Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve, Franschhoek
Perdekop: The Crown Jewel in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve
Just outside the charming town of Franschhoek, the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve offers a plethora of hiking trails, but none as iconic as the Perdekop Trail.
As you lace up your hiking boots (or trail runners) and prepare for your journey on this tough but rewarding trail, you’ll find yourself on an adventure that showcases the splendour of the Western Cape winelands.
Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve
The Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve, spanning over 10,000 hectares, is a treasure of biodiversity, offering a stunning escape into nature.
Established to protect the unique flora and fauna of the region, the reserve is a haven for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers.
The Perdekop Trail, one of its most celebrated routes, is renowned for its views, diverse terrain, and the sense of achievement it offers to those who tackle its challenges.
But the reserve has other, less strenuous trails, including:
Breakfast Rock Trail: Easy 2 km
Uitkyk Trail: Moderate 6km
DuToitskop Trail: Moderate 13 km
Vista Trail: Moderate 2.5 km
Manganese Trail: Moderate 1.5 km
Cats’ Path Trail: Moderate 11 km (end-to-end)
Winelands Trail: 3.5 km
Alwynkop Trail: Easy 1km
The Reserve offers something for all fitness levels.
An Introduction to the Perdekop Trail
The Perdekop Trail is a circular route that took us through ups and ups and more ups of the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve.
Covering approximately 13 kilometers, it offered a variety of landscapes, from lush fynbos and rugged mountain terrain to panoramic views of the Franschhoek Valley.
The trail is moderately challenging – did I say there was a lot of ‘hill-upping’ – requiring good fitness and endurance. We spent a good 7 hours on the trail, including at least 8 lunch stops. Maybe 9.
Preparing For The Hike
Before you set off, it’s essential to be prepared. Here are a few tips to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable hike:
Check the Weather:
If you live in Cape Town, you’ll know we are experiencing one of the longest and wettest winters in living memory.
(It doesn’t help that we humans have weather memories like goldfish.) And to make things even spicier, Cape Town has 5 seasons in a day. On a good day.
The week leading up to our hike had been rainy with gale force winds but the weekend promised temperatures in the 20s.
The day before, while running the PUfHie Trail run, I’d had minor heat stroke coming down Tafelberg Road.
Despite the freezing morning, the day turned out beautifully sunny.
Gear Up:
Wear comfortable hiking boots/trail shoes with good grip, and dress in moisture-wicking layers. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sun protection, and carry a light rain jacket just in case.
When we got to the trailhead Sunday morning, it was cold. There was snow on the mountain. In fact, there had been snow on the top of Table Mountain earlier in the week!
It was so cold, Nicky was looking for thermals to wear over her shorts. At least her legs looked hot, even though they were frozen.
Hydrate and Nourish:
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated and pack some snacks for energy. Trail mix, energy bars, and fruit are great choices.
Dirty Toes brought enough sandwiches to feed a small army!
Navigation and Safety:
While the Perdekop Trail is well-marked, it’s helpful to have a map or GPS device. Ensure you have a basic first aid kit and let someone know your plans before you head out.
The Trailhead
The Perdekop Trail starts at the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve’s main entrance. After signing in at the gate, you’ll find the trailhead clearly marked.
The initial section of the trail is relatively gentle, allowing you to ease into the hike and enjoy the surrounding fynbos. As you ascend, the path will gradually become steeper, offering glimpses of the stunning landscapes that lie ahead.
The Ascent: Embracing the Challenge
The first part of the ascent is characterized by a steady climb through diverse vegetation.
The trail winds its way up the slopes of Perdekop, a peak that stands as a sentinel overlooking the Franschhoek Valley. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of plant species, including proteas, ericas, and various types of succulents, each adding to the vibrant tapestry of the landscape.
As you gain altitude, the trail becomes more challenging, with steeper sections and occasional rocky outcrops. Take your time and pace yourself, as the effort will be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views of the hike.
Our hike leader, Rachel, of the endless legs – we’ll name her ‘Leg-O-Lots’ – here she is with Chucky – who had to stand on a rock proper to be eye-level with his blonde Goddess – suggested we do the trail in reverse.
Blonde. Beautiful. Brilliant. Rachel-The-Wise lead the way up the path that one would normally descend.
This was a smart decision for several reasons, not least of all, we would avoid coming down a steeper section with loose rocks, but also meant we would get the hard part out of the way first.
We stopped a lot to catch our breath (my calves constantly reminding me of its PUfHie-ness) but also to admire the views – which were spectacular.
At several points we reached peaks which were not the peak.
The Summit: Panoramic Rewards
Reaching the summit of Perdekop was a moment of triumph.
The panoramic views from the top are amazing. To the north, we could see the Wemmershoek Mountain sprawling Franschhoek Valley, with its vineyards and quaint town nestled in the fertile basin.
To the south, the rugged peaks of the Hottentots-Holland mountains provided a dramatic snowy backdrop.
This range often receives snowfall during the winter months. The mountains are part of the greater Cape Fold Belt and are known for their rugged terrain, and was where we were just two weeks ago doing the Nuweberg Circuit.
The Hottentots-Holland Mountains are situated to the south of Franschhoek and extend toward the Overberg region. They form a natural barrier between the Cape Winelands and the coastal regions of the Western Cape.
We took several moments to soak in the scenery and enjoy a well-deserved rest while Louis found the only block of ice on Perdekop.
The Descent: A Gentle Conclusion
The descent from Perdekop was less strenuous than the ascent, especially since we were descending the trail that would normally be the ascent.
Nevertheless, it still required attention to footing.
The trail went through different types of vegetation, transitioning from the rocky outcrops of the summit to the more sheltered areas of the lower slopes, smothered in late winter fynbos.
I fantasised about how beautiful this trail would be in spring. It was the 1st of September, so officially, calendar Spring, in the southern hemisphere.
And what a beautiful day we were blessed with. We were suppose to the trail on 1 August but it rained buckets that day, so we postponed. Although we missed the snow, the views were still worth it.
Final Thoughts
Completing the Perdekop Trail is more than just a hike; it’s an immersion into the beauty and serenity of Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve.
This hike will take a good 7 hours out of your day. Plan accordingly.
As you return to the trailhead, take a moment to reflect on the journey.
The sense of achievement, combined with the stunning landscapes you’ve traversed, makes the Perdekop Trail truly memorable.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newcomer to the trails, the Perdekop Trail offers something special for everyone. The blend of challenging terrain, panoramic views, and the tranquil beauty of the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve creates a hiking experience that’s both invigorating and rewarding.
Embrace the adventure, take in the breathtaking vistas, and enjoy every step of your journey through one of the Western Cape’s most iconic trails.
Happy hiking!
Thanks!
Thank you, Rachel, for leading this hike.
Pic & video creds:
Aneesa
Anne-Catherine
Brenda
Dave
Ellen
Nicky
Rachel
Shanaaz
Yasmine
It’s always such a treat to read about your adventures. Your writing style with its playfulness makes it a delightful work of art. Thank you for sharing 💕
So happy you joined! May this be the first of many adventures together!
Lovely Gabieba
What are the costs, and how does one book to do the trail?
What are the costs, and how does one book to do it?
Hi Jo. The permit was R70 p/p. You can buy it online thru webtickets.
The cost of the permit is R70 per day. You can book thru webtickets or you can pay at the gate on the day.
Ook gedoen
Was warm en redelik moeilik vir my maar baie mooi
N moet vir elke stapper.
Geniet
Dankie!
I would like to know as to where this place is
Hi Mogale. This hike can be found in Franschhoek just outside Cape Town in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve.
Such stunning photos and really makes me want to do this hike. Are there any sheer drops? As, I am afraid of heights.
Hi Ella. There is no exposure on this hike. Just lovely views.
The Perdekop looks like an awesome hike with stunning views. Definitely something that I would like to do however I have a fear of heights. Are there any sheer cliff drops?
No sheer drops. No exposure. You will be fine. Its a gradual ascent but quite long so you need to be reasonably fit. Its a long day. Maybe start with shorter hikes.