Holhoek Hiking Trail

Near Paul Roux, Free State Province

Holhoek Trail is situated near the picturesque small Eastern Free State town of Paul Roux. It is approximately 310km from Johannesburg and 230km from Bloemfontein. The area has a rich historical and archeological importance being the site of much San rock art, some of which may date back 25,000 years.

         
 

The Trail

The two day figure of eight trail traverses a variety of terrains including mountain tops, sandstone krans, kloofs and valleys. The beauty of the Eastern Free State comes to life as you you walk this trail.

  
 
         
 
  The first day of the trail is 13km long and the second day is 7km. The trail can be graded as moderate and suitable for most people.  
         
 

The trail was designed and constructed by Tiaan Strydom of Discovery Trails. There are several ladders and bridges to cross along the way and the paths have been cut back to enable ease of walking.

  
 
         
 
 

Basecamp consists of two thatched huts situated close to a dam. The huts accommodate 24 people and have electricity. Ablutions consist of 5 flush toilets and showers with hot water.  There is a lapa with braai facilities, a kitchen with a gas fridge, hot plate, pots, pan and kettle. Wood can be purchased for the fire.

 
         
 

In one of the caves there are two huts built against the back wall. These are reported to be more than 200 years old.

  
 
         
 
  There are a number of streams that flow briskly during the summer rainy season. On the 2nd day the trail passes a cave that was once used as a shelter by the mother of former South African President P W Botha during the Boer War.  
         
 

Please do not touch the San (Bushman) paintings as just the touch can lead to decay of these protected items of our country's heritage.

 
 
         
 
 

Paraplegic Hiking Trail

Holhoek also has a 4,3km wheelchair friendly hiking trail. The facilities at the overnight accommodation have also been adapted to cater for wheelchairs. The trail goes up to a waterfall.

  

 
         
 

Conclusion

A lot of thought and effort has gone into this trail. It is a trail that will appeal to the many hikers who like the ease of walking on developed paths. The wheelchair friendly trail is something this country lags behind many countries in developing. Well done to the owners and Tiaan Strydom for the foresight in developing such a trail.

  
 

'In a Nutshell'

Distance from nearest town The turnoff to Holhoek is at the Paul Roux signboard at the entry to the town. Follow the direction marker boards from here
Access road status The access road is reasonable although the last stretch within the Holhoek farm property is quite rutted and care needs to be taken
Trail type Two circular trails from a central hut
Difficulty Moderate. There are some ladders that could cause problems for people with a fear of heights.
Marking Well marked when last assessed
GPS Co-ordinates Turnoff N5 onto S224       S28 17.565 E27 58.035

Overnight camp                S28 25.129 E28 02.025
Cell phone reception Normally at camp
Facilities Luxurious and well maintained camp. Paraplegic facilities

 

Bookings

Bookings for the Holhoek Trail can be made through

Jacana Travel Marketing and Reservations

 

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Telephone  0861Jacana (0861 522262)

Direct phone: Port Elizabeth 041 378 1439

Pretoria: 012 803 9109

Direct fax: PE 041 378 2548

Pretoria: 012 803 4144

 PE e-mail  bookings@jacanacollection.co.za

Pretoria e-mail: rosa@jacanacollection.co.za

 

 

Footprint Hiking Club

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