Thirteen of us set out at 07h05 from Constantia Nek in ideal conditions. We took the direct route to the turnoff from the Constantia Corner path and traversed easily to the start of the gully ascent. The gully was in good condition considering the heavy winter we’ve had and it was not too wet after the recent rain. Leaving the gully on its west side, we traversed to the first pitch stopping only for a geocaching discussion and to view the latest developments below the Rocky Peaks route across the valley. Everyone managed the pitches easily although some chose to go round the chimneys. After our blissful beverage break at the top of the turret, we continued our hike sorry to have to leave the idyllic spot. Two initiates climbed the Camel enroute to Klaassen’s Kop.
Then down to Lumbago Alley where most chose the hard way using various methods although with varying degrees of elegance. We had a short break there to enjoy the view of the back of the Apostles and to fulfil the mandatory requirement of deciding which is Intake and which Frustration Ravine. We then ascended to the top of Klaassen’s Kop enjoying the scrambles on the way up. An alternative difficult pitch was done by most of the group. We all completed the Top Hat and Tails routine before lunching on the warmer northern side overlooking De Villiers dam. After lunch the daring majority then chose the chockstone ascent to the summit, descending across the tree. We then regrouped at the lunch spot before heading across the top in an easterly direction to the Constantia Corner/De Villiers Dam path. We followed the path for a short while then detoured directly to the concrete road at the top of Spilhaus Ridge. Grateful for the excellent weather, we descended on the road and diagonal path reaching the cars at 15h30.
