At the end of each year, I like to go away to a remote place and just unwind. One of my favourite places to do so is in Bot Rivier. A tiny town which seems to be only a few blocks big, and serves as the perfect getaway.
Being surrounded by mountains, they beckon you every day to take a climb up them. The routes were all pretty much unknown to me, but with a general direction, water, a warm top (even though it was 35 degrees) and some nuts I was ready for anything. Starting off on the trail, it soons become an incredibly steep path. Going from 30 to 45 degrees of inclination for a few kilometers is not an easy pill to swallow.
After the massive incline, you get to wander through a vast range going from peak to higher peak. There was a chilly wind which contrasted with the blazing heat, making you feel like you have some fever. All of this was made easier when the path opened up and begged to be run.
The hike ended up being long and hard, with 2km off trail thrown in to reach the highest peak. The views and sense of achievement made it absolutely worth it. In total it took under two hours, but average moving heart rate hovered around 160. Definitely a difficult hike.
If you're ever keen for a getaway and some relaxation, I highly recommend Beaumont Wines for accommodation. Super friendly staff, beautiful wine farm and walking distance to loads of trails. I had some amazing single track, river side trail runs during my stay as well.
