Hiking on Table Mountain in the

 spring

July is still officially the middle of the Cape winter. However anyone who hikes up Platteklip Gorge at the moment will definitely feel that spring is in the air.

The first section of the hike which follows the Platteklip River is lined by the most beautiful Water Blossom pea bushes in full flower.

The bright water sweet pea lines the lower parts of Platteklip Gorge

 The water blossom pea’s Latin name is Podalyria calyptrata. It is also known by an abundance of common names. The Keurtjie, water Keurtjie and  the sweetpea bush. The word “Keur” is Dutch for “choice” or “pick of” and refers to the beautiful flowers that really do stand out on Table Mountain.

The beautifully colourful flowers are accompanied by soft velvety leaves which are equally attractive.

The sweetpea bush flowers

The sweet smelling Keurtjie attracts a number of insects so you walk is accompanied by the drone of bees and the flutter of butterflies. All of which add to that feeling that spring is in the air.

So if you are feeling energetic take a hike up Platteklip Gorge and get the feeling that winter is almost over.