Happy Valley Trail, Limietberg

About Happy Valley Trail, Limietberg

Start: Bainskloof Eerste Tol
Finish: Bainskloof
Duration: 9 km, to Junction Pool and back
Fitness: moderate
Our tip: the return can get very hot above Wellington in the late summer heat, take plenty of water

This there and back trail is not difficult. Most of it is on a stone path, although the first bit of the trail follows a jeep track. There are few rises and most of it is on the flat.

The views, though, in amongst the Limietberg and the fynbos, are worth any amount of walking.

The hike follows the stone path past the monument to those who lost their lives in the Witte River disaster of 1895. After some time you will cross a suspended wooden bridge known as 'Raymond se brug' over a clear stream with a series of little pools a little higher up the river and can serve as a resting spot.

Most of the route follows the river and the destination is Junction Pool, a natural junction of two rivers. It is not always easy to find, so prepare to make a lunch stop in whatever shady spot you can find on the river's edge.

The river's water is usually icy cold and refreshing, and, as the hike is perfect for families, a great space for children to find frogs, tadpoles and rock crystals. Replenishing water is also a good idea as it can get rather warm.

Head back along the same route where you can enjoy an ice-cold beer or drink on the veranda of Linda's Kitchen – the restaurant close to Eerste Tol.