This new there-and-back route, bordered on one side by the Obiqua Mountains and on the other by the lively, aptly named Waterval River, was done 3 times in July! All that changed was the weather and the members!
Yes, it was further than usual to get there, but definitely worthwhile. Along the route, looking up and away, we saw Mostert Twin Peaks, the Witzenberg range, and even Groot Winterhoek Peak. (One of the photos has a rock dragon with its horn pointing to it!) Looking down, there were floral treats (the little disa bifida being a surprise), 3 different gladioli, and so on, and all the while the river’s pools and rapids.
First meet, 16 July, 13 members: The mist was so heavy all the way from home that we would only get to see the constantly changing environment on the way home! Even the worthwhile, gushing waterfall some distance away at the start was not visible. Our surroundings only started showing themselves after about 30 minutes into the route.
Second meet (to handle the waitlist), 20 July, 13 members: We were fortunate to have views of our route from the start, although the distant mountains had heavy cloud cover until later, and the waterfall strength had definitely reduced a little
Third meet for working members, 25 July, 8 members: Perfect weather day!
Tea-time was amongst interesting rock formations. Our destination waterfall could be accessed in 3 different levels, each with its own wonder. The first level, in winter, does not lend itself to a long stay, being in deep shade and a very rocky environment, but has a wonderful pool; the second level provides swimming opportunities directly below a thundering chute, (see video) a view of the narrow kloof and waterfall below, and a broad, sunny area for lunch; the small top pool is right on the edge, overlooking the falls below. Levels 2 and 3 are reached by a very steep, narrow path.
Let the photos speak for themselves.
We will be back in summer to enjoy the many pools along the way.
Photos: Mainly Christo Steyn
