The well-known rock “Hartjie” (heart) on top of Mount Dyer

22 eager walkers met at the Tourist Centre at 08h00. The last couple of hikes had been rained off so everyone was keen to get going and stretch their legs. After a short drive our walk started off at Platbos Forest. Francois and his team are to be thanked for their efforts in maintaining this unique indigenous forest. And for granting the hiking club access. It really does have a magical effect on you. All to quickly we exited the forest and crossed over the boundary on to Mount Dyer property, thanks to Corné for his “right of passage”. The fynbos on Mount Dyer while not as spectacular as can be seen at Grootbos when driving back from Stanford, is also in very good condition.
The Strand-Veld hikers on top of Mount Dyer

We saw quite a bit of bird life but most of the chatter came from our group. The pace slowed down as did the chatter as we followed the old quad bike trail up to the summit. At the top we all enjoyed some refreshments and the view was ample reward for our efforts. The weather all morning was cool, clear and sunny, ideal for walking. We then retraced our steps back to our cars at Platbos. Going down being somewhat easier than the journey up. Back at the tourist centre everyone agreed that it had been a very enjoyable morning all round. Photos were taken by Rob Koppel. The next hike will be on the 3rd of August at Baardskeerdersbos (meet at 08h00 at the Tourist Centre) and the hike-leader will be Dezire Pitzer 082-878-9552.

Why don’t you join us? Contact Roelof Diener at 082-552-5444 or send an e-mail to him at roelofdiener1@gmail.com.

Paul Adams