Holhoek
7 – 9th May 2010
By Derek Jones
Brian & Jill Strappini, Dan & Lorraine Lategan, Eileen Ritchie, Dion Westphal, Sally Jones, John Meyer, Gretta & Derek(scribe) Jones
We all had easy, uneventful trips down to the farm which is 20kms south of Paul Roux in the Free State. The weather forecast was for a small chance of rain so we were all prepared for wet weather and cold. Well, who could have wished for milder weather in the Free State in early winter, it was superb!
 Dion and Eileen, who were the first to arrive, told us about the interesting relationship between two of the farm animals – a horse and an ostrich! They followed each other around the farmyard until eventually they came to the dam which is right opposite our camp. The ostrich decided that it was time to cool off, waded into the water, had a water bath splashing with its wings and then proceeded to have a swim! The horse stayed on the bank and patiently waited for the ostrich while it was swanning along around the dam with its neck bent forward – just like a swan! Believe it or not! Just watch Dion’s video clip!
On Friday evening we checked the Visitors Book to find an entry made 3 weeks earlier, warning of broken ladders and dangerous spikes which had injured 4 of their group. The entry included a drop of blood on the page to reinforce their feelings about the hazards of the trail. So, yours truly was faced with aborting the hike or taking some precautions (I took a ski rope normally used for car towing, just in case. Not much of a precaution but it seemed to be reassuring to some).
With a bit of trepidation we sallied (no pun intended Sally!) forth early on Saturday with packed lunches and rain gear as it started out a bit overcast. The first two bridges over the stream seemed to confirm the dire message in the Visitors Book as they were a bit wonky but did not present any problem. That was the worst we had, as many of the ladders and bridges were new or recently repaired and the only broken bits were 4 water bars anchored to the rocks to improve footing for climbing the rocks. The trail was cleared of grass and bush and is in good condition.
 Halfway through that first day the highlights started with Bushman paintings, interesting caves, expansive views and some challenging ladders and bridges. Those who were there for the first time were rather impressed and a remark was made that, if nothing more happened that weekend the trip there had been worth it. Fortunately there were new discoveries round every corner – this trail was really well designed. The sun shone most of the day, with a few thick clouds in between and a couple of light drizzle showers. The Saturday hike ended with a rather daunting descent down a series of ladders from the top of Rory’s Rock and a short walk to the camp.
On Saturday evening we braaied and then relaxed around the fire which was well-tended by our pyromaniac, John Meyer. We had great difficulty, however, in keeping everyone by the fire until Chairman’s Bedtime, which for those of you who do not know, is 9 o’clock! This unwritten rule was introduced by our very first chairman and founder member, the late Ron Cramer. Sitting out around a fire in winter makes for good, tough hikers!.
 Day two is short in distance, 7kms, but again has its unique attractions such as Botha’s Cave, fern gardens and interesting rock formations. Holhoek is a great weekend basecamp, as it is so interesting and, although not easy, is suitable for any moderate hiker. This is a hike that every new member should do as it has so much to offer for the effort, in terms of variety, rock formations, views and all within 4 hours travel from home!
Some mention must be made of the accommodation, as it is comfortable and well equipped. This time we stayed in the main (downstairs) dormitory which has curtains around every bed and lights above the beds. (This dormitory was originally intended for paraplegics). The kitchen has two fridges, two gas ranges and enormous pots and teapot. Just a word of warning – take your own loo paper!
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