Every year, the southern right whale returns to the waters of the Cape to calve and mate.  The Whale trail is named after them and is situated in the De Hoop Nature Reserve.

 

Day one from Potberg to Cupidoskraal – 15km.

One follows the trail over the Potberg mountain with panoramic views: North, the patchwork farmlands of the Brede River Valley with the Langeberg mountains on the horizon.  West, the De Hoop Vlei/sand dunes and Cape Agulhas, the most southern most tip of Africa.  South, the limestone hills and the Marine Protected Area.  Admire the Cape fynbos and relevant bird life.

 

Day two from Bupidoskraal to Noetsie – 14,7km

Hike the crest of the Potberg, with inequitable views of the Breede River and the Indian Ocean, through mountain fynbos down on to the limestone hills and different Cape fynbos to the coast.

 

Day three from Noetsie to Hamerkop – 7,8km

A time to relax, explore the coastline, snorkel and swim in the tidal pools.

 

Date four from Hamerkop to Vaalkrans – 10,5km

Beach walking can be strenuous so relax and enjoy the oystercatchers and white-breasted cormorants basking in the sun.  Admire the wave-cut rock platforms and coral reefs before hiking through the diverse coastal vegetation to Vaalkrans.

 

Day five from Waalkrans to Koppie Alleen – 7km

An easy last day, to a memorable trail, through coastal thickets.
The accommodation is varied, very comfortable and roomy with hot showers and, at some huts, gas cooking facilities.

 

For a nominal fee, backpacks can be transported from one hut to the next.  A combi transports hikers from Koppie Alleen back to Potberg.

Contact: Cape Nature Conservation, Tel: (028) 542 1126/7