FULL REVIEW | APRIL 2006 (DO14) | Danie Vorster

Nearest town Clarens (15km)
Contact Thys Maritz
Tel 058 256 1124
Cell 082 336 3088
Fax 058 256 1566
Email maritzmj@telkomsa.net
Website www.bergwoning.co.za
Best time of year All year
Maximum vehicles 30 (minimum 10)
Route distance 6km (2 hours) and 25km (4–7 hours)

Nestled against the Maluti Mountains, Bergwoning is a historical route with spectacular scenery.

Driving on rocky terrain and mostly through grasslands, this is one of those places where you can take your whole family to enjoy nature at its best – and pets are welcome too!

The 4x4 trails offer challenges for the newcomer as well as for the more experienced driver. The numerous activities at Bergwoning will keep the kids busy, giving you time to relax and enjoy the views of the surrounding sandstone cliffs.

The 6km trail is a lovely ‘family’ trail, clearly signposted, but challenging enough for the newcomer to test his vehicle and driving skills. After an initial gentle start, you soon get to a more difficult river-crossing, ideal for experienced drivers and adrenalin junkies.
Some recovery gear might be necessary after heavy rains. This section can be avoided, however. Most of the trail meanders along a series of mild inclines and declines and takes you through a beautiful valley between two hills.

The 26-km guided trail is on a nearby farm. It takes you up into the mountain and back along the same route. A diff-lock is useful, but not essential. The trail offers breath-taking views, numerous plant and tree species, and challenging sandstone rock obstacles.
It was created long ago to take a caravan to the shepherd’s hut – and the caravan is still used by the owner today.
Once down the mountain you can stop at Bergwoning’s own Tea Garden before heading back to your comfortable accommodation or taking part in one of the many activities on offer.

WHY I LOVED IT
“I loved this trail because of the stunning scenery and the hospitality of Thys and his wife.” Danie Vorster

WHERETO STAY
Accommodation:
There is a variety of fully equipped self-catering units.
Crowther House, with its lovely wooden deck to watch the sunset, sleeps 14. Mickey’s Finn Cottage sleeps six.
Stonefly Cottage sleeps two with a view of the trout dam.

Camping:
There is shaded camping next to the dam, with electricity, a communal kitchen and good ablutions with showers.

WHAT ELSE
Yearning for some real adventure? Bergwoning has it all.
Activities range from bird watching, horse riding, fly fishing and dune-bug rides to clay pigeon shooting, abseiling, mountain biking and more.
Bergwoning specialises in professional hunting safaris.
Clarens and Golden Gate and various other interesting places to visit are close by.

SPECIALIST PACKING

• Swimming costume and sunscreen in summer.
• Rain jacket for the well-known thunderstorms.
• Basic recovery kit, pruning shears and a tyre gauge.
• Warm clothing and plenty of hot chocolate are essential in winter!
• Also make sure that your binoculars and cameras are packed.

THE COST
Trails R75 pv
Day vistors R300 pv
Accommodation R150 pp.
Camping R60 pp (children under 12 less 50%) .
Cost for other activities available on request.

WHY GO THERE

• Great family weekend
• Good accommodation
• Many activities on offer
• Great mountain scenery
• Malaria free