Pulse quickening, eyes wide, lips trembling, Randolene Jonkers steps forward and flies across treetops and dams.

Have you ever visited a place that exceeded expectations? So much so that you almost have to be dragged away kicking and screaming. That’s what happened when we visited Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort.

Tensions melt away leaving Cape Town behind to pass through wheat fields dotted with Blue Cranes and snow brushed peaks of the Winterhoek. The road finally climbs Piekenierskloof passing through the neck that splits the Olifantsrivier Mountains. Built in the mid-1800s the pass separates the Swartland from the mineral-rich lands to the north. With Citrusdal and Sneeuberg ahead take a right to enter Piekenierskloof Lodge Resort which blends into the crook of the Cederberg mountains.

Views over Citrusdal and Sneeuberg in the Cederberg mountains

Have you ever visited a place that exceeded expectations?

The magic begins as you enter the thatch building to be warmly greeted by friendly staff. Offered a welcome drink we chose cocktails drunk on the deck above a swimming pool and awesome views. Our comfy suite was part of the hotel and has all the comforts of home. The bedroom opens onto a shady patio and secluded section of the immaculate garden. Prolific birdlife is attracted to plants that are mostly indigenous.

The bedroom opens onto a shady patio and a secluded section of the immaculate garden

Accommodation ranges from self-catering chalets to luxurious rooms overlooking the mountain or valley.

Thatched accommodation in spacious grounds.

Having settled in we wasted no time and booked for the zipline. Fitted with harnesses and helmets we met Randolene and Cedric Jonkers. They had taken a break from the rat race to try their hands at adventures. They were on their way to somewhere else when they noticed the zipline, stopped, gave it a go. And they were not disappointed, and neither were we. Randolene’s fear vanished as she floated through the air like the black eagles that inhabit these mountains. “I could do this all day,” she giggled.

There are seven ziplines, some are faster than others. They zigzag down the Piekenierskloof Pass crossing the original road that Thomas Bain built. Bain named the pass after Sir George Grey, (hence Grey’s Pass). It was rebuilt to a more comfortable gradient in 1958. The new pass reverted to its original name – Piquenierskloof which was simplified to Piekenierskloof.

Randolene and Cedric Jonkers are equipped with a safety harness and helmet

Fear vanishes as you float through the air

The zip-lining costs R150 for three platforms and R300 for all seven

The zipline consists of a pulley suspended on a cable, mounted on a slope enabling the user to slide from the top to the bottom through gravity

Next morning, up early with the birds, it’s time for a swim. No wonder the outside pool was deserted at that time of the morning. It was a little chilly. Thankfully there is an indoor heated pool. There is also a spa. Breakfast was a feast of fresh food, pastries and plenty of options for vegetarians.

The resorts swimming pool is surrounded by mountains

Breakfast and other meals are served in the spacious restaurant.

Sated and happy we decided to give archery a go. Around 10,000 BC, the Egyptians used bows and arrows for hunting and warfare. Our goal was to hit a round target stuck onto hay bales. Easier said than done. Warren and Beryl Jeftha were on the last of their five day midweek break. Jeftha raised his arm, looked down the length of an arrow and fired. It was his first try at archery and he was thrilled to hit the target.

Archery is R100 for 40 pellets/arrows

Archery is among a variety of adventures on offer at the resort

The goal is to hit a target and not the hay bales.

With time running out we hiked up the mountain behind the resort stopping to take pictures of flowers views and each other.

Take an unguided hike above the resort.

Watch abundant birdlife and spot many flowers in season on the hiking trail

Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort also has a mountain bike trail tour – next time. For the less energetic, it’s a short drive to Bergendal for a tour at Carmién Tea to learn about Rooibos, or Red Bush as it’s known in other parts of the world. At the resort, children are not forgotten. They can play putt-putt, table tennis, outdoor chess, climb a jungle gym, a games room, jump on trampolines or run around the extensive gardens and lush rolling lawns.

Accommodation ranges from self-catering chalets to luxurious rooms overlooking the mountain or valley. Some of the suites are wheelchair-friendly and there are conference facilities also suitable for weddings and functions.

Call 022 921 3574 or email [email protected]   www.piekenierskloof.co.za

For zipline bookings in pre-scheduled time slots, give at least one days notice by contacting Natasha at 022 921 3574. Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort is also ideally located for you to head out on one of five West Coast Way’s self-drive Berg Route – with the most twists – to explore the surrounding area.

Facilities available at Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort

• Accommodation • Child-Friendly • Bar • Restaurant (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner) • Outdoor Pool • Indoor Heated Pool • Wheelchair Accessibility (Chalets 9 & 16, Hotel Room 217) • 4 Star Tourism Grading • Trip Advisor • Conference Facilities • Wedding and Function Venue • Tuck Shop • Un-Guided Nature Walks • Online Booking Facilities

Distance from Cape Town: 169km
Where: On the N7
Open 7 days a week | Free entry
R100/person for archery (40 pellets)
Contact: Reservations +27 (0)22 921 3574  or email [email protected]

Karen Watkins started out as a travel writer and photographer supplying articles for numerous newspapers and magazines including Indiwe, Country Life, Go, Good Taste and others. Joined Independent Newspapers Limited in 2007 to work one year with Special Projects writing marketing copy before joining the Constantiaberg Bulletin as a multi-media journalist writing news and taking pictures until May 2019. And now she is writing for West Coast Way

West Coast Way is Your Route To Nature

West Coast Way is your ultimate gateway to experiencing the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Cape West Coast of South Africa. As a premium tourism brand, we offer six uniquely themed trip plans that promise an unforgettable journey: Cape, Culture, Foodie, Tractor, Berg, and Wild.

Discover over 101 incredible things to see and do with West Coast Way: Savour the delights of wine, craft beer, olives, and Rooibos tea tastings. Indulge in authentic Weskus cuisine and the traditional braaivleis (barbecue). Feel the thrill of swinging into Citrusdal on a zipline or challenge yourself with Cederberg bouldering. Rejuvenate in natural warm pools and embark on serene cruises across lagoons and rivers. Explore the diverse landscapes of nature reserves and a National Park, or embark on exciting game drives. Hone your skills in archery and angling, or amp up the excitement with sandboarding and quad-biking. Enjoy horse riding, immerse yourself in the unique San culture, and experience the vibrant Riel dancing. For water sports enthusiasts, kite- and windsurfing, surfing, and kayaking trips await. Go beach hopping, learn about bees and whales, and delight in birdwatching in a twitcher’s paradise – all within South Africa’s renowned wildflower reserve. For more information on the best places to visit on the West Coast, road tripping routes, hikes, tours, and trails, explore westcoastway.co.za or call West Coast Way on 0861 321 777.  Follow us on  on Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn @WestCoastWaySA.