As an avid golfer, the challenging and beautiful 18 hole layout is what would usually grab my attention at Pinnacle Point Golf and Beach Resort in Mossel Bay, but this time, I was in for an archaeological treat! I joined Dr Peter Nilssen through thousands of years'' history on the "Point of Human Origin Tour".
 |
In 1997, archeologist Dr Peter Nilssen had conducted an Archaeological Impact Assessment of Pinnacle Point, unearthing 28 archaeological sites. There were some interesting discoveries that included 15 cave sites, and the oldest shell midden on the planet, 162 000-year-old remains of shellfish and mussel shells, bones and stone tools. In one of the caves, findings included exposed sediments that dated back 165 000 years to the Middle Stone Age.
 |
 |
Dr Nilssen''s passion and knowledge is very evident as he takes his guests through the ages - firstly with a very interesting and informative slide show and lecture, followed by a walk to one of the magnificent caves - which boasts the earliest evidence of human behaviour. The presence of the shell midden, microlithic tools, heat-treated silcrete and utilised ochre at Pinnacle Point Caves provides indisputable evidence that modern human behaviour was first exhibited in Africa – up to 100 000 years earlier than it was demonstrated in Europe or Asia.
 |
The walk itself is well worth the tour, as the view from the 60m-high cliffs to the sheer rock faces and moody sea is beautiful, as is the breathtaking panorama which greets you at the top of the 175 steps which take you down to sea-level, from where you can access some of the caves. The walk is very manageable - we had children and seniors in our group, although a fair level of fitness is required to walk back up! Stopping to enjoy the view provides one with a good excuse to stop and catch your breath!
 |
All in all, a very interesting and enjoyable 3 hours, where I came away with interesting facts and knowledge and a fascinating experience. The Point of Human Origin Tour is well worth a visit next time you find yourself in Mossel Bay!
Stay in Mossel Bay
 |
 |
With sweeping views of the ocean, Melkhoutkloof Guest House in Glentana offers space and comfort in a quiet seaside resort between Mossel Bay and George on the Garden Route. Sleep in style in tasteful bedrooms, with own balcony and lovely sea views. Guest lounge and dining room. Dolphins year round, with whale watching in season. Enjoy a game drive at a nearby game reserve, visit the Cango Caves, ostrich farms or relax on sandy beaches. Excellent golf courses nearby. George Airport 10 minutes drive.