“Everybody gets a car!” 😂 Okay fine, not Oprah level giveaways, but we did hand out fatcakes and chocolates, which in hiking currency is basically the same thing.
Winter and I have a complicated relationship. I’m a winter baby, but the season and I don’t vibe. I underdressed for this hike and froze my toes off before the climb warmed me up. But arriving at Haarties Hiking Trail was pure magic, fog hovering over the water, sun breaking through it looked like what you see on National Geographic channel, mist swirling like nature’s smoke machine. Only early birds get that show, and we were front row.
Haarties Hiking Trail is tucked near Hartbeespoort Dam, offering a mix of river views, rocky climbs, and wide-open stretches that test your stamina. It’s well-marked trails, 6km, 8km and 10km. We did 10 km, and it is sneaky no matter how many times you hike it, it throws in something new. Last time I nearly melted under the sun but this time the cool air made it feel easier. Either the weather helped or I’m finally fit… LOL, let’s go with fit.
Before we even started, the vibe was different. We met by the river, laughter bouncing around like we’d already achieved peak happiness. Honestly, we could’ve gone home right then mission accomplished. But no, we had fatcakes to eat (winter tradition!) and chocolates to share. Cue the “everybody gets a car” moment. Sugar high unlocked, hike commenced.
Jen and I confessed we almost bailed hectic week, tired bodies but we were so glad we showed up. Hiking has that “catch and release” magic: you drop the stress, pick up joy, and suddenly adulting feels less heavy.
The trail gave us new discoveries, new laughs, and even new life hacks (Jen now knows how to keep her avocados alive longer 😂). And because our hiking crew is spontaneous, we ended up at Jasymn Farm for ice cream… except none of us who said want ice cream had it. Waffles stole the show. Breakfast of champions, no regrets.
Best things in life really are free, laughter, foggy sunrises, great conversations with friends. R75 gets you a mini short left and a therapy session with nature!
Till next time, my Fabtastic People.
Air Force 1 signing out! Moira
The Roaming Path 