Nowhere in the world will you be able to hike a trail that appeals to many senses at once. For avid hikers, the Shipwreck trail in the idyllic area of Struisbaai is a paradise. The trail highlights shipwrecks from the early 1600s and later years. You can witness history in motion as you navigate this unforgettable trail.
What makes the Shipwreck Trail so unique?
With over 120 recorded shipwreck cases, you would think sailors would have taken the hint years ago. The last known shipwreck to have occurred was The Onibe which happened on 16 October 1992. To put into perspective how lengthy the shipwrecks have been, the first recorded one was Joanna in June 1682. Joanna sank approximately 10km from the beginning point of the Shipwreck Trail at Quoin point. A long 53,6 km later, the trail ends at Arniston, aptly named after a ship that sank there on 31 May 1815.
How does the hiking experience differ from other trails?
The Shipwreck Trail can be tailored to suit your hiking abilities. The difficulty level is classified as being a level 1 and you can choose between the entire 4 day trail or a 1 day all-or-nothing blow out. The 1 day trail offers the chance to see highlights of the trail. During the 4-5 day hike accommodation will be provided at the same place every night. The duration of the hike each day is not very long and only a light snack is needed to keep your energy levels up. All your breakfasts, lunch, dinners and snacks will be provided.
A journey in 4 parts
On the first day of your hike, expect to see some wonderful birdlife in their natural habitat all through Suiderstrand. The peaceful beaches beg for you to dive in and this is especially encouraged on blistering hot days, so you can cool off during your walk. Hikers should get through 10,8km on day one.
Day two of the hike is split into equal parts. You will cover 5,5km in the first half from Suiderstrand to the Southernmost Tip of Africa. Exploring this area will take a further 8,3km to Struisbaai.
Day three sees hikers travelling from Struisbaai to the accommodation base of De Mond. Loosely translated to "The Mouth'' of the river, this 14 km long, flat walk is along a white, sandy beach and comes to an end at De Mond Nature Reserve.
On the fourth and final day, hikers have the option to choose between two different routes to end the trail. The first option will have you exploring the Waenhuiskrans Cave from Arniston. This takes up a distance of 5,5km and is relatively easy if the tide is on your side. The second option sees you walking the scenic route from De Mond to Arniston, covering a distance of 15km. This is the more intense option and is recommended if you want a bit of a challenge to end off the trail.
Making memories in Struisbaai
Once you arrive at the start of the Shipwreck Trail, you can relax with a sundowner in hand and soak in the wonders of Struisbaai. After your hike is over and you need some R&R of a different kind, book a spa day at Ocean Aesthetics Wellness and Beauty. This modern treatment facility offers massages, facials, haircare, waxing and more so you can restore yourself from the inside out.
From hiking to enjoying the brilliance of the ocean and living in an area that is famed for almost storybook shipwrecks, Struisbaai is a town that you can be proud to call home. Seeff has a range of in-demand properties in Struisbaai that have your name written in the sand. Contact one of our valued property practitioners today to set up a viewing.