Hiking Trail Description

	Dam near Cupido's Kraal hut, with Canoe's

The De hoop Whale trail is one of the best South African hiking trails I've done (December 2001) and the nature, sea, caves and whales are breathtaking - a trail well worth doing. An unequalled experience awaits hikers who embark on the five-day Whale Hiking Trail that has been developed by Cape Nature Conservation at the De Hoop Nature Reserve near Bredasdorp. The trail traverses one of the Western Cape's most unique and diverse nature reserves, while providing nature lovers and those who love the outdoors with unique comfortable overnight accommodation situated at spectacular locations.

The route stretches over 54 km from Potberg to Koppie Alleen, and includes five overnight stops. The trail offers the opportunity to explore the unsurpassed natural diversity of the De Hoop Nature Reserve, where the fragrance of fynbos on the Potberg mountains and the unique limestone fynbos plains intermingle with the salty sea air of the marine protected area. Along the way, hikers can marvel at the abundance of indigenous plants while looking for members of the last remaining vulture colony in the Western Cape, numerous other bird species and small antelope.

First night at Ouplaas Hut, "Kyk net daai mooi beentjies!"

And, yes, of course the whales! De Hoop is world-renowned as one of the best whale-watching spots. Between June and December, this coastline is transformed into one of the world's most important nursery areas for southern right whales. Whale watchers regularly stand in awe at the sight of more than 50 of these sea giants lying a mere kilometre from the coast.

The cottages - ranging from Arniston-style houses to A-framed thatched "kapstyl" cottages - are located at the foot of the Potberg mountains, nestled along the coastline and perched high on a sea cliff. "Roughing it" wasn't part of the package when the overnight accommodation was planned. The five cottages all have a kitchen and living area, modern bathrooms and toilets, warm water, beds with mattresses, firewood and solar powered lights. Most of the overnight facilities have built-in braais.

	Taking a break on day 3

The trail is designed to attract nature lovers with a moderate degree of fitness. Unfortunately, no children under eight years are allowed. The hiking over five days, vary in intensity. Day one is the most strenuous and covers 14,7 km up the 611m high fynbos-clad Potberg mountain. In comparison, the third day is only 8km long and allows leisure time to explore the marine life in the numerous rock pools along the coast.

Wallinberg Shuttle services are providing a secure and safe transport service from Cape Town or George airports with a Minibus ( Toyota Quantum), or car to De Hoop Nature reserve for hikers doing the Whale Trail, Swellendam Trail( Marloth Nature reserve) or Grootvadersbosch. Several options are available. Pre booking, minimum group size, 3 for car or 12 for the Minibus. Contact Jaap Viljoen for quotes on 0829005455 or email him at jnjv@telkomsa.net.