Making the best of the last of summer - Van Daalen Peak

 With a 33 deg day forecast, my friend Talita suggested an early morning hike up to Van Daalen Peak, one of a few that look over my home town of George. I did this hike around this time last year, so I was due a return. We had a nice group for what was a spectacular morning.

We did the hike anti-clockwise, which I think is the better option as the track connecting Van Daalen to Tonnlbos, which we descend, is very steep in places (clambering vertically on all fours is required) and can be very muddy in places, as it was today after rains last week. The benefit too of anti-clockwise is that you have the sun behind you on the descent instead of in your face.

I took Rosy along and we had a magnificent morning out.

We set off at 06h00 and watched sunrise on our way up. We hung out for a while at the top, chilling and snacking before heading down. I haven't been through Tonnelbos for a while and it is looking as magical as ever.

We've had a beautiful weekend. A cold front is incoming and rain is forecast from Wednesday.

Sunrise looking towards Wilderness. Photo from Otto

 

Me, sitting on a rock. Otto and Talita in the background.

Rosy enjoying a splash in a rock puddle.

With Talita, Otto, Zelda and Johann. Etienne and Jolene not pictured (they were still on the way).

Talita, me and Zelda with our floral AR Gaiters.

I have no idea (yet) what this flower is. This is the first time that I've seen it. I only saw them in one place on the descent. Really pretty.

Coming to the end of the Giant Proteas, but still a good number around. They are magnificent!

Miss Rosy is such a good hiking girl xxx