Bearded and Cape Vultures
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Start your hike at the Cavern (pick up a map at reception) and head for the pimple on the ridge line behind the resort. From the Cavern’s top gate, take the path to the right. In spring time, look out for clumps of Barleria monticola, which has an attractive mauve flower. The path continues straight up the slope and is well signposted. When you reach the sandstone ridge (you’ll be puffing a bit, as the going is vertical), the path leads into the craggy Sugar Loaf Gap.
Once out on top of the plateau, the views back down the valley are sublime. At this point, take note of any marker that identifies the route back through the gap for your return journey. The path bends to the left and leads to the summit of Sugar Loaf. Keep an eye out for vultures, both bearded (lammergeyer) and Cape, which often soar above the loaf.
The Cavern: How to Get There
Travelling up the N3 from Durban, take the R74 through Winterton, Bergville, and on towards Harrismith. About 29 kilometres beyond Bergville, turn left towards the Northern Drakensberg. After six kilometres (just after the Tower of Pizza), turn right at the sign to The Cavern. The resort lies at the end of this 10 kilometre tarred road.
By Justin Fox