Piesangkloof!

What an adventure!

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of hiking a new trail, it’s like unwrapping a present, except the gift is sweat, sore calves, days of recovery and breathtaking views. This time, we found ourselves Magaliesberg, and oh my word, my South Africa is gorgeous.

Lately, we seem to have developed a habit of wandering into gorges. I don’t know how it happens, but every trail says: “Surprise! Here’s a gorge.” And honestly, I love it. Hiking takes you into spaces you’d never see otherwise; nature’s secret VIP lounge.

Piesangkloof offers two trails; one is just over 3km; Cute, casual, family friendly and 8 km; the one that looks innocent but is secretly plotting your downfall. 😂Speaking of Piesang and Kloof!: Piesang is Afrikaans for Banana and Kloof is a Gorge: direct translation Banana Gorge. But it sounds good in Afrikaans.

The bush camp is pure outdoor adventure braai spots, splash pool, veld toilets, donkey showers, camping, and Wendy houses. No electricity, just vibes. And the cherry on top? Avocado trees. It was avocado season, and yes, we helped ourselves.

We, of course, chose the 8 km trail. The owner warned us: “Brace yourselves, it’s tough.” We laughed. We shrugged. We said, “She doesn’t know us we’re professionals.” ‘We’ve been doing this for years”.

Well, let me tell you, professionals or not, we were served a steaming plate of humble pie. Iyoh! That trail had us questioning all our life choices.

At first, it was easy gentle paths, a gorge that felt like a warm-up. We were smug. Then we exited the gorge and saw it: a steep, rocky mountain staring us down like a villain in a movie.

The voice in my head: “It’s a very tough trail, be careful.” Suddenly, I believed her.

Four kilometres of no shade, the sun blazing, sweat dripping, and us asking each other: “Is this really where we’re going?”

Just when we thought we’d conquered it, off we went into the second gorge. OMG. Rope after rope, sliding down on hands, bums, elbows, it felt like a lifetime.

But the views? Absolutely worth every scramble. Rocky cliffs, wildflowers, and finally, a river. The sound of flowing water instantly calmed my soul.

Piesangkloof is rough, beautiful, and unforgettable. It humbled us, challenged us, and rewarded us with views that belong on postcards. We all agreed it’s officially at the top of our favourite trails list. We are going back!

Until next time Fabtastic People!

Moira