Sightings: Rare Fynbos, Birds, Cape Mountain Zebra
The start and end of this trail runs along the same route. It’s a fairly rocky option with a long gradual uphill in the circular section, but easy downhill coming back. A detour of 2,6 km can be made to Tierhoek Picnic Site at the edge of the vlei for some relaxation and birding.
The fynbos vegetation along this 13km route is very unique, and quite rare. The plants here grow on Limestone and include species such as Protea obtusifo/ia (red cup-shaped flowers in winter) and Leucadendron murii (medium sized bushes with large whitish grey cones). Birders can keep their eyes peeled for Cape Sugarbirds and Orange-breasted Sunbirds – both endemic to Fynbos are also common in winter. Cape Mountain Zebra and Baboon can sometimes be seen along the route.
De Hoop MTB 12km Route 2 Distance: 7.5 miles Duration: 20 - 40 minutes Total climb: 57m Total descent: 56m