In spite of the comparatively high cost of this hike, it attracted eleven hikers.
We were given exceptionally clear directions and a map to the resort, enabling all of us to arrive punctually and no-one got lost. Well done, everyone!. We shared transport to cut costs and having others in the car to chat to made the long, straight stretch to the Parys turn-off , less tedious.
On arrival at this friendly and tranquil resort, we were treated to hot coffee, tea and lovely homemade rusks, followed by a brief, informative talk given by owner Graeme Addison on how and when the Vredefort Dome was formed, the vast extent of it and the results of the meteorite impact. We unfortunately did not get to see the promised slide-video presentation, but Graeme has kindly offered to let us have a free copy of his video and once we receive this, we can show it at one of our club evenings. Interesting for us and a bit of publicity offor Otters’ Haunt. Graeme’s young son was also taking video footage of us, which they plan to present on U-Tube shortly.
Our club name includes the word “Adventure”, and I would say that the first part of the hike along the magnificent Vaal River was indeed a bit of an adventure, as you can see from some of the photos! I noticed at least two people landing in the water. Thanks to our rock-steady Flo, and our guide, Karen Addison, I made it across dry and intact. For those of you who really like adventure, Otters’ Haunt offers white-water rafting during the wet months. They also have a few self-catering chalets, ideal for anyone wanting to just get away from it all. Parys, with all its restaurants, antique and art shops, is a mere ten minutes away.
Karen proved to be helpful, friendly and informative. After negotiating the Nyala Trail along the river banks, with much boulder-hopping and scrambling, we got back to our cars, grabbed day packs and set off across flat, treeless plains, surrounded by the hills of the Dome. Much ducking through rusty barbed-wire fences brought us to the quarries, where the beautiful pink granite has been quarried, leaving deep, inviting “swimming pools”. It being July, only Roxy the Border collie was brave enough to take the plunge and enjoy the stunningly blue water, surrounded by the sheer pink granite man-made cliffs. Karen told us she often swims there.
Back at base, some of us took the time to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch in the tranquil surrounds. Others drove into Parys to explore and enjoy a meal, yet others had to head for home and other commitments.
Sure, it was a bit on the expensive side compared to our usual day hikes, but everyone said they had enjoyed the day. Please note that I deliberately sandwiched it between two extremely inexpensive hikes (Suikerbosrand (June) and Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens (August) to compensate.