33.05 Kleinmond, The Western Cape, RSA: 3 Sisters, a hiker's delight, dream and much more.

We reached the Cape a few weeks late as most of the proteas had lost their petals/flowers.




Perfection! "Flower power" in the Cape. The wilds provide a particular satisfying manner of viewing fauna and flora.




We overtook a German couple on the way up, the only other hikers we saw in over 5 hours. They obliged for the shot.




Over the last few months, even years, it seems we have enjoyed a high standard of trails and hikes and much of the time being showered with great views and phenomena provided by nature, too. As we have mentioned frequently, each occasion is different even on repeated hikes. Nothing is stationary. It is a dynamic natural world resulting in changes by the second usually led by clouds, wind, bodies of water, eruptions/movements, the moon and sun in the narrow sense and seasons, time-of-day and a person’s mood from a broader perspective. That’s a long introduction to state our time in Kleinmond has been outstanding. The three hikes thus far have been incredible, balanced between a great work-out, challenging and with views to die for…actually, to live for. It’s one of those places, and there are many, that would be worth traveling half-way around the world in which to undertake two or three hikes.

The hike commenced on the town outskirts. We followed the stony trail upwards, passing Sandown mountain and another two thereafter, walked along narrow drop-offs and undertook terrific rock scrambling and some climbing. 3 Sisters looked more like at least 6 but perhaps after they were named, a few more appeared on the scene miraculously. Just after the first of the sisters are two pimples (really), hence, perhaps they are much younger than the others. The route then goes down onto a saddle before rising sharply once again to reach the latter two sisters. The cumulative gain is about 2,400 feet. Whatever the case, it is an amazing hike.

Kleinmond is not exactly a booming town or a metropolitan city. It is obviously a coastal town situate south-east of Cape Town, some ninety minutes from the mother city. In fact, it's just the type of place we find comfortable. It appears it's filled with retirees.

We’re staying in the ‘honeymoon suite’ in an establishment owned by Mevrou Nel. She and her daughter have been a delight and continue the tradition we’ve been fortunate to enjoy—people from many parts of the world showing us kindness and hospitality. It adds greatly to our experiences and allows us to see and witness the good parts of humanity. Just yesterday, after returning from 3 Sisters hike, we stopped into a casual restaurant for tea and coffee and ended up chatting with the proprietors, Ina and Thuis. They ‘emigrated’ from Potchefstroom and are semi-retired but Ina needs to keep active. We explored a number of topics together and continue to obtain varying perspectives. Thuis was easy to get on with, one of the reasons is that he is a former Zimbabwean, citizens we’ve always found to be special—similar to New Zealanders.

Talking of the former Rhodesia, we had dinner with a friend from many years ago, Geoff van Lear. We first met on the cricket field when we were 14. We are a little older now but have not forgotten the wonderful memories stretching over years. We also spent time with Dani and Gill, their children Jacob and Ruby, family from Jenni’s side. We had a delightful few hours with a nephew, niece, great —nephew and —niece. Sitting in a railway carriage in Sea Point was particular special and I’m not talking about the food although hot beverages served in the colonial manner accompanied with scones, butter, jam and cream is an ideal high tea.



One of my favorite photographs, part way up 3 Sisters.




Are we allowed another favorite?





I suppose another favorite would be stretching it.




Besides rugged and pristine beauty, the hike was outstanding.




We love returning home to South Africa. It also gives us an opportunity to catch up with family and friends. Here is a typical example although cousin Bobbe J gave us the cold shoulder. Some of the family are rather sensitive and take time to re-establish warmth and communication. As we needed a rest, we waited a reasonable period until we decided to voice our disappointment at his rather aloof manner. Maybe he was upset after Jenni shouted 'Leopard'. She has a bit of a warped sense of humor, at times.




Cousin Jeffrey 2nd, is one of the few not impressed with our gift of a Cadburys 'Top Deck' chocolate slab.




Where are you, Jenni? I think I lost her again. Early part of the climb so plenty more opportunities to get lost.




Toward the end of the hike, the editor tip-toes through the tulips...fynbos. The town of Kleinmond below.




Between mountains but still not anywhere near the Sisters.




After going over Sandown mountain, then down through the gulley, editor climbs/searches for the first Sister.




I was so sure the trail went this way...or was it that way? Jen...Jen?




The flora is eye-catching and marvelous.








Nice town. Like most, they always look better from height.




After coming down the mountains in a loop format, we reach a plateau.




At last, reaching 1st Sister.



Cheers,


Jenni and Jeffrey



Profile of 3 Sisters, with the third sister in the middle.
Brian Murray sings, appropriately, "Hamba Kahle".