The Boesmanskloof Hiking Trail (What do you mean 'Again'?)

A Family Adventure

There’s something special about the Boesmanskloof Hiking Trail in the Vrolikheid Nature Reserve. Which may explain why this is my third time doing it in 12 months.

Not only does it wind through the dramatic Riviersonderend Mountains, but it also links the charming towns of Greyton and McGregor.

Although the mountains prevented an actual road from being built between the two towns, they didn’t stop the creation of this beautiful trail, which brings together nature lovers, friends, and families for a journey filled with connection and discovery.

This past weekend, we set off to explore the trail. Yes, again!

What made it even more special was the group dynamic: five kids joined us, turning the adventure into a lively family outing.

With partly cloudy skies and high humidity on Saturday 9 November 2024, we drove out from Cape Town ready for the 14 km hike, feeling the anticipation of a weekend full of laughter, connection, and a bit of adventure.

Cast Of Crazies

Greyton to McGregor

Greyton, located about 140 km from McGregor if you take the drive around the mountains, is where we began our trek.

Greyton is known for its slow-paced, picturesque charm, a place where old oaks line the streets, and heritage buildings tell stories of days gone by.

It felt like the perfect starting point for our adventure, and the kids were already buzzing with excitement as we set off. But first … the river…

With backpacks full of essentials, we began the hike across the Riviersonderend Mountains.

There’s an unmistakable sense of both peace and grandeur in these mountains; they seem timeless, solid, and yet alive with the sounds of rustling leaves, flowing water, and birdsong.

The mountains rise and fall in a jagged landscape that feels untouched, and it’s no surprise that even attempts to build a road connecting Greyton and McGregor were thwarted by this rough terrain.

Instead, what we have is this wonderful hiking trail, one that feels like a bridge between two worlds.

The Boesmanskloof Trail, though challenging at points, is an invitation to explore, to connect with nature and with one another, and to let go of the rush of everyday life.

Dances and Rockpools

After a few hours, we arrived at one of the highlights of the trail – the natural rockpool nestled among the rocks.

But not before passing ‘Breakfast Rock’ and the halfway mark where were treated to a traditional Halfway Dance.

For the kids, it was love at first sight. They couldn’t wait to plunge right in!

Watching them it became clear that the children were the heart of this hike.

Their enthusiasm was infectious, reminding us all of the pure joy of being alive.

(Also snacks! It helped that their Moms kept a handy supply of tasty and healthy snacks on hand.)

The rockpool felt like a reward – a refreshing break where we could cool down, relax, and break for lunch.

For the adults, it was also a chance to connect, swap stories, and enjoy the simplicity of being out in nature.

Hiking companions who were strangers in the morning soon felt like friends, as laughter and conversation flowed as easily as the river that carved this beautiful gorge.

Die Galq: The Comfort of Simple Pleasures

After a day’s walk, there was nothing quite like arriving at De Galg, where we stayed in a cozy stone cottage. Set against the backdrop of the mountains, Die Galq offered us a space to unwind and share the little moments that make hiking trips so memorable.

We settled in, sharing stories over a communal meal, our laughter filling the air.

The kids continued to entertain us, their boundless energy lifting our spirits as we settled into the warmth of the cottage. As the sun set, the sense of connection was tangible.

Being together – families, friends, and new acquaintances – felt natural and comforting.

A Rainy Return: Bonding Through the Elements

Sunday morning arrived with a different mood. The sky was overcast and clouds hung low, giving the mountains a misty, almost mysterious look.

Roughly halfway back toward Greyton, a light drizzle began, adding a gentle rhythm to our steps. By the time we neared our cars, the drizzle had turned to full rain, soaking us through. But instead of dampening our spirits, the rain became part of the adventure.

There was something heartwarming about being in this together – wet clothes, wetter boots, and all.

There was so much laughter and cheer, with the kids leading the way and finding joy in every puddle and raindrop.

Hiking with my running club-mates, some of whom I hadn’t hiked with before, brought a new sense of camaraderie. Through the rain, we built memories that would stay with us long after we left the trail.

Greyton and McGregor: A Tale of Two Towns

The Boesmanskloof Trail is more than a path between Greyton and McGregor – it’s a link between two vibrant, distinct communities that have found a unique connection despite their geographical separation. Both towns share a love for nature and community spirit, but they also have their own unique identities.

Legend has it that rugby matches between the high schools in Greyton and McGregor were next level.

Each year, students from both schools would take turns hiking the Boesmanskloof Trail, enduring the tough pass to play against each other. Better than driving 140 kms? Maybe back in the day before cars.

If true, it’s a ritual that captures the imagination and the rugged resilience of these towns and the South African love of rugby.

Wonder how many Springbok players hail from either of these towns… a quick Google search shows John Stubbs (1948 – 2024) from nearby Genadendal… close enough! We’ll take it.

Maybe they were too tired from hiking the Pass to pass the ball afterwards 🙂

The Riviersonderend Mountains

These mountains, which have resisted attempts to connect Greyton and McGregor by road, offer a natural setting unlike any other. Along the way, we encountered sections of thick foliage, rocky outcrops, and glimpses of the river winding through the gorge.

The Riviersonderend Mountains are both beautiful and formidable, reminding us that nature has a power and presence that can’t be easily tamed.

The river, flowing quietly alongside parts of the trail, felt like a companion on our journey. It weaves through the landscape, bringing life to the plants and trees that line its banks.

Being in this environment brings a sense of respect and awe – a reminder of how small we are within this vast and enduring landscape.

Reflections: The Gift Of Connection

As we loaded up the cars, wet and weary but undeniably happy, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the weekend.

The Boesmanskloof Hiking Trail offered us more than just a physical journey – it gave us a space to strengthen bonds, share joy, and make memories with family and friends.

Watching the kids experience the trail was a gift in itself, and sharing this adventure with both old friends and new acquaintances made the experience all the more meaningful.