The details
Groot Winterhoek Wilderness is part of the Cape Fold Belt and has various hiking trails of all levels.
The Groot Winterhoek conservation area protects mountain fynbos, including various rare, threatened and endemic species like the Tulbagh powderpuff. A large variety of red disas flower along the streams in January and February. As such, to lessen the environmental impact of numerous visitors and hikers, the area is divided into two user-zones: Kliphuis and Perdevlei in the east, and De Tronk and Die Hel (pictured) in the south. The trails do not have route markers, but small cairns show directions where trails lead over plate rock.
As Groot Winterhoek is a wilderness area, hikers do not have to stick to trails. They can explore the area’s rock formations and caves, and overnight in the veld. Hikers must leave their vehicles at the parking area at the office complex. Permits can be bought through CapeNature Central Reservations and must be carried at all times.