Walking in a light drizzle made a very pleasant change from the intense heat of the summer months, although the temperature was so mild it was unnecessary to wear a rain jacket, and so winter is still some way away. We started at Suikerbossie just above Ruyteplaats estate in Hout Bay, toiled up through the pine forest to the indigenous forest and took the trail to Myburgh Ravine. Mist drifted around us as we tramped between tall proteas and bracken, all dripping with moisture from the occasional drizzle. The view was obscured by vegetation and weather, which was a good thing, as there was little opportunity to take our eyes from the path. Every footstep had to be measured, due to large rocks, roots and other hazards along the way, with quite a bit of scrambling involved. So although the almost 5km route had only minor elevation changes, a badly placed boot could easily have seen us crashing into the undergrowth in a not very elegant way, or even a twisted ankle. The wet rocks and sand stuck underfoot also contributed to a slippery surface, but fortunately it was only the little dog that accompanied us who sustained a foot injury and hopped back on three legs!
We never quite made it to the second ravine due to time constraints and the walking conditions, and although it was a thoroughly enjoyable hike, we were all happy to reach the relative ease of the trail through the pines again after a good four hours.
I think the refreshments were more in the hot chocolate line rather than beer!
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