Another scorching day in February

What a scorcher today! The steep climb up to Eagle's Nest from the shady carpark at Constantia Nek soon reminded us that February hikes should preferably be in full shade (not all that easy to find!), as the promised breeze from the south west did not materialise until we eventually reached the beacon on top of this relatively small hillock. It's difficult to judge whether I struggled with a hike in such hot weather, as the same hike on a cold winter's day would be a doddle after the hills I have climbed in the last 18 months, and a far cry from when it was my very first hike and I couldn't walk for 4 days afterwards!
The breeze that cooled us as we enjoyed our coffee break made the effort so worthwhile, as the views from the Atlantic in the gap at Llandudno to the mountains in the west are different every time, with the vines below in the Constantia valley either verdant or severely pruned, depending on the season. Unfortunately the smoky haze from yet another wildfire, this time in the mountains of Franschhoek, obscured a large area and made photographs a waste of time. But on a cool, windy day in early spring I would recommend this hike to anyone who is able to clamber up and down quite a few rocky stretches.
Despite the heat, the area is very popular with hikers, bikers and dog walkers of all ages, not to mention runners who pass effortlessly and seem to take the highest road. Good luck to them; we are there to enjoy the view, the fair exercise and some jolly good company.