A Birthday Month Finale

South Africa never runs out of natural beauty, and this time my hiking boots took me to Mpumalanga, the land of safaris, geological wonders, and jaw dropping views. It was the perfect way to wrap up my birthday month with a “short left” mini vacation outside my province.

The trip started with the usual pre-hike chaos: planning what to pack, a 3-hour drive ahead, and me embracing my role as “the professional passenger.” 😂 Snacks were my special contribution, but of course, they got left behind (along with a few other essentials). Story for another day. 😒. Between waiting for Pumza to wake up, laughing at our forgetfulness, and grabbing supplies at petrol station, we decided nothing would spoil our fun. And honestly, that set the tone; sometimes the best adventures start with a little chaos.

 Our destination was Wathaba Farm, tucked away outside Machado Dorp. From the moment we set foot on the 10 km trail, it was a chorus of “IYOH!” and “WOW!” The hike was challenging, tricky, and took nearly five hours but every step was worth it.

The waterfalls stole the show. Just when we thought we’d seen the highlight, another one appeared, each more spectacular than the last. It was like they were competing for number one spot. One in particular; the “showstopper”, had us completely speechless. Snuggled in a gorge with dense forest, it was icy cold, but I couldn’t resist dipping my feet in the natural pool. Freezing, yes, but unforgettable. Shhh! don’t tell my family I did that; I was recovering from flu.

We counted about four or five waterfalls, most with inviting pools that begged us to swim. We promised ourselves we’d return in summer, even though we know the water will still be icy, but at least the weather will be warm. Between plunging deep into gorges, mountain climbs, and thinning air, freezing air(cold front, as Vigie said.😂) it felt like nature was showing off just for us.

Before we left for the hike, Happy, our host, told us we wouldn’t need water because the trail followed the river. We thought he was joking but he was right! Ninety five percent of the hike was alongside flowing streams, and we filled our bottles with fresh mountain spring water. Delicious water, who knew that was a thing.

After the hike, we checked into our accommodation, with views of the mountains and dam. The best part? Hot water came from a fire that heated the geyser, the same fire we used to braai our dinner. What an experience! I love how the family has left a few touches that still feel wonderfully farmy! It was rustic, cozy, and gave us full on glamping vibes. Glamping is my style, that is as far as it will go for me. Sitting around the fire, laughing, and soaking in the scenery was pure magic.

And just when we thought we’d seen it all, the following day before we checked out, we were told about another waterfall, yes, another one. It was literally 100 meters from the reception tucked away behind the forest. We asked ourselves, ‘what is this place and waterfalls’.?

“What a way to wrap up my birthday month, waterfalls, laughter, glamping, and views that belong on postcards. Sure, the snacks got abandoned, alarms staged a protest, and jackets decided to stay home, but honestly, who cares? Feeling ridiculously grateful for every unforgettable moment.

Here’s to more hikes, more laughs, and more living.

Till next time, Fabtastic People!

Moira

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

 Silkaatsnek Heritage Hike

My human GPS was working this time, so at least we didn’t end up at the wrong destination. Small victories, right? Just another day in the life of a hiker.

The Silkaatsnek Heritage Trail isn’t just about sore muscles and scenic views; it’s immersed in history. The area was once a strategic site during the Anglo-Boer War, with battles fought in these rugged hills. Today, hikers get to walk the same paths where soldiers once marched only now with hydration and snacks.

From the very first kilometre, I was already eyeing the chicken run route. And trust me, I wasn’t alone. But here’s the thing; I secretly love tough hikes. They remind me that I’m stronger than I think and stubborn enough to finish what I start.

Now, let’s talk about the weather. It was pouring just before we left for the hike. Most people would say, “Perfect weather to stay in bed.” Me? Hiking is my catch-and-release therapy. I leave my warm bed, go “suffer” on the trail, and somehow return refreshed and ready to face the world. Go figure.

Into the Gorge we went, we chose the “challenging” trail; because apparently, we’re all suckers for punishment. At first, it didn’t look too bad. Then suddenly, bam! we were sliding down rocks, clinging to ropes, and using hands, knees, and bums to stay upright. It was a 9.5km hike, but it felt like 15km. It felt like a lifetime maneuvering the Gorge.

At one point, we got separated. Or should I say, led astray (no names mentioned, LOL). We “found” our way back, though to this day we’re not sure if we were on the right trail. Talk about getting lost after seeing the “stay on the trail, shooting range nearby”. All I know is we ended up so deep in the gorge that the air felt thinner, and I kept looking up at the steep mountain above us thinking, “Surely we’re not climbing out of that.” Oh yes, we were. I remember hearing Pumza and Jen casually mentioning that the reception desk had warned hikers to pack extra snacks and water. News to me! Suddenly, everything made sense. Yoh, our strength was tested. But oh, the beauty we saw was breathtaking. Natural air-conditioning was amazing in that gorge. I could feel my lungs clearing from the clean air.

Despite the sweat, slips, and questionable trail choices, we all agreed: this hike is worth revisiting. Yes, we’re clearly suckers for punishment. It took me three days to recover (which never happens), so that should tell you everything.

But here’s the thing about the Haarties mountains; no matter how many times we hike them, they always feel brand new. There’s always something unexpected waiting like a surprise gorge detour or a mystery trail that may or may not exist.

So yes, we’ll be back. Not because we enjoy suffering (well, maybe a little), but because this trail has a way of humbling you, strengthening you, and leaving you with stories worth retelling. And if we ever figure out which trail was the “right” one, I’ll let you know. Until then, mystery adds to the fun.

Until next time Fabtastic People.

Air-force 1 signing out😊

Moira