Hiking in the Kogelberg Nature
Reserve
The Kogelberg Nature Reserve is located close to Bettys Bay about an hours drive from Cape Town. Often considered the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom it is amazingly isolated and unspoiled. Its high mountains, steep kloofs and the several tributaries of the pristine Palmiet river make it a wonderful hiking destination with a number of different trails to choose from.
One of my favourite trails in this reserve is the Palmiet River Trail. This is a relatively flat trail so is not too strenuous. As it is an out and back trail you can go just a few kilometres and then find a beach to settle on for the day, or you can do the full distance if 21km to Stokies bridge and back. Thus this can be an easy family outing or a hard hike covering good distance.
To get to the Nature Reserve follow the N2 out of Cape Town and take the Gordons Bay turn off just before Sir Lowrys pass. This will take you onto the scenic coastal route to Bettys Bay (R44). This road winds its way around the mountains with a steep drop off into the Oceans below. You pass several surf beaches and small towns such as Koel Bay and Pringle Bay before passing through Bettys Bay. Once through Bettys Bay the turn off for the Kogelberg is just before you cross the Palmiet River.
The Palmiet river trail
A gravel Road takes you 3km into the reserve and to a parking area. Here you need to buy a permit. (R30 or free entry for Wildcard holders) Follow the signs for the hiking trail and you soon find yourself beside the river. The water is clear and flows strongly right through the year. The path is at times right next to the river at other times several metres above it. I have never seen anyone else on the trail and the feeling of peace and quiet is amazing.
High peaks on either side of the river
The beaches arre of clean white sand and close to the water footprints of clipspringer, mongoose and otter are clearly visible. Water falls cascade from the peaks on either side of the trail and several small rivers need to be crossed along your route.
The view up the valley from the jeep track
After 5 km the path reaches a junction with a jeep track. Here you can choose to follow the jeep track back to the offices, retrace your steps, or continue for a further 8km along the jeep track to Stokies bridge. The jeep track moves further away from the river and offers amazing views down the valley.
https://www.ridgwayramblers.co.za/index.php/hiking-options/other-hikes-in-the-western-cape/
