Once again, the weather forecast initially predicted strong winds, which fortunately for us, turned out to be a fairly benign breeze. With cars left at Sandy Bay Nek parking, we commenced on the hike at 07h45, on our way to the summit of Klein Leeukoppie, or Het Zuyker-Broodt, as it was known by the Dutch settlers, to enjoy the 360° panoramic views offered from the top.
We descended towards Llandudno without any incidents, however the breeze previously enjoyed, dwindled and became progressively less, yet the temperatures were rising, which began to take it’s toll on some in the group. It was with some relieve that we were welcomed by a marked drop in ambient temperature stemming from the sea, as we joined coastal path. Whilst the initial plan was to power on to Oude Schip without a tea break, in order to catch the low tide, we decided to have a short break at Sandy Bay beach, which some of us used as an opportunity to take a dip in the sea to refresh themselves. Onwards along the trail towards Oude Schip, which was made more bearable as we still got to enjoy a coolish breeze off the ocean, we reached the little peninsula where a longish break made up for the brisk pace maintained to get to crossing in time.
Time at Oude Schip was spent with some individual explorations or even power naps… but everybody felt sufficiently fortified to rise to meet the final challenge, toiling up towards the top of Rocket road, from where we returned to the cars via Mitchell’s road, reaching the cars by 13h30.
My thanks go to the volunteers who helped with the shuttling and logistical arrangements.
