Hike 33: Chapman’s Peak and a peek at Marais Street Shul

Jenni at the Peak--what a view
Take cover
Part way up Chapman's Peak

February 11th, 2010

Hi All,

It was more than we expected—the climb to the summit at Chapman’s peak. Once again, the views were nothing less than spectacular.
G-d willing, this is a place we will return. The mountain ranges are endless, the bays are attractive, the climbs are challenging, the Atlantic is distinctive, and the rocks and boulders are a ‘kiddies’ delight’. What else is there to ‘say’? Did we mention the low clouds and mist that filled the crevices and the bay, only to rise and clear, repeatedly. It reminded us of a day in Grindelwald, another recent highlight. On day one, we were captivated, day two enthralled and then finally, it ‘got better’.
Editor blowing smoke

Cloud and Mist Filling the Gap

After four days in the mountains, including walks on the boardwalk and town, it was time to welcome the Shabbos with relief. We visited the Sea Point/Green Point Shul on Marais Street. It is a typical South African structure including a warm and welcoming community. Rabbi Wineberg is the new leader on the block—a man of Chabad origin. He spoke eloquently and too welcomed us warmly. We’ve had quite a ‘run’ in shuls over the last few weeks—Melbourne, Singapore, Lyndhurst (JHB) and Sea Point (CT) with the intention of completing the trip at Lyndhurst again next Shabbos. The latter three shuls had Chabad Rabbis although two were traditional orthodox. A special thanks to Mercia Strieman who spent enjoyable time informing us of the local community.
Just before the Peak
Through saddle--final ascent

South African Jews know how to throw a “Kiddush meal’ or brocha as they call it. We walked into the hall and were overwhelmed by the spread. We thought we could feel the ‘love handles’ over our waist growing as we breathed in the aroma. Afterwards, the Rabbi approached us and asked whether we had a place for lunch. “Wasn’t that lunch? We exclaimed. He looked at us with sadness, shook his head and walked off. Aren’t three meals on Shabbos enough, we wanted to know.
Jenni at Chapman's Peak

The hike to the peak had characteristics that we believe make it one of the nicest we have enjoyed although it was not as difficult as expected. When we arrived at the car park, only two cars were in the area together with a sign that ‘tickled’ us.
We were confused for a change

How were we to tackle the hike if someone had to remain attending the car? What if a person arrived for a lone hike? Should we carry the car up the mountain but take the valuables from it? On the way we up, we met the two couples and had the whole trail to ourselves thereafter. We suppose it would have been better if more people were around (security). We spoke with a Scot and his local girlfriend, the first of the two couples, about water issues on trails. We loved his subtle comment that one should always have sufficient water while hiking. Even in Scotland, he said, where it might not be as hot as Cape Town, one should carry plenty of water. Did we doubt that Scotland might not get too warm?
Triumphant Editor

Chapman's Peak--the longest yard
We spent time playing on the boulders and even took a ‘second leap of faith’. When our camerawoman failed in her duty to capture our photo’ for posterity, we were forced to take leaps three and four. We must be going through a mid-life crisis else why would we show-off like that. Truth be told, it was a lot of fun and only a yard of ‘flight’.
And now the rest

Cheers,

Jenni and Jeffrey