TRAIL INFO
Closest Town: Aurora
Grading: Intermediate (steep climb) | Duration: 2 hours
Location (Area/Province): Cape West Coast and Western Cape
Configuration: There-and-back, 34km
Start Point: At Mountain Mist Reserve
TRAIL BASICS
Access: Guests free; day-trippers by prior arrangement
Beware of: The site borders a restricted Defence Force area and access without express permission is strictly forbidden
Facilities: Fully equipped self-catering cottages, pool, DSTV, private braai facilities, cell phone reception
Cell Reception: Yes
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OVERVIEW
Mountain Mist Private Nature Reserve perches a lofty 1 000m along the Piketberg massif above the village of Aurora.
On your bike
Although some technical riding options abound upon the plateau, most of the trails are easy cruises along a network of gravel roads. The real test however is the 15km downhill from Mountain Mist to Aurora, so plug into gravity along sets of switchbacks carving along the fynbos slope. But remember, what goes down must come back up…
Off the bike
Come and experience the peace, tranquility and magnificent views of our Mountaintop Private Nature Reserve. Only 180km from Cape Town, above the village of Aurora, we are as high as Table Mountain, which can be seen on a clear day. From the cottages there are views of St Helena Bay to the west and the Piketberg and Cederberg to the north and east.
Our land has a rich variety of mountain fynbos, Watsonias, Aristea, Dilataris and others litter the summer landscape in and around awesome rock formations. Klipspring, Duiker, Vaal Rhebok, Dassies, Lynx, Porcupines and Baboons share the mountain with us.
There are many Raptors, including the rarely seen Black Eagle. Birders can enjoy the easy sightings of Protea Canary, Sentinel Rock Thrush and Ground Woodpecker amongst other LBJ’s (little brown jobs). The Bird List has been verified by Margaret McIver.
FACILITIES
“The Cottage”
A traditional cottage, with a huge indoor fireplace, which allows you to braai indoors in bad weather. It sleeps 6 – 8 people.
Log cabins: Eagle’s, Sugarbird & Falcon’s – 2 x 4 sleepers and 1 x 2 sleeper.
All accommodation has magnificent views of St Helena Bay and are fully equipped for a unique, private, self-catering experience. All you need to bring are towels, fire/braai wood, food and drink.
CONTACT
Telephone: +27 (0)22 952 1750
Website : www.mountainmist.co.za
GPS: 32°42’18.7”S 18°29’07.0”E
WEATHER FORECAST