Klapmutskop

This trail is usually offered as part of an inclusive tour of the Stellenbosch area for hiking and nature enthusiasts. It may include wine tasting as part of the package, depending on the group. The trail starts with an easy walk through the farm tracks that surround the vineyards, before turning off into the natural renosterveld on the lower slopes of the hill. As the path zig-zags up the slopes the vegetation changes to Fynbos before finishing in a small afromontane forest on the ‘kop’ (top of the hill). This makes it unique in the region and of special interest to those interested in botany. The views of the surrounding mountains and farmlands are spectacular. The route winds down the northern slopes before linking up with the outgoing path on the lower slopes.

Trail Details

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Trail location

Greater Simonsberg Conservancy – Delvera Wine Estate

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Nearest city

Stellenbosch

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Transport options

Local transport options: Away from transport hub. E-hailing from Stellenbosch, private transport or by arrangement with guide

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Trip Duration / Options

Approximately 4 hours – circular route to hill top and return

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Start / Finish

Start: Delvera Wine Estate hub – GPS 33˚85’03.60 S / 18˚85’65.11 E
Trail starts on a marked path through the vineyards

Finish: as above

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Time / Distances

Approximately 6km. 4 hours

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Trail Grading

Based on a grading of Easy – Moderate – Strenuous.

This is an easy hike, with a short zig-zag path to the highest elevation at the top of the hill. The path follows the farm tracks through the vineyards, turning onto a built path through the natural vegetation. Uneven and rocky underfoot in places.

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Physical Fitness

A normal degree of fitness required and the ability to cope with uneven surfaces.

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Technical detail / Terrain

On path, very limited steep terrain, no technical exposure.

Much of the path is on farm tracks through vineyards and other agricultural land. These may be muddy and slippery when wet. Well defined and marked, constructed path with sand and natural rock surfaces. Some uneven and loose stones underfoot in places. Good grip hiking shoes or sports footwear important.

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Food Supply / Catering

Bring your own snacks & water. Lunch at the farm by arrangement

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Logistic support / Guiding

The trail is guided by a fully trained, accredited mountain guide – transport by arrangement. This trail is often put on as part of a tour of the area.

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Highlights

The Klapmutskop is made up of three distinct local biomes of Renosterveld, Fynbos and Afromontane Forest. Views of the surrounding mountains and winelands from the top of the hill.

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Other Activities

Mountain biking, wine tasting.

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Fauna & Flora

The core of the ‘fynbos’ biome and part of the Cape Floristic Region, with special interest of two other distinct biomes. Mostly nocturnal and shy small animals, lizards and agamas with a scattering of birdlife.

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Climate

Stellenbosch and this part of the Western Cape is located in a Mediterranean climate with winter rainfall. Summer can be hot (up to 35 degrees). Spring and Autumn are moderate and the best hiking season although good winter days can be quite warm and summer temperatures are seldom high for long periods. Hiking is possible all year round.

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Seasonality & Best Time Year

Spring and Autumn are moderate and the best hiking season although good winter days can be quite warm and summer temperatures are seldom high for long periods. With this being a short hike, it is possible all year round although there can be very hot days in summer.

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Group Size

1 to 6 hikers per guide

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Price P/P

Price depends on tour package and transport requirements. R2100 pp for a private tour, including transport and wine tasting after the hike. Per person rates lower for larger groups

Price review date: 1 November annually

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