Magnificent Highmoor at Aasvoel Cave – highmoor weekend trip

Our latest Amblers weekend away took us back to the beautiful Highmoor area, where the planned 18 km hike was trimmed to a very manageable 16 km, making for a relaxed and enjoyable outing for everyone.

As always, Highmoor delivered exceptional value in magnificent surroundings. We settled into our spacious accommodation, lit the braai and fire pit, and enjoyed a peaceful evening beside the pine forest and tranquil lake. With the sun setting, the fire glowing, and steaks sizzling on the braai, it was the perfect start to the weekend.

Saturday’s hike began with the familiar climb up to View Rock, where we were rewarded with sweeping views over the broad valley and its impressive lake. After taking in the scenery, we continued along the contour path, through sections of forest road, jeep track, and newly burned firebreak. The route offered easy walking in places, but also a few memorable challenges, including a steep scramble up towards the contour path near Aasvoël Cave.

The area around the caves and waterfalls was once again a highlight. We enjoyed lunch in peaceful surroundings, with beautiful rock formations, cascading water, and three caves to explore. An attempt to follow the river downstream provided some exciting scrambling and a wonderful sense of adventure, although a large waterfall eventually forced us to turn back and return by a safer route.

The day also gave us an unexpected reminder of the importance of hiking together as a group. We witnessed hunting dogs and their handlers moving through the area near a troop of baboons, which created a potentially dangerous situation. It was a clear example of why hikers should remain with the group and follow the agreed route for everyone’s safety.

Back at our accommodation, hot tea and carrot cake were waiting, followed by a relaxed evening around the dining room table and a warm fire. As always, the conversation soon turned to the day’s adventures and the many possibilities for future exploration in this remarkable area.

Sunday brought a shorter leg-stretcher to the local bush sawmill, where we were kindly allowed access. We spent time looking at the saws, timber stacks, waste piles, and old timber-processing vehicles before returning to our comfortable base for tea, carrot cake, and a final leftover lunch.

It was a magnificent weekend of hiking, exploring, good company, fireside conversation, and surprisingly luxurious comfort. Highmoor once again proved to be a very special destination, and we hope to return for another Amblers adventure soon.