four legged kids.
Picnic baskets can be arranged and braai facilities as well as braai packs are available once you have completed your adventure.
The cost per person will depend on the trail you choose. We paid R100 per person and were given armbands with emergency contact details. You can contact them via Facebook messenger to book, response was quick. They were extremely helpful and provided us with copies of important information such as trail options, rules and answers to faqs. You will complete an online booking form and will be provided with a booking reference number.
Another Saturday...
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