It was a great joy to return to the country mountains. Teresa Raposo and Ivor Jardine led a party of eight by way of the new Waboom Path through the Helderberg Nature Reserve in Somerset West. At Disa Gorge, where a network of paths comes together, we traversed well to the left then up the coast-facing ridge of the mountain to our destination.
Although the Reserve and the mountain were extensively burnt a year ago, there was a fair display of fynbos plants in flower and Greg Forsyth, well-known in the Club in former years, enlightened us on the ecological consequences in the Reserve.
The West Peak is about the height of Table Mountain, and afforded us splendid views of the Hottentots Holland mountains as we relaxed to enjoy our lunch. The circular route continued as we descended the Porcupine Buttress path, which is the normal access to the summit Dome. From Disa Gorge we retraced our steps along the lengthy approach path, completing a marvelous 8-hour trip.
Pictures: Kathy Hackett
