Rated as one of the top things to do in Plettenberg Bay, South Africa, hiking Robberg Peninsula is probably one of the most popular and well-known trails in the area as well as one of the most scenic. Robberg, which is situated eight kilometres south of Plettenberg Bay, is part of the acclaimed Garden Route. It is not only a nature reserve but also a national monument and World Heritage Site.
Those of you who are geology buffs or just interested in the subject will be completely captivated by the rocks waiting to be discovered along the trail. There are rocks in this region that date back 120 million years to the break-up of Gondwanaland and evidence of middle and later Stone Age inhabitation has been found in a few of the caves along the peninsula.
What to expect along your trail-hiking journey
The hike along the Robberg Peninsula is not something you should do if you just feel like going for a relaxing stroll. The trail is 9,2 km long and will take around four to five hours to complete. You can expect to climb up and down a rocky coastline as a part of your trip so it is not a trail for anyone of any age.
The route is a circular trail along the Robberg Peninsula with two shorter variations available ranging from easy to moderate. Along your journey, you may come across bird species like Cape Robins, Cape white-eyes, red-winged starlings and orange-breasted Sunbirds to name but a few.
Some of the marine life seen along the trails include a colony of seals, dolphins, whales and even Orcas have been spotted in the Bay. So be sure to take your binoculars!
One of the most magical aspects of the trail and possibly the reason for its popularity is the ever-changing scenery. Every 15 to 20 minutes of the hike you can expect the terrain and views to change almost completely, making this one of the most incredible hiking trails you will ever discover.
The nitty-gritty of hiking the Robberg Peninsula in Plettenberg Bay
When going hiking anywhere, there are a few steps to follow to ensure a beautiful day is had without any hiccups. Here are a few guidelines to help you on your hike.
- Make sure that you plan ahead, pack some snacks and bottles of water.
- Stick to the trail and do not wander off.
- Properly dispose of any waste you bring in and see along the trail.
- Leave areas as you found them.
- Minimise campfire impacts.
- Be considerate of other hikers.
- Never approach or feed the wildlife.
As the hiking trail is through a reserve enchanted by the natural wonders of the world, you unfortunately would not be able to take your four-legged friends with you on your journey. You wouldn't want to scare the wildlife away.
This hiking trail is a wonderful way to spend the day and it is not going to cost you an arm and a leg. The entry fee for admission into the park is only R50 for adults and R30 for children.
Inspiring and truly one of a kind, you will definitely want to add hiking the Robberg Penisula to your to-do list.
Hiking the Robberg Peninsula and the area that surrounds it
Plettenberg Bay has so much to offer its residents and visitors alike. The area is the perfect place for those wanting to leave the hustle and bustle of city life and live like they're on holiday every day. A tranquil environment with an abundance of nature and attractions, Plettenberg Bay is an ideal place to live. Whether you are looking to relocate or invest, Seeff has a wide variety of homes available near Robberg Peninsula and other amenities you love. If you would like to know more or simply wish to browse, contact one of our property practitioners today.