Overnight hike – Galpin Hut
Galpin Hut is +/- a 2 hour hike from Fernkloof Nature Reserve in Hermanus. It sleeps 4 but for some reason Mike, Ania and I could not find another gullible person to join us in our mid-winter sleep-over on the mountain.
Planning:
Contact: Peter Coxall.
Telephone no: 082 570 3403.
E-mail: pcoxall@mweb.co.za
Getting there:
Drive through Hermanus in the direction of Stanford and turn left into Fir Road and then follow the signs to Fernkloof Nature Reserve.
Cost:
R300 per night and it sleeps 4 people
Amenities:
If you are looking for luxurious or even basic accommodation for that matter – this is not for you. If you like adventures and are fit enough to carry all your stuff in a backpack up a mountain for 2 hours, then go for it. There is an eco toilet, a rain tank (not sure how much water there will be in summer), 2 bunk beds (sleeps 4), table, 2 stools, a bench outside, cleaning equipment. There is no fire place but the Gulpin hut has the best views imaginable. You can see from Hangklip to Stanford.
The hike:
According to the information guide, it takes 2 hours to hike to the hut. We did it in 1,5 hours including a detour to the waterfall and stops to admire the views. It is mostly uphill and there is no scrambling involved.
What to pack:
Trash bag (always remove your own rubbish), head torch, candles, matches, gas stove, pot, crockery and cutlery, sleeping bag, pillow case (there are old pillows), warm clothes, rain wear, slops, toilet paper, cards or games, wine, drinking water, snacks, food, toiletries, washing up liquid, dish cloth, waterproof bag, battery pack.
Visit our blog for other hikes around Cape Town.
