Why Writing a Travel Bucket List is the First...
As we approach the end of 2024, we can't help but look ahead to what next year holds.
Run, Hike or Bike our Trails
PICK YOUR TRAIL
The trails at De Hoop Nature Reserve will unlock much more than your online app rewards this season, with 5 unique trails to choose from, ranging from a leisurely 12km, to a more challenging 55km route for the truly experienced - there is something for everyone.
Trail 1 - The Dassie 12km
- Distance: 12km
- Elevation: 110m
- Sightings: Water Birds & Large Game
First up, a 12km circular route that follows some rocky terrain to the Southern end of the vlei (hello birders!) and back. Expect some short up and downhill stretches. This trail runs through an area that was burnt in 2006. Larger mammals such as Bontebok, Eland and Grey Rhebuck are often seen in or near depressions in the landscape where they graze. Ostrich is also common. Bring your camera for this one, there are some great views.
Good to Know! In times of high water, parts of the trail may be flooded and not negotiable. The abandoned house, halfway through the trail is a study site for honey bees. Do not approach or enter!
Trail 2 - The Fynbos Trail 13km
- Distance: 13 Km
- Sightings: Rare Fynbos, Birds, Cape Mountain Zebra
The start and end of this trail runs along the same route. It’s a fairly rocky option with a long gradual uphill in the circular section, but easy downhill coming back. A detour of 2,6 km can be made to Tierhoek Picnic Site at the edge of the vlei for some relaxation and birding.
The fynbos vegetation along this 13km route is very unique and quite rare. The plants here grow on Limestone and include species such as Protea obtusifo/ia (red cup-shaped flowers in winter) and Leucadendron murii (medium sized bushes with large whitish-grey cones). Birders can keep their eyes peeled for Cape Sugarbirds and Orange-breasted Sunbirds – both endemic to Fynbos are also common in winter. Cape Mountain Zebra and Baboon can sometimes be seen along the route.
Trail 3 - The Eland 18km
- Distance: 18km or 27km ( Koppie Alleen loop)
- Elevation: 150m or 260m ( Koppie Alleen loop)
- Sightings: Large Game and Whales in season
Note routes 3 & 4 require a high level of technical skill. Both these routes are very rocky.
After leaving the main road this path winds its way through open grazing fields - great for spotting game such as Eland, Bontebok, Cape Mountain Zebra, Grey Rhebuck, Baboon and Ostrich; thick stands of Cape reeds and rocky terrain. There are no notable long up or downhills. A detour of 8 km can be made to Koppie Alleen at the coast. This detour runs parallel to pure white sand dunes and the coastline offers spectacular views of Southern Right Whale (July – November) as well as beautiful rock pools and sandy beaches. (Yes, remember we said to pack the camera!)
Trail 4 - Spyhopper Trail 30km
- Distance: 30 Km - can be extended to a 45km (includes sandy track)
- Sightings: Large Game, Whales in season
Note routes 3 & 4 require a high level of technical skill. Both these routes are very rocky.
This 30km route is recommended for experienced athletes. Due to the remoteness, terrain and distance, please take time to prepare yourself for the trail.
Keen and experienced athletes can look forward to a challenging route with rocky sections that require a certain amount of technical skill. Undulating vegetated dune fields approaching the coast provide a stiff challenge – along with some spectacular sweeping views of the ocean and dunes towards the latter part of the course. After the hard work, the picnic area at Koppie Alleen offers a welcome rest, an opportunity for some whale watching in season, and a chance to replenish your drinking water or go for a swim.
Trail 5 - Flatrock 55km
- Distance: 55km
- Elevation: 900m
Do not be fooled by the name.
“Johan Kriegler (W2W founder) and the Cape Trails team establishing a brand-spanking new track to the north of the Vlei, going all the way up to Buchu Camp, cutting out any need to ride on the main tar road. Once you reach the top of “FlatRock” single track, the burn in the legs quickly fades away as you take in the best views of the De Hoop Collection: To the South, a full view of the entire Vlei and towering sand dunes that roll towards the deep blue sea; to the East, unparalleled and unspoilt sunrises over the Potberg area; and to the West, across the historical Melkkamer and open flood plains that stretch as far as the eye can see towards Arniston and Struisbaai. Throw some of the plentiful local wildlife in there - including Eland, Bontebok, ostriches, zebras and too many bird species to mention” - De Hoop Vlei MTB
Own Risk:
- Please take all necessary precautions to ensure you are fit and able to partake in any of these activities, as you would any of your self arranged training runs or rides.
- These trails are used at your own risk, they are not marshaled. Should you wish for us to arrange a guide for you, please let us know at the time of booking.
Feel free to contact De Hoop Collection if you have any questions.
