Four friends take on the Cederberg Traverse

They hiked from Pakhuis Pass in the north, via Heuningvlei, Boontjieskloof, Crystal Pools, up Engelsmanskloof and along the jeep track to summit Tafelberg, then a massive day down across the vlaktes and up to Sneeberg summit and down, finishing up via Duiwelsgat at Algeria.

Ian tells us a little about some of the photos...

These amazing trees, decimated by man and the ravages of fire, are barely surviving in the Cedarberg - incredible how almost every single large specimen contained both living and dead parts.

The approach to Tafelberg via the jeep track is one of the most spectacular views in the Cedarberg – we slept in the cave near the summit, after cooking a meal on top at sunset.

The route to the summit of Tafelberg passes the spectacular Pillarbox, then up God’s staircase of massive boulders, before some jumps and chain climbing leads you to the summit – a lunar landscape with sunset views hard to surpass.

The climb to the top of Sneeuberg, the highest peak in the Western Cape, is technical, thrilling and exposed – not for the faint-hearted – especially after 12 hours of walking! On a clear winter’s day, Table Mountain is clearly visible from the summit. We captured this image on the way down.

Above Duiwelsgat, the steep sides protecting this area from the devastation of fires, we walked through little pockets of indigenous forest and ferns – a diverse piece of Cedarberg magic.

All images: Graeme Robinson

West Coast accommodation

Most people know the West Coast best for the annual wildflower display that draws crowds with cameras to capture the colourful daisies and other flowers - over 1000 species in total - carpeting the fields each spring (from July to September, depending on the rains).

Flowers aside, there is always something to do in this delightful region. Bird watching, whale watching, kayaking, wine tasting, fishing, mountaineering – these are just some of the delights awaiting visitors. Nature lovers and those wanting to really get away from it all find themselves a spiritual home in this special place.

Whether you''re a keen hiker or just needing a break from the city, visit our website to view our West Coast guest houses and B&Bs.