The Hidden Gem... literally
Tranquillity Cracks is an extraordinary hiking experience on the Twelve Apostles.
Tranquility Cracks should be at the top of any list of ‘must do’ hikes on Table Mountain.
Explore the secrets of this hidden gem, where massive sandstone boulders form enchanting cracks, caves, and passages adorned with yellowwood trees and ferns.
Not only does it offer a serene escape from the city, but it also provides breathtaking views of Camps Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
The Pipetrack to Corridor Ravine
We started at Theresa Avenue in Camps Bay, an upscale suburb renowned for its stunning beach, palm-lined promenade, and vibrant nightlife.
This serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the Twelve Apostles, a series of majestic peaks along the Atlantic coast.
After a stiff climb up a jeep track, we reached the Pipe Track, a level and straightforward trail built in 1887 to transport water from Table Mountain reservoirs to the city.
Along the way, relish panoramic views of Camps Bay, Lion’s Head, and the ocean.
After about an hour, reach the beginning of Corridor Ravine, a steep and rocky path ascending to the mountain’s summit. Despite its challenges, the climb offers rewarding vistas of rock formations, waterfalls, and the indigenous fynbos vegetation.
Discovering Tranquility Cracks
Upon reaching the top of Corridor Ravine, follow a path tracing the Twelve Apostles’ spine northward towards Table Mountain. Here, the real adventure unfolds. Tranquility Cracks are discreetly nestled, requiring a keen eye for a small cairn of stones or signs like “Yellowwood Forest” or “Tranquility Cracks.”
Entering the Labyrinth
The entrance, a narrow slit between two large boulders, leads you into a captivating realm. The cracks form a labyrinth of corridors and chambers, some spacious enough to walk through and others demanding crawling or climbing.
Ancient yellowwood trees, some over 500 years old, create a tranquil canopy, sheltering you from the sun and wind. The cracks also host a variety of flora and fauna, including ferns, mosses, lizards, and birds.
Eplore at leisure, discovering ideal spots to relax and relish diverse perspectives through openings and windows. Whether you choose to picnic, meditate, or capture the scenery, the cracks provide a perfect backdrop.
Return Journey Options
For the return journey, retracing your steps is an option, or you can opt for a different route like Woody Ravine, a steep descent near the Twelve Apostles Spine.
Exercise caution during this slippery descent, which requires some scrambling. Woody Ravine leads to the Pipe Track, providing a route back to Theresa Avenue.
A third, and the easiest option, is to descend via Kasteelspoort. Both Woody Ravine and Kasteelspoort have signs marking the way, making it difficult to get lost.
Whichever route your choose to descend, will take you to the Pipetrack, and back to Therese Avenue.
Tranquillity Cracks Hiking Guide
The Tranquility Cracks hike seamlessly combines nature, history, and mystery, making it one of Table Mountain’s best-kept secrets.
A four-to-five-hour adventure, it’s advisable to go with a knowledgeable guide, considering the cracks can be challenging to locate.
Check the weather, wear suitable attire and footwear, and pack sufficient water and snacks.
Finally ...
This memorable and rewarding hike unveils the beauty and diversity of Table Mountain, leaving you in awe.
An experience worth reliving, the Tranquility Cracks hike promises to etch lasting memories of an extraordinary adventure into your heart.
Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the wonders of this hidden oasis.
Thanks
For pics & videos posted:
W Adams
S Fakier
C Fakier