Cape Town Hiking Trails

Constantia Nek ~ Vlakkenberg ~ Manganese Mines ~ Chapman’s Peak

On a warm Sunday morning I dusted my walking shoes off and joined a group of hiking enthusiasts on a trail I have never explored before. By the end of the trail, even though I was a little tired from the long walk and heat, I was as happy as can be because I could spend the day in the Cape’s natural beauty.

Hiking from Constatntia Nek to Vlakkenberg

I am not sure on how many kilometers we had covered but I can't imagine it to be no more than 10 km. We walked for 3 hours and 30 minutes and I recommend one to have a fair level of fitness before embarking on this trail.

We started our ascent into Constantiaberg on a path that borders the vineyards of Silvermist Mountain Lodge and Wine Estate. It is a bit of a zig-zag climb up a series of steps but there is no need to rush, take a short break every now and then and enjoy the view.

Hiking up into the mountains, leaving the world behind you

Follow the path to Vlakkenberg, a small flat mountain that lies between Constantiaberg and Constantia Nek but do not ascend to the peak, rather continue on the path towards Silvermine.

Heading towards Constantiberg through lush fynbos

It is now safe to say that the hardest part is behind you and you can enjoy a lovely walk along a footpath through the lush vegetation, not to mention the incredible view of False Bay.

A rewarding view of False Bay with Hangklip in the distance

You will join a tar road, leading up the hill towards the radio tower. Watch out for mountain bikers but luckily you do not have to follow the tar road for long. After a 100 meters you will find a sign indicating the direction to East Fort and Chapman’s Peak.

Walking up the tar road, watch out for the sign on your right indicating the path to take to East Fort and Chapamn’s Peak

Following along a contour path you walk along the edge towards Chapman’s Peak. After a few kilometers of admiring the flowers in bloom and enjoying a refreshing splash in the stream flowing down the mountain, you will suddenly see Houtbay come into view.

Following the trail to Houtbay

For those who have never hiked this trail before I do not want to spoil the surprise, but a little further after spotting Houtbay, you will see an incredible view of Houtbay and Chapman’s Peak that will sweep your breath away.

The view of Houtbay which will pleasantly surprise you as you are walking along the path

As you get ready to start your descent to the East Fort, keep an eye open for piles of dark, sharp edged rocks. These rocks are dumps of ore from the old Manganese Mines that date back to 1909.

Dumps of ore from the old Manganese Mines dating back to 1909 cn be seen along the path

Looking down at the water’s edge, the East Fort is clearly identifiable by the neat row of cannons.

It was a little tricky to descend the mountain as you need to keep your eyes on the steep path that is scattered with loose rocks and stones but you can’t help but want to glance up and transfix your sight on the beautiful coastline and bay.

Chapman’s Peak curving itself lusciously around the coastline hugging the ocean

We truly live in a country that offers us gifts of simple beauty to fill our hearts with happiness.

Now that Spring has sprung and the weather is cooler, I would like to encourage everyone to hike at least one trail this season and allow our earth to graciously offer you her gift of beauty.