15 of us set from out Theresa at 07h00 in ideal conditions although even in shadow we could feel the heat. We used Valken Ravine on the way up stopping in the overhang for a short break. Rejoining the ravine we met a party who had to abort their ascent of Kasteels Buttress because of an injured hiker.
Our group managed the Cups & Saucers and it’s approach pitch with ease. The sun being near it’s furthest southerly point was already flooding the planned beverage break spot so we spread out to find shade among the buchu on the path above. The scramble up to the top was evenly paced and the pitches well managed by all with high and varying elegancy levels.
At this point three members opted for a quick KP descent and were down by noon. The 12 of us then headed directly to the Apostles Path and continued up Valken. After exploring the viewpoints we regrouped for our midday meal break in the shade at the Labyrinth.
After lunch we used the wide crack scenic route down to the Diagonal Path. Then, the (now traditional) discussion as to whether to descend by Diagonal or KP ensued and luckily the consensus was for KP.
At the reservoir intersection nine members chose to continue down via KP arriving at the cars around 13h35. Then there were three; we who enjoyed a long refreshing swim which enabled an easy KP descent reached the bottom at 14h38.
