Table Mountain Excursion (2 Days / 1 night)
Overnight at the Overseers Cottage, located high above Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and the Southern Suburbs of the city, overlooking False Bay. By the evening all the day walkers have left, the tranquility and peacefulness is wonderful
Luggage 🧳: Luggage needs to be dropped off at a pre-arranged spot. It will be taken to the Cottage. On day 2 luggage must be fetched at a pre-agreed spot. Only carry a day pack.
Bedlinnen & Towels are provided and included.
Description
Day 1
There are various routes which can be used on day 1. Three suggested options:
Depending on The groups preferences and abilities.
Option 1: Via Kirstenbosch & Skeleton Gorge
Enjoy a leisurely walk through the Gardens until you reach the contour path, where the mountain hike begins.
Start at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
Option 2: Via the Pipe Track and Kasteelpoort with lovely views of the Atlantic Coastline. Start at Theresa Avenue in Campsbay
Option 3: Via Constantia Neck via the jeeptrack. Start at Constantia Neck parking.
Whichever route we take, it is great to first explore around the Back of Table Mountain and enjoy lunch somewhere on the back table before heading to the Overseers Cottage in the late afternoon. Visit the railway museum and the old reservoirs. On to Kasteelspoort for the vital photograph of ‘the diving board’ that overlooks Camps Bay and the Atlantic Coastline, far below. In the evening enjoy the fire place, the stars and tranquility on Table Mountain.
The duration of the first days walk to Overseers Cottage depends on the route chosen & fitness levels of the group. It is approximately 4 to 5 hours.
As I always say, the aim is not to get to the hut but to enjoy the hike.
Day 2
Option 1
Set off along the historic Smuts Track towards Skeleton Gorge and Nursery Ravine and Echo Valley, on your way to Maclears Beacon and the highest point of the mountain Enjoy the interesting rock formations, the spectacular views, and the wide variety of fynbos species, including proteas, ericas, restios, and many others. Enjoy lunch on the way to the top of Platteklip Gorge and the Western Table en route to the cable car station. Take money with you for the cable car as it is not included.
The optional alternative is to walk off the Table, down the steep, but well defined Platteklip Gorge route.
The cable car is weather permitting, in which case an alternative route which suits the group will be used for the hike.
Option 2
Set off and follow the route between the dams, Via Waaikoppie to the top of Platteklip Gorge. From here turn left towards the cable car or hike down Platteklip Gorge.
